Founded by Cynthia Lu and Pharrell Williams in 2015, CPFM started as an Etsy store selling hand-painted vintage clothing. Today, it has evolved into a full-fledged fashion brand, renowned for its unique collaborations with other heavyweights in the fashion industry, including Nike, Converse, and Stussy, among others.
CPFM’s clothing is unique in that it combines contemporary streetwear with psychedelic influences reminiscent of the 1960s and 70s. The brand’s clothing bears bright, bold colors, and patterns that are eye-catching and unconventional.
One of the most significant factors contributing to CPFM’s success is its collaborations with other brands, which have led to the creation of some truly unique and coveted pieces. One of the most notable collaborations was with Nike, which saw CPFM re-imagine the Air Vapormax silhouette. The result was a shoe that featured a “spliced” design, with the CPFM branding on the heel counters, providing a bold and playful take on the classic sneaker.
Another notable collaboration was with clothing brand Stussy, which saw the creation of the “Dolphin Tee.” The shirt featured a cartoon image of a dolphin with the CPFM logo in bold lettering above it. The shirt reflects the brand’s playful and imaginative approach to fashion, which has been a hallmark of CPFM since its inception.
Despite the brand’s recent success, it has remained true to its roots, continuing to create one-of-a-kind pieces hand-painted by Lu herself. The hand-painted items are often characterized by vibrant colors, playful patterns, and the distinctive smiley face or mushroom motif that has become synonymous with the brand. These hand-painted items typically sell out quickly, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars on resale sites.
In addition to its clothing line, CPFM has also collaborated with some major artists to create visually stunning installations for art and music festivals, such as Coachella, ComplexCon, and Camp Flog Gnaw. These installations, like the clothing line, are playful and unconventional, incorporating bright colors, whimsical shapes, and unexpected elements that captivate audiences and draw them in.
In conclusion, Cactus Plant Flea Market has become a rising star in the fashion industry due to its unique and innovative approach to fashion. The brand’s success can be attributed to its ability to seamlessly blend contemporary streetwear with psychedelic and playful influences, often featuring the iconic smiley face or mushroom motif. The brand’s collaborations with other designers and artists have led to some truly one-of-a-kind pieces that have garnered a significant following among fashion enthusiasts worldwide. As the brand continues to evolve and evolve its aesthetic, there is no doubt that its popularity will continue to grow, cementing CPFM’s position as an influential and groundbreaking brand in the fashion world.