At this year’s ComplexCon, the LOSTSHDWS booth wasn’t just a fashion destination; it was a tribute and a time capsule.
Founded by Ship Skylark, LOSTSHDWS returned for its third ComplexCon appearance with WORK, a deeply personal capsule inspired by family, grief, perseverance, and purpose.
“This is my third [ComplexCon],” Ship told Eric Keith, editor-in-chief of The Quintessential Gentleman. “I did Hong Kong, and I did this last year. So it’s my third one. It’s just amazing to be here.”
The WORK capsule is centered around the life and legacy of Ship’s late grandfather, a Caterpillar bulldozer operator whose hard-working spirit shaped the ethos of the brand.
“He passed away, and all he left me was a Carhartt jacket,” Ship shared. “So, I took that and made Carhartt jackets. And now we’re in a cave, with a Bobcat. This whole idea behind it: dedicated to him.”
The booth’s set design reflected that rugged spirit, channeling the dust and grit of construction sites with a luxe fashion lens. It was less a pop-up, more a living installation.
Beyond the aesthetics, WORK is loaded with symbolism. Each tag in the collection features a 1-800 number, a callback to the T9 cell phone Ship’s grandfather gave him as a child. The most poignant detail? A 1-800 number printed on one design that nods to an old suicide-prevention hotline, created in memory of a close friend.
This is what sets LOSTSHDWS apart. It’s not just wearable, it’s a wearable story.
LOSTSHDWS continues to scale. In addition to its ComplexCon showcase, the brand has hit runways in Paris and New York and even made a digital appearance in NBA 2K, solidifying its place at the intersection of streetwear, gaming, and culture.
Celebrity supporters include Mary J. Blige, Chris Brown, NBA YoungBoy, DK Metcalf, Kai Cenat, and more.
And Ship isn’t done. “I’m really looking forward to doing a fashion show in New York for Fashion Week,” he told QG.
We asked Ship what advice he’d give to young Black creatives looking to enter this space. His answer was direct:
“The most cliche thing is everybody says believe in yourself. I think it’s more than that. It’s perseverance, putting the time in, never giving up. There are going to be naysayers. People say don’t do this, don’t do that. Keep doing what you’re doing.”
“Support your homies, support your friends, and build with it. That’s it.”
LOSTSHDWS is a masterclass in how to lead with heart and still win in hype culture. It honors the past, speaks to the present, and helps shape the future.
In a time when fashion can feel hollow, Ship Skylark reminds us that when you build from legacy, the work will always speak.
Check out the full interview.
