If you've been living under a ...ROC... for the past month, there has been a great deal of bad press surrounding the release of Jay Z's line. Recently, two African American youngsters were racially profiled while shopping in Barneys New York and were accused of using stolen credit cards to purchase thousands of dollars worth of merchandise. The allegations against the teens later proved to be false. The rapper's silent reaction to the situation has infuriated fans and other media outlets who demanded that Jay Z cut ties with the high end retailer, and cancel the launch of the line. Representatives on behalf of Barneys insist that the officers that detained the shoppers were from the NYPD, and are completely unaffiliated with the department store's security staff. Since the incident, Jay Z has decided that 100% of the Shawn Carter Collection proceeds collected from November 20 - January 3 will now go to the Shawn Carter foundation, which provides scholarships for college prospects in low income households.
Now that we got that out of the way, lets talk about what could only be referred to as a collection. I say that because The Shawn Carter Collection is nothing more than an assemblage of opulent... stuff - for lack of a better word -- that you will probably never need, and you definitely never knew you wanted. Jay Z got together with a couple of his niche designer friends, excluding Tom Ford, to have them create things for the G.O.A.T. to slap his name on.
Lets take a look!
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| Mixed Exotics Brooklyn Cap by Just Don |
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| Epaulette Tee Shirt and Emblem Print Tee - Shirt by Balmain |
More from this designer: http://www.balmain.com/en/
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| Oversized Zip Duffel by T. Anthony |
Known for hand-crafted luggage made from high quality materials, luxury, and style, T. Anthony collaborates with Shawn to create this masculine, chic carry-on. I am in love with the simple details of this bag, from the gold oversize zipper to the offset lock for stylish security.
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| Humidor by Cohiba |
More from this designer: https://www.cigarworld.com/age-gate/
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| Leather Boxing Shorts by En Noir |
More from this designer: http://www.barneys.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BNY-Site/default/Search-Show?cgid=BARNEYS&prefn1=designer&prefv1=En%20Noir
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| Cashmere Ski Mask by The Elder Statesman |
If you're going to rob a liquor store, you might as well do it in style by wearing this cashmere ski mask by the Elder Statesman. Who better to collaborate with that [expletive] Jigga on this $695 winter weather accessory than the Elder Statesman; known for their plush cashmere and cotton sweaters, scarves, gloves, and blankets.
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| Slim Fit Dress Shirt and Vinyl Coated Camo Jaquard Tie by Lanvin |
Be on your suit and tie ish in this slim fit dress shirt and vinyl coated necktie brought to you by Lanvin. Lanvin is a Parisian designer (one of my favorites!) that makes cutting edge clothing, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. The shirt retails for $450, and the tie for $560.
More from this designer: http://www.lanvin.com/e-lanvin/US/
All in all, I think Jay Z's idea to collaborate with famous designers rather than hire a team of designers is genius. Each piece featured in the Shawn Carter Collection is befitting of an American, luxurious Gangster. The collection works for his brand, and for Barneys' image. There are a lot more pieces belonging to his collection from designers such as Hublot, Rick Owens, Acne, Proenza Schouler, Cutler & Gross, and many more.
Go check it out at:
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