Here’s a fashion statement that sticks.
Belgian designer Raf Simons has turned a mundane household product haute by selling custom rolls of duct tape to belt and accessorize fall fashion looks for a whopping $200 per roll.
The designer sent male models down the runway for his Fall/Winter 2017 show in oversized sports coats and jackets synched with the black and white adhesive. The multi-purpose accessory features the words “Walk with me” and “RSYP Youth Project” in bold red letters.
The durable black tape is 2-inches wide and made with polyurethane. But fashionistas who want to DIY can find a standard roll at Walmart for $6.86, or an even more frugal $4 at Home Depot.
Duct tape is hardly the only questionable couture people are actually buying at an astronomical cost. Nordstrom sold out of its heavily distressed jeans with fake mud on them for $425. The site claimed the dirty duds “embody rugged, Americana workwear.” They’re currently hawking paint splattered khakis for $300. And in May, Neiman Marcus sold deconstructed — and seemingly dilapidated — Maison Margiela high top sneakers for $1,425.
The shabby chic trend reached its peak when Balenciaga put out a $2,890.00 cobalt blue shopper bag that was practically an exact replica of the flimsy oversized ones you get at Ikea.
Non-designer folk have used duct tape to make crafty clothing. On Pinterest, one woman made an entire strapless prom dress out of the stuff with purple polka dots using some colorful rolls from Michaels. Others have used the adhesive for accessories like bow ties, headbands, rings and bracelets.