On a buzzing afternoon in East London’s Brick Lane, GenB TV caught up with the founders of Vis la Vie, the Manchester based brand that’s redefining what it means to blend streetwear with community spirit. At the heart of a pop-up event set inside a classic bossman corner shop, Gabe (founder) and Ollie (collaborator) spoke about purpose, place, and the power of keeping things real.
Photos by Alicia Clarke
“We’re in a bossman shop in Shoreditch just showing what we’ve got going on with the brand.”
From the jump, Vis la Vie (“live the life”) isn’t trying to be your average fashion label. It’s more than clothing, it’s about capturing culture, conversation, and community. For Gabe, the brand’s founder, it’s not just about a good graphic tee or hoodie; it’s about where and how those pieces live in real life. That’s why when they got invited to this Brick Lane community event, they said yes without hesitation.
“It’s a big, big event based on community, a lot of diversity, a lot of cool people. We were kindly invited to pop up here.”
And where better to do that than in a corner shop? Not a showroom. Not a sterile retail space. But the local bossman spot, a hub where people from all walks of life cross paths.
“Everyone goes into those bossman shops. You don’t know who you’re going to bump into, it’s about creating community. That’s what most brands are starting to tap into now. It just becomes more relatable.”
Photos by Alicia Clarke
From Manchester to East London: Culture with an Edge
Though the roots of Vis la Vie are firmly in Manchester’s creative scene, particularly in places like the Northern Quarter and Ancoats, the team clearly felt at home in East London.
“London’s pretty brim and proper, but as soon as you come into Brick Lane, it’s that little bit more edgy. It’s authentic. You let go a little bit, you can dress how you want. You can feel more of yourself.”
This authenticity, they say, mirrors the values behind Vis la Vie. While the fashion industry often trends toward hype or exclusivity, this brand leans into effortlessness, connection, and the art of real moments.
“Let’s bring it all together and create some real-life content as well.”
More Than Merch: A Movement in the Making
As the streetwear scene increasingly shifts toward cultural storytelling, brands like Vis la Vie are setting themselves apart not just with aesthetic, but with intent. From Manchester to Shoreditch, they’re building something raw, accessible, and rooted in community.
In a world chasing clout, Vis la Vie is here to live the life, authentically, creatively, and together.
Follow Vis La Vie: @vislavie.uk
Stay tuned to GenB TV for more underground talent and brand stories pushing culture forward.
DOWNLOAD THE GENB TV APP HERE
