Acne Studios

Acne Studios is a multidisciplinary fashion house based in Stockholm, founded in 1996 by Jonny Johansson and a collective of Swedish creatives under the original name Acne Jeans. Johansson, who remains the brand’s creative director, has a background in photography, art and architecture, which has informed the company’s distinct aesthetic. Initially known for unisex denim, Acne quickly expanded into ready‑to‑wear, accessories, shoes and even furniture and publications. The brand’s collections are characterised by meticulous tailoring, eclectic materials and custom‑developed fabrics, often juxtaposing minimalist shapes with unexpected textures and colours.

Acne Studios gained global prominence in the early 2000s when it became a favourite of fashion editors and stylists, leading to boutiques in cities including Paris, Tokyo, New York and Shanghai. Although now part of a larger group, it continues to operate independently with Johansson at the helm.

The label embraces a gender‑fluid approach, offering menswear and womenswear pieces that can be mixed and layered. Its holistic creative output extends beyond clothing into magazines, furniture and exhibitions, underscoring its identity as a cultural platform rather than just a fashion brand. The brand’s evolution reflects a careful balance between heritage and modernity, and its global presence continues to grow as it explores new markets and product categories.

At the heart of Acne Studios lies a commitment to progressive creativity and authenticity. The brand’s ‘Creative Manifesto’ positions creativity as its greatest asset and emphasises that design should respond to pressing social and environmental questions Acne commits to designing for longevity, favouring timeless silhouettes over trend‑driven pieces and using high‑quality materials that wear beautifully.

Acne Studios also embraces inclusivity and self‑expression; collections are gender‑fluid, encouraging wearers to interpret garments in personal ways. The brand’s minimalist yet idiosyncratic aesthetic invites layering, mixing and customization, reflecting Johansson’s belief that fashion should be a creative tool rather than an imposed uniform. Through its manifesto, Acne acknowledges its role as a cultural actor and pledges to act on climate change, champion worker rights and foster innovation.

This holistic philosophy ensures that the house remains not just a producer of clothing but a platform for thoughtful, sustainable creativity. At its core, the brand strives to balance tradition with innovation, embracing inclusivity and sustainability while encouraging personal expression and thoughtful consumption.