LUAR, founded by Dominican-American designer Raul Lopez, has emerged as a defining voice in contemporary fashion. Launched in 2011 and relaunched in 2022 after a hiatus, LUAR (Raul spelled backward) blends Lopez’s Dominican heritage with New York City’s dynamic culture. The brand gained significant attention with the introduction of the Ana bag in 2021, characterized by its distinctive circular handle and boxy silhouette, becoming a symbol of accessible luxury and earning Lopez the 2022 CFDA American Accessories Designer of the Year award. LUAR’s designs often feature exaggerated silhouettes, sculptural shapes, and a fusion of streetwear and high fashion elements, reflecting Lopez’s commitment to inclusivity and challenging traditional fashion norms.
Collaborations have been integral to LUAR’s evolution. In 2023, the brand partnered with jewelry company Mejuri to create a collection that included convertible hoop earrings and a new iteration of the Ana bag, emphasizing customization and self-expression. The same year, LUAR collaborated with Moose Knuckles, introducing a unisex capsule collection featuring reimagined outerwear pieces like the cocoon parka and bomber jacket, blending LUAR’s avant-garde aesthetics with Moose Knuckles’ functional design. Additionally, a partnership with MAC Cosmetics led to the creation of the limited-edition Ana Artistry Bag, merging fashion and beauty in a functional accessory designed for makeup artists and enthusiasts.
LUAR’s relevance in the fashion industry stems from its ability to intertwine personal narrative with broader cultural themes. Lopez’s designs are deeply rooted in his experiences growing up in Brooklyn, drawing inspiration from the city’s diverse communities and his Dominican background. The brand’s collections often explore themes of identity, queerness, and societal norms, as seen in the Fall 2025 collection titled “El Pato,” which reclaims a derogatory term used against queer individuals. Through its bold designs and storytelling, LUAR continues to challenge and redefine the boundaries of fashion, making it a unique and influential presence in the industry.
