Corey Doctorow & NOTANON’s Geminiimatt @ HOPE XV
NOTANON Shines at HOPE 2024: A Celebration of Hacker Culture and High Fashion
FLUSHING, New York – Ever wondered what happens when high fashion meets the hacker underground? At the recent HOPE conference, NOTANON unveiled the answer, and it’s as stylish as it is subversive.
This past summer, NOTANON made waves at the 15th Hackers On Planet Earth (HOPE) conference, held from July 12-14, 2024, at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. Amid the electric atmosphere of this iconic hacker gathering, NOTANON’s booth became a magnet for attendees curious about the intersection of hacker culture and high fashion.
For three days, NOTANON founder Geminiimatt and the hackers behind the designs—d_elixir, li5a, and 1J—welcomed thousands of visitors, introducing them to the brand’s unique vision. They shared the story of NOTANON’s origins, showcasing exclusive, one-of-a-kind designs that left attendees both intrigued and inspired.
HOPE: The Perfect Stage for NOTANON
HOPE, a cornerstone of the hacker community since 1994, is renowned for its vibrant mix of creativity, innovation, and advocacy. Known for hosting thought-provoking speakers, hands-on workshops, and a variety of cultural events, the conference has long been a meeting ground for hackers, technologists, and curious minds from across the globe. This year, NOTANON’s presence added a fresh dimension to the event, blending artistry and activism in a way that resonated deeply with the HOPE audience.
A Booth with a Mission
The NOTANON team set up shop amidst the hustle and bustle of the conference, crafting a space that stood out with its bold, boundary-pushing designs. Each garment on display was a testament to the brand’s philosophy: a collaboration between hackers and designers, where every piece tells a story of individuality and defiance.
“It was incredible to see the reaction to our designs,” said Geminiimatt. “HOPE attendees immediately understood what we were about—challenging stereotypes about hackers and celebrating individuality through fashion. It felt like we had found our people.”
Visitors were drawn not only to the striking visuals but also to the ethos behind the brand. Geminiimatt and the team passionately shared NOTANON’s commitment to hacktivist causes, its use of sustainable materials, and its dedication to creating limited-edition wearable art.
“Talking to conference-goers who truly get the hacker mindset was an unforgettable experience,” said d_elixir. “We connected over shared values: creativity, resistance, and a drive to push boundaries.”
A Show-Stopping Collection
The designs on display reflected NOTANON’s commitment to uniqueness and storytelling. From avant-garde jackets that blended streetwear and tech aesthetics to graphic tees that nodded to hacker lore, each piece sparked conversation and admiration. Attendees were particularly excited about the limited-edition nature of the collection, understanding the value of garments that are as exclusive as they are meaningful.
An attendee who identified as a ‘crypto-anarchist’ was immediately drawn to a waist bag that cleverly mimicked a NYC shopping bag, complete with the words ‘Hack You’ in place of the expected ‘Thank You’. The bag had a hidden pocket designed to hold hacker hardware like a Flipper Zero or Raspberry Pi. ‘This is more than just clothing,’ he remarked, ‘it’s gear for the revolution.'”
More Than Clothes: A Movement
NOTANON’s participation at HOPE wasn’t just about showcasing apparel—it was about connecting with a community that shares the brand’s mission. By dedicating a portion of proceeds to hacktivist causes and committing to sustainable practices, NOTANON struck a chord with an audience that values action as much as aesthetics.
As the conference wrapped up, it was clear that NOTANON had left an impression. Attendees walked away not just with new additions to their wardrobe but with a sense of having discovered a brand that speaks their language—the language of creativity, defiance, and authenticity.
Looking Ahead
With the success of the HOPE popup, NOTANON has cemented its place at the crossroads of fashion and hacker culture. For those who couldn’t attend, the team hinted at more exciting drops and events in the pipeline. One thing is certain: NOTANON isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement.
As the echoes of HOPE fade, the impact of NOTANON’s message lingers. More than just clothing, it’s a statement of individuality, a commitment to activism, and a glimpse into the future of fashion where style and substance intertwine. Stay tuned, the revolution has just begun.
Stay tuned, and as always, stay true to authentic you.
