For MI Leggett, the creative force behind the New York City-based label Official Rebrand, the true test of a garment isn’t found on a runway, but on the dance floor. “If it’s not working at a rave, it’s not really going to work in everyday life,” Leggett explains. Their design philosophy centers on the intersection of high-energy utility and environmental consciousness, ensuring that every piece is as functional for a long night of dancing as it is for a quiet afternoon at the library.
Leggett’s approach to fashion is deeply rooted in upcycling. By sourcing materials from surplus corporate swag and overproduced merchandise, the brand transforms discarded items into versatile, trans-seasonal collections. Their latest project, palimpsest, exemplifies this ethos, blending prep-school aesthetics with the inventive, fluid nature of modern nightlife attire. The goal is simple: to create garments that eliminate the need for excessive consumption by serving multiple contexts seamlessly.
Leggett’s journey into the fashion world was heavily influenced by their time in Berlin, where they first engaged with queer nightlife culture. This background remains a cornerstone of their practice, leading to collaborations with local New York institutions like the Queer Nightlife Community Center (QNCC). By providing a space for artists and nightlife workers to gather, the QNCC has become a vital hub for Leggett’s creative process, allowing them to craft bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces directly for the community they serve.
When asked about the visual language of the brand, Leggett notes that they avoid traditional mood boards, preferring to draw inspiration from the urban environment—specifically the unique, hand-painted trash cans found throughout New York City. This organic approach to design, combined with a commitment to material availability, ensures that each collection feels authentic to the moment.
I think that we’re all our best versions of ourselves when we’re expressing ourselves and presenting ourselves the way that makes us feel the most like ourselves. —MI LEGGETT
Ultimately, Leggett’s work is about empowerment. By turning discarded materials into wearable art, they are not only addressing the environmental impact of the fashion industry but also providing a canvas for self-expression. As they continue to build deep roots in the Ridgewood community, Leggett remains dedicated to the idea that sustainable fashion can be both radical and deeply personal.
