The Rise of Trapstar London: From Underground Roots to Global Hype

Trapstar London began its journey in the heart of West London, emerging from the underground scene as a brand that represented more than just fashion—it embodied a movement. Founded by childhood friends Mikey, Lee, and Will in the early 2000s, Trapstar quickly earned a reputation for blending gritty street aesthetics with a refined sense of urban luxury. The name “Trapstar” itself draws from the juxtaposition of two worlds: the trap—a nod to street culture—and the star—signifying aspiration and success.

The founders launched the label with guerrilla-style marketing tactics. Designs were sold out of car trunks, and exclusivity was everything. As word spread, Trapstar apparel became a symbol of status among London’s youth. Worn by influential figures in music, sports, and film, the brand quickly became a cornerstone of British streetwear culture.

Trapstar's Signature Style and Influence

The visual language of Trapstar London is unmistakable. Combining bold graphics, military-inspired silhouettes, and cryptic slogans such as “It’s a Secret”, the brand invokes curiosity and exclusivity. The Trapstar Shooters jacket, one of the brand’s most iconic items, has cemented its place in streetwear history with its oversized fit, detachable hoods, and heavily-branded sleeves.

Trapstar’s design philosophy leans on powerful visual statements. Red and black colorways, oversized logos, and armor-like details create a distinctive look that resonates across cultural lines. With designs that balance street toughness with aspirational luxury, Trapstar appeals to fashion-forward youth and hip-hop royalty alike.

The brand's success is rooted not just in its aesthetic, but also in its storytelling. Each collection feels like a narrative chapter, representing both personal expression and collective identity. Trapstar doesn’t just sell clothes—it sells an experience and a lifestyle.

The Impact of Trapstar Shooters: A Cultural Staple

The Trapstar Shooters jacket is not just an item of clothing—it’s a cultural statement. It rose to prominence in London’s drill and grime scenes, becoming a uniform among artists, fans, and youth who see fashion as a form of resistance and identity. Worn by celebrities like Rihanna, Stormzy, ASAP Rocky, and Dave, the Shooters line has become internationally recognized.

Its appeal lies in its fusion of utility and bold design. The jacket’s multi-pocket construction, sleek lines, and oversized fit channel both urban readiness and high-end edge. With regular limited drops, the Shooters collection drives demand through scarcity, adding to its cultural cachet.

Trapstar’s Shooters collection also includes track sets, hoodies, t-shirts, and accessories that maintain the same design ethos—minimalist yet intimidating, clean yet powerful. Each piece serves a dual purpose: fashion and function, protection and performance, style and statement.

Celebrity Endorsements & Collaborations: Fueling the Trapstar Legacy

Trapstar's rise to global prominence was fueled by strategic collaborations and high-profile endorsements. One of the brand’s pivotal moments was when Rihanna was spotted wearing a custom Trapstar piece in 2012. Shortly after, Jay-Z’s Roc Nation took an interest in the brand, and in 2013, Trapstar signed a partnership with Roc Nation, becoming one of the few British streetwear labels with direct ties to an American entertainment powerhouse.

Collaborations with brands like PUMA, Nike, and even Netflix’s Top Boy series have continued to push the brand’s creative limits. These partnerships allow Trapstar to merge its core identity with mainstream platforms while maintaining authenticity.

The Top Boy x Trapstar collection, in particular, blurred the lines between fashion and entertainment. It connected fans of the show with the culture of the streets it depicted, making Trapstar not just a wardrobe choice but a cultural bridge.

Trapstar in the Music Industry: A Visual Soundtrack

Trapstar is deeply embedded in music culture. The brand has become a go-to for UK rap, drill, and grime artists who use fashion as a form of lyrical extension. The Trapstar Shooters jacket and other Trapstar pieces frequently appear in music videos, freestyles, live performances, and album covers.

Artists like Skepta, Headie One, Central Cee, and Bugzy Malone have all donned Trapstar fits, cementing the brand’s presence in the sonic and visual lexicon of UK rap. In this way, Trapstar is more than apparel—it becomes a uniform of resistance, pride, and status.

The connection to music isn't accidental. Trapstar has always marketed itself through culture, not traditional advertising. By organically aligning with the music scene, Trapstar stays culturally relevant and always in demand.

The Trapstar Lifestyle: More Than Just Clothing

Trapstar is not just a brand—it’s a lifestyle. It represents resilience, ambition, and the ability to rise from the underground and claim space at the top. Fans of Trapstar aren’t merely customers; they are part of a global community that values authenticity, exclusivity, and expression.

The brand’s slogans, such as “It’s A Secret” and “Believe In The Unknown”, speak to a generation that values meaning behind the aesthetic. Wearing Trapstar isn’t about fashion alone—it’s about belonging to a mindset that challenges the mainstream while striving for success.

Trapstar's presence is now global, with fans in New York, Tokyo, Paris, and Berlin proudly representing the brand. Yet, it still maintains its London DNA, staying true to the streets that gave it birth.

How Trapstar Redefined Urban Fashion Worldwide

Trapstar’s influence reaches far beyond the UK. As the world’s appetite for authentic street culture grows, Trapstar has become a blueprint for independent brands wanting to scale globally while staying true to their roots.

By owning its narrative, embracing exclusivity, and forming deep connections with music, film, and art, Trapstar stands as a cultural powerhouse. It defies the norms of high fashion while simultaneously shaping them.

The Shooters line, in particular, embodies this defiance. Its militaristic style challenges conventional tailoring, offering instead a vision of street fashion that is both armor and artistry.

What’s Next for Trapstar?

The future of Trapstar is limitless. With growing demand, new collaborations on the horizon, and continuous innovation in design, the brand is poised to dominate both streetwear and high fashion landscapes.

As Trapstar continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: its commitment to the culture. Whether it’s through music, design, or limited edition releases, the brand ensures that every drop feels like an event—an opportunity to be part of something bigger than fashion.