ON YOUR MARK

I remember way back in the day when "racing" was just emerging as a trend in fast fashion. Performers, stylists, icons making an appearance, anyone relevant in the process of establishing that they were 'leading' in the race to disseminate a trend, started branding with motifs that suggested competition, sport, and acceleration. Racing checks are one of those printed details. Since 2012, I've been collecting checkered garments -- a Chevrolet brand snapback, a Dupont NASCAR jacket, a sponsored Budweiser coat, a Fox BMX jersey, the list (and race) goes on. The top I'm wearing here is borderline costume -- made of an elastic, lycra/polyester/spandex hybrid -- and looks...