State Champ Radio Style & Fashion
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Prada has agreed to buy the smaller Italian fashion house, and competitor, Versace. The deal is reportedly worth almost $1.4 billion.
On Thursday (April 10), Prada it purchased the brand for $1.375 billion (€1.25 bn) from its owner, Capri Holdings. Part of the deal was acquiring Versace’s debt and the union creates one of the biggest conglomerates in Italian fashion.
Hip-Hop fans have long held both Prada and Versace in high regard. While the Prada “America’s Cup” sneaker has been a staple in the wardrobe of affluent (or at least “faking it til they make I”t rappers), the late, great Notorious B.I.G. was known for his Versace “Medusa” sunglasses. And you have to mention the Migos making a hit called “Versace,” that Drake promptly hopped on, back in 2013.
“We are delighted to welcome Versace to the Prada Group and to build a new chapter for a brand with which we share a strong commitment to creativity, craftmanship and heritage,” said Patrizio Bertelli, Prada Group Chairman and Executive Director, in a statement. “We aim to continue Versace’s legacy celebrating and re-interpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic; at the same time, we will provide it with a strong platform, reinforced by years of ongoing investments and rooted in longstanding relationships. Our organisation is ready and well positioned to write a new page in Versace’s history, drawing on the Group’s values while continuing to execute with confidence and rigorous focus.”
Back in March, Donatella Versace announced that she was vacating her longtime post as Chief Creative Officer of Versace (she is now its Chief Brand Ambassador), which was founded by her late brother, Gianni.
“Versace is an iconic Italian fashion luxury house founded 46 years ago by Gianni Versace and further developed under the creative vision of Donatella Versace,” said John D. Idol, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in a statement. “Over the last six years, we have made tremendous progress in repositioning the brand to place greater emphasis on its luxury heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Through elevated product, marketing and store enhancements, the brand is now well positioned for sustainable long-term growth. We are confident that Prada Group is the perfect company to further guide Versace into its next era of growth and success.”
See reactions to Prada’s power move in the gallery.
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Prada has agreed to buy the smaller Italian fashion house, and competitor, Versace. The deal is reportedly worth almost $1.4 billion.
On Thursday (April 10), Prada it purchased the brand for $1.375 billion (€1.25 bn) from its owner, Capri Holdings. Part of the deal was acquiring Versace’s debt and the union creates one of the biggest conglomerates in Italian fashion.
Hip-Hop fans have long held both Prada and Versace in high regard. While the Prada “America’s Cup” sneaker has been a staple in the wardrobe of affluent (or at least “faking it til they make I”t rappers), the late, great Notorious B.I.G. was known for his Versace “Medusa” sunglasses. And you have to mention the Migos making a hit called “Versace,” that Drake promptly hopped on, back in 2013.
“We are delighted to welcome Versace to the Prada Group and to build a new chapter for a brand with which we share a strong commitment to creativity, craftmanship and heritage,” said Patrizio Bertelli, Prada Group Chairman and Executive Director, in a statement. “We aim to continue Versace’s legacy celebrating and re-interpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic; at the same time, we will provide it with a strong platform, reinforced by years of ongoing investments and rooted in longstanding relationships. Our organisation is ready and well positioned to write a new page in Versace’s history, drawing on the Group’s values while continuing to execute with confidence and rigorous focus.”
Back in March, Donatella Versace announced that she was vacating her longtime post as Chief Creative Officer of Versace (she is now its Chief Brand Ambassador), which was founded by her late brother, Gianni.
“Versace is an iconic Italian fashion luxury house founded 46 years ago by Gianni Versace and further developed under the creative vision of Donatella Versace,” said John D. Idol, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in a statement. “Over the last six years, we have made tremendous progress in repositioning the brand to place greater emphasis on its luxury heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Through elevated product, marketing and store enhancements, the brand is now well positioned for sustainable long-term growth. We are confident that Prada Group is the perfect company to further guide Versace into its next era of growth and success.”
See reactions to Prada’s power move in the gallery.
Cassius Life Featured Video
CLOSE
Prada has agreed to buy the smaller Italian fashion house, and competitor, Versace. The deal is reportedly worth almost $1.4 billion.
On Thursday (April 10), Prada it purchased the brand for $1.375 billion (€1.25 bn) from its owner, Capri Holdings. Part of the deal was acquiring Versace’s debt and the union creates one of the biggest conglomerates in Italian fashion.
Hip-Hop fans have long held both Prada and Versace in high regard. While the Prada “America’s Cup” sneaker has been a staple in the wardrobe of affluent (or at least “faking it til they make I”t rappers), the late, great Notorious B.I.G. was known for his Versace “Medusa” sunglasses. And you have to mention the Migos making a hit called “Versace,” that Drake promptly hopped on, back in 2013.
“We are delighted to welcome Versace to the Prada Group and to build a new chapter for a brand with which we share a strong commitment to creativity, craftmanship and heritage,” said Patrizio Bertelli, Prada Group Chairman and Executive Director, in a statement. “We aim to continue Versace’s legacy celebrating and re-interpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic; at the same time, we will provide it with a strong platform, reinforced by years of ongoing investments and rooted in longstanding relationships. Our organisation is ready and well positioned to write a new page in Versace’s history, drawing on the Group’s values while continuing to execute with confidence and rigorous focus.”
Back in March, Donatella Versace announced that she was vacating her longtime post as Chief Creative Officer of Versace (she is now its Chief Brand Ambassador), which was founded by her late brother, Gianni.
“Versace is an iconic Italian fashion luxury house founded 46 years ago by Gianni Versace and further developed under the creative vision of Donatella Versace,” said John D. Idol, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in a statement. “Over the last six years, we have made tremendous progress in repositioning the brand to place greater emphasis on its luxury heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Through elevated product, marketing and store enhancements, the brand is now well positioned for sustainable long-term growth. We are confident that Prada Group is the perfect company to further guide Versace into its next era of growth and success.”
See reactions to Prada’s power move in the gallery.
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Source: X / @godmeetsfashion
Trump’s new and idiotic tariffs might’ve sent Nike’s stock spiraling down something ridiculous, but that’s not stopping them from continuing to release some much anticipated heat going forward. The next big drop is coming next week in the form of the SB Air Jordan 4 “Navy Blue.”
According to Sneaker News, the second colorway of the much beloved SB x Air Jordan 4 collaboration will see an April 15 release on Nike’s loathed SNKRS app just weeks after seeing its first drop via raffles from participating skate shops around the globe. Rumored to be only 50,000 pairs available worldwide (less on the SNKRS app after its first initial drop), the sneaker community has been eagerly waiting for their second chance to get a pair as millions of sneaker heads took L’s on the raffles the first time around.
Still, nothing is set in stone. And Nike could simply change up the release date at the last minute as they’ve been known to do.
Per Sneaker News:
Sneaker News can confirm that the Jordan 4 SB “Navy” will be available on April 15th, 2025 on SNKRS for $225. Although official release details have not yet been disclosed, it is possible that the Swoosh will employ the same procedure from the Jordan 4 SB “Pine Green” launch roughly two years ago.
Instead of the typical Draw, where users have a dedicated window of time to submit an entry, Nike could be employing an Exclusive Access Draw in which users have to meet a list of specific criteria to even have a chance at copping at retail. The criteria likely includes entering a certain number of Nike SB launches and/or minimum purchases of SB product. Again, this is not confirmed; we are merely reiterating what happened with the Pine Green SB release.
The way the SNKRS app be dishing out L’s like the point guard on your favorite team, we’re not sure how well this release will go. But best believe their will be many more losers than winners and everyone will take to social media to complain one way or another.
Regardless, we needs a pair so best believe we’ll be crossing our fingers and hoping Nike takes our money when release day comes around.
Will you be trying to cop a pair? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Source: @fatjoe / Instagram
Now that Donald Trump has decided to accelerate America’s path to a recession and implement unnecessary tariffs on every country and penguin inhabited island outside of Russia (of course), stocks have plummeted for every single sneaker brand as they make all of their merchandise overseas.
According to Complex, the new Trump Tariffs sent Nike stock plunging 13% as both China and Vietnam were hit with huge tariffs and as any sneaker head knows, their favorite grails are made in both the aforementioned countries. Unfortunately this was before China announced retaliatory tariffs in which they clapped back at the U.S. with a 34% tariffs on U.S. imports instead of “negotiating” as the “dealmaker” known as Trump had hoped they’d do.
How this will affect Nike’s stock going forward is anyone’s guess, but already there’s word that Nike will indeed be raising the prices of their sneakers due to the new tariffs and with the kind of 2025 sneaker lineup that dreams are made of (for sneakerheads anyway), one can only wonder if heads will continue to copp or pass on highly-anticipated releases given that we’ll more than likely be in a recession by the middle of the year, if not earlier.
Per Complex:
The plunging stock prices of Nike are a direct response to Trump’s tariffs of 10 percent for all imports taking effect on April 5, with steeper tariffs on imports from select countries being imposed on April 9. For the latter, the higher tariffs include 34 percent on imports from China, 32 percent on imports from Indonesia, and 46 percent on imports from Vietnam. Nike said in an SEC filing last year that factories made roughly 50 percent of its footwear in Vietnam, 27 percent in Indonesia, and 18 percent in China.
Nike isn’t the only sportswear company being affected by the news of the tariffs. Stock prices took a huge tumble for brands like Adidas (16 percent), Crocs (15 percent), On (15 percent), Under Armour (17 percent), and others on Thursday, with percentages expected to fluctuate throughout the day.
Well, at least grocery prices are down, right? Oh wait.
Though there is word that Democratic and Republican congressmen and women are working on a bill to reiterate that only congress has the power to implement tariffs, with the way MAGA Republicans bend to their orange overlord’s every whim and demand, we’re not sure that will actually happen anytime soon.
Get ready to pay an extra $20 to $30 for your favorite Air Jordans going forward as no way Nike is going to eat the cost of Trump’s tariffs. Don’t get us started on $2300 iPhones.
But hey, at least trans men can’t play in women’s sports anymore, right? SMH.
What do y’all think about Trump’s new tariffs? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Source: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty
Lizzo didn’t just attend the 2025 Breakthrough Prize ceremony on Saturday, April 5. She wowed attendees with her edgy style, trendy makeup look, and undeniable confidence.
And after seeing her slay, the internet ate up every single detail.
Lizzo gives rockstar vampire vibes at the 11th Annual Breakthrough Prize ceremony
The award-winning singer pulled up in a curve-hugging, body-sculpting Robert Wun gown in a rich, velvety red that gave luxury and drama in one breath. From the matching opera gloves (with attached stilletto nails) to the structured pleats flowing into a train, Lizzo’s look was everything. And we are obsessed.
Lizzo’s hair and makeup were equally as stunning.
Her slick, wet-look hair with jagged shoulder-length ends and face-bangs gave major rockstar vibes. Leaning into her rock era, the “About Damn Time” singer rocked bold red eye shadow and a dewy sculpted makeup look.
Source: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty
Lizzo’s been on a serious glow-up tour lately, and every time she hits a red carpet, she gives us something to talk about. Her emerging style continues to be a love letter to her “that girl” confidence and self-love.
Alicia Keys ‘breakthrough’ the red carpet in an oversized, modern suit.
While Lizzo was giving drama and diva realness, she wasn’t the only one. Alicia Keys came through with a vibe of her own. The queen of effortless cool wore an oversized pinstripe suit with an androgynous edge that felt grown, powerful, and trendy.
Alicia completed her fit with mini shades, a bold red lip, and her signature braids. She exemplified being “the girl on fire,” oozing main character energy. (Note: Kelly Rowland also donned a similar Fear of God suit while on the campaign trail for Kamala Harris. See her take on the look while gracing the stage with Beyonce here.)
Source: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty
Zoe Saldaña exemplifies sophisitication at the Breakthrough Prize soiree
Zoe Saldaña was another star slaying at the Breakthrough event. The Oscar-winning actress kept it simple but sharp in a fitted off-the-shoulder chocolate brown midi dress with a subtle structure. Her dress’ slit added a hint of sultry while her classic black pumps kept everything sleek and sophisticated.
When science and high society collide, you better believe fashion will follow. That’s why we love the Breakthrough Prize gala. The annual soiree celebrates innovation while drawing Hollywood’s finest stars in their flyest fits.
Lizzo Gives Vampy Rockstar Vibes At The 11th Breakthrough Prize Ceremony
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Source: adidas / Minecraft
adidas and the popular video game franchise Minecraft are coming together for a groundbreaking collaboration that will keep fans of both brands looking F L Y in both the physical and virtual worlds.
The iconic German sportswear company announced its multi-year partnership with entertainment and gaming brand Minecraft. Minecraft is famous for its character’s block aesthetics and is one of the best-selling video games, with over 300 million copies sold.
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According to adidas, the collaboration will see new apparel and footwear products, plus stretch into the digital space with in-game activations.
adidas will launch a limited capsule collection on April 1 to celebrate the forthcoming film, A Minecraft Movie, signaling the start of their multi-year partnership.
Per adidas:
adidas and Minecraft announce a multi-year collaboration to develop apparel and footwear products as well as digital experiences, making the partnership a perfect crossover between gaming, sport, and culture.
The partnership launches with a capsule collection inspired by the upcoming A Minecraft Movie, transforming the film’s core narrative into bold, wearable designs. This collection is more than just apparel and footwear – it’s an invitation to step into the world of “A Minecraft Movie” and carry its energy beyond the screen.
What To Expect From The adidas x A Minecraft Movie Capsule Collection
The collection that will feature apparel and footwear and will be available in kids, junior, and adult sizing will consist of these design elements:
GRAPHICS: Iconic characters from A Minecraft Movie are reimagined through mixed-media executions, including blocky prints and textured details.
ALL-OVER PRINTS: All-over patterns transport fans into the movie’s universe, drawing inspiration from its most memorable scenes, including the blue portal landscape that bridges the real world and the Overworld.
STORYTELLING GARMENTS: Designs inspired by the film’s most striking and memorable costumes, such as one protagonist’s bold 80s-inspired leather jacket, reimagined with elements from the adidas ’80s archive.
Source: adidas / Minecraft
The adidas Originals x Minecraft collection will be available globally on April 1 and in select stores and online at adidas.com.
For more photos of the collection, hit the gallery below.
1. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
2. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
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adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
3. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
4. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
5. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
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adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
6. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
7. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
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adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
8. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
9. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
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adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
10. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
11. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
Source:Minecraft
adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
12. adidas x Minecraft Multi-Year Collaboration
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adidas and Minecraft Announce Multi-Year Collaboration, Blending Physical and Digital Worlds adidas,minecraft
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Source: Valerie Terranova / Getty
Broadway was giving life this past weekend as Othello opened Sunday, March 23, at the Barrymore Theater in New York City. And honey, trust—everybody who’s anybody pulled up.
The red carpet was serving serious looks!
Stars from everywhere came through, from former president Joe Biden and J.Lo to our faves Nicole Ari Parker, Danielle Brooks, and Nia Long. They weren’t just there for the legendary Denzel Washington holding down the lead role, but also for Atlanta’s very own Kandi Burruss, who produced the show.
A-listers didn’t just show up to see the play – they did so in style. The red carpet shined with trend and fashion, just like the glitz and glam of award shows.
We were gagging at all of the style moments.
Kandi Burrus Slays In Style Wearing Christian Siriano
Producer Kandi slayed like the woman of the night. She wore an over-the-top, sheer black wrapped Christian Siriano gown. The gown featured a halter-style top, strapless design, and a dramatic oval-shaped skirt.
Danielle Brooks stunned in a curve-hugging number featuring an abstract black chain-link print on a creamy base. Her glam was flawless, with big, voluminous curls giving goddess vibes and makeup that popped just right.
Source: Valerie Terranova / Getty
Nia Long kept it chic and effortlessly fly in an all-black moment. She rocked an oversized mini dress with statement sleeves and paired it with sheer tights and stilettos that said, “Yes, legs!” The black clutch and subtle jewelry elevated the look, reminding us why she’s forever style goals.
Source: Valerie Terranova / Getty
The fashion on this carpet showed us drama isn’t just for the stage—it’s all about making a statement everywhere you go. Other celebs like Ariana DeBose, Blair Underwood, Spike Lee, Keenan Thompson, Deborah Cox, also came through and delivered.
Style Gallery: Broadway’s Othello Opening Night Brings Out Black Hollywood’s Finest
Othello runs until June 8, giving us plenty of time to catch these Broadway vibes. Scroll on to peep more looks that gave us life on opening night!
Style Gallery: Broadway’s Othello Opening Night Brings Out Black Hollywood’s Finest
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1. Sherri Shepherd
Source:Getty
Sherri Shepherd arrived to the opening night in a soft demure look we love. Pairing a cream top with a cream skirt, the talk show hosts masters monochromatic fashion while showing off her slim figure. With sleek hair and natural makeup, Sherri is killing it.
2. Angela Bassett
Source:Getty
Angela Bassett gave everything we didn’t even know we needed in a lush deep-red satin suit. She paired her relaxed-fit blazer and pants combo with a sleek sheer top and a slim black belt, pulling it all together with matching burgundy pumps. Angela’s smoky makeup and laid-back waves just made it all look so effortless.
3. Tamron Hall
Source:Getty
We love a dusty rose moment and Tamron Hall shows why. The talk show host and former anchor dazzles on the Othello carpet in a midi-length ruched dress in dusty rose. On top of the dress she wore a stunning print statement duster. Matching the light pink color of her dress with the soft shade of her eye shadow, Tamron makes a flawless statement.
4. Kimber Elayne Sprawl
Source:Getty
Kimber Elayne Sprawl made Othello’s red carpet her runway in this look. Posing for cameras, she looked stunning in this short-sleeved black sheath dress with dramatic circle feather cut-outs. Yes, honey, slay the girls! poses at the opening night after party for “Othello” on Broadway at Tavern on The Green on March 23, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/WireImage) vertical,color image,photography,arts culture and entertainment,usa,new york city,theatrical performance,after party,broadway – manhattan,premiere event,tavern on the green
5. Colman Domingo
Source:Getty
Colman Domingo attended the night of Othello living up to his “Mr. Red Carpet nickname. He was the “life of the party” in a casual tan suit wih a dark grey tie. Cool black rimmed sunglasses with orange lenses added a fresh factor to the evening look.
6. Ariana DeBose
Source:Getty
Ariana DeBose stepped onto the carpet bringing all the bold energy in a bright red gown with delicate silver accents on the straps. With pockets (because, hello—practicality and style!), Ariana’s look was fun, fresh, and flirty. A classic pixie cut and glowing makeup sealed the deal.
7. Denzel Washington
Source:Getty
Denzel Washington owns this laid-back red carpet look. He keeps it cool and classic in a relaxed black suit and tee combo, paired with sneakers. The look is effortlessly confident and worthy of an icon such as Denzel.
8. Nicole Ari Parker
Source:Getty
Nicole Ari Parker’s look is a mix between sophisticated edge with comfy couture. The And Just Like That star rocks a black leather dress and tights with an oversized cream and black dress. Her hair is slightly tousled and fab.
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Source: Stuart C. Wilson / Getty
Rihanna took a flight back to her hometown of Barbados on March 11 to unveil her brand new FENTY x PUMA collection, which features three new exciting items, according to Complex.
The Bajan beauty was all smiles as she schmoozed with attendees at the release party wearing a pair of the FENTY x PUMA Avanti LS stitched sneakers, one of the new items offered within the buzzing line. Inspired by the PUMA King soccer cleat, the lime green and orange sneakers paired perfectly with the “Needed Me” singer’s oversized green and white baseball jersey and her two green ruffled chiffon skirts.
The mother of two topped off the look with a green bikini top, a beautiful bun, and a Sabyasachi necklace, WWD noted.
In one photo, the Grammy-award-winning artist could be seen embracing model and Savage X Fenty ambassador Serena Page, as a group of attendees clamored for photos of the duo. Rihanna—who hails from Bridgetown, Barbados—was also spotted letting her hair down to party with guests during the fun launch event.
What else can you purchase in the new collection?
Along with the Avant L sneakers, the new FENTY x PUMA collection will also include The Cat Cleat Jelly, a sandal made from synthetic leather and rubber. The bold shoe stands out with its vibrant design and soccer-inspired cleats on the outsole, paired with vibrant colors native to Rihanna’s hometown of Barbados. The collection will also feature the Pocket Bag, crafted from polyurethane and cotton. The tiny and sleek bag offers a slim profile and is enhanced with contrast piping for added dimension.
Items from the collection range between $75 to $120 and it will officially drop on March 13.
This isn’t the first time Rihanna has returned to her home country.
In November 2021, the Fenty Beauty founder visited Barbados when she was honored as a national hero in Bridgetown. The prestigious award was presented during a historic moment as the country celebrated becoming a republic after nearly 400 years of British colonial rule.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley awarded Rihanna the National Hero of Barbados title in front of a cheering crowd, recognizing her remarkable achievements in both music and the beauty industry.
Will you be purchasing items from the latest FENTY x PUMA collection? Tell us in the comments section.
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While the release of Beyonce’s niche-busting album of the year “Cowboy Carter” drummed up fanfare around Black cowboy fashion, the culture around wide-brimmed hats, denim, pointed-toe leather boots, and ass-less chaps runs as deep as this country’s history.
Black cowboys were crucial in building 19th-century wealth for white Texan southerners. In the early 1800s, Texas was still Mexican-ruled territory, but white Americans migrated West, seeking affordable land to settle and establish cotton farms and cattle ranches. Even though slavery was illegal in Mexico, Southern whites brought the enslaved with them anyway. By 1825, enslaved people made up 25 percent of Texas’ population, according to The Smithsonian. Texas entered into U.S. statehood at the end of 1845.
As the civil war ripped the country at its seams from 1861 to 1865, white Texans left their land to fight for the confederate South. Black enslaved hands were left behind to handle and maintain the cattle-herding. The work was gritty, and included duties like breaking in horses (training wild horses to be ridden), lassoing-up herds, and transporting cattle through unforgiving terrain. Even though Black Americans were freed when the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law in 1863, White settlers, unwilling to give up the free labor that sustained their businesses, didn’t enforce the legislation. Two years later, on June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger informed 250,000 Texans who were still enslaved that they were free, which is the day we now celebrate as Juneteenth. As former white enslavers scrambled to maintain their land and livestock without the help of forced, unpaid laborers, skilled Black cowboys were in high job demand. Historians estimate 1 in 4 cowboys were Black, and even though their influence has often been discredited by mainstream culture, music artists have rode alongside them to keep their legacy alive.
Music And Fashion Of The South
Source: George De Sota / Getty
Black cowboy fashion penetrated mainstream culture as big Southern stars gained popularity in America in the 20th century. Georgia-born Ray Charles rocked a cowboy hat during performances of his country songs, The Guardian reports, and other iconic artists, like Otis Redding and Curtis Mayfield, accompanied their music with cowboy stylings. The video for The Gap Band’s single, “Burn Rubber On Me,” featured the group in denim and cowboy hats.
In 2001, while promoting their highly anticipated comeback album Survivor in New York City, Destiny’s Child rocked cobalt blue, tasseled midriff-bearing bralettes, accented with sparkling silver cowboy hats with matching boots (pre-Renaissance era). The women stood strongly together as a newly formed trio, and they let their music and fashion choices do the talking: not only were they still standing, but they were also still insanely talented, country, and Texas AF.
Fast forward, Beyonce’s solo career has continued to be an extension of her Texas roots, with Cowboy Carter triggering an emergence of cowboy fashion into the Black cultural zeitgeist. Hip-hop artists, like Swae Lee, are known to don steel-toe boots during rap performances, and Lil Nas X’s hip-hop, country, genre-blending hit, “Old Town Road” had the whole world rocking gallon-hats with pride.
Beyonce’s upcoming, highly-anticipated Cowboy Carter tour is sure to set off another wave of cowboy fashion obsession, as thousands of fans flock to stadiums all over America in their country’s best. Their fits, whether it’s a white-fringed blouse or a bold-buckled brown-leather belt, are a symbolic bow to the past.
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