Jordan Brand Opens ‘World of Flight’ in Beijing’s Sanlitun District

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Jordan World of Flight (WOF) will debut in China with the grand opening of its Beijing Sanlitun store on March 23. The store, which will occupy a sprawling 1,000 square meters across four stories, promises to be a beacon for basketball enthusiasts and streetwear aficionados alike.

Nestled in the vibrant Sanlitun area of Beijing’s Chaoyang District, WOF Beijing Sanlitun boasts exclusive access to Jordan Brand’s finest streetwear and performance gear. The store offers a wide array of products and unique experiences, including convenient pick-up services, customizable items, and member-only events.

“Jordan Brand has always shared a special relationship with China,” says Sarah Mensah, President, Jordan Brand. “China’s love for the game of basketball runs deep, and we’re thrilled to open Jordan World of Flight Beijing Sanlitun as our pinnacle expression of basketball culture and Jordan Brand at retail. Jordan World of Flight stores worldwide including Milan, Tokyo and Seoul are being embraced by consumers and we are excited to extend this innovative retail concept to our consumers in China. The unveiling of Jordan World of Flight Beijing Sanlitun is a pivotal moment for Jordan’s global strategy, signaling a new chapter for the Brand’s expansion and innovation in China furthering the Brand’s international presence.”

A key highlight of the store is the Wings Collection, a pinnacle of luxury streetwear curated by Jordan Brand. Available for purchase nationwide, this collection epitomizes exclusivity and style.

The store’s design pays homage to Jordan Brand’s legacy and Chinese culture. From incorporating local architectural elements like the iconic 京砖 flooring of the Forbidden City to showcasing the brand’s history through art installations, WOF Beijing Sanlitun immerses visitors in a rich tapestry of basketball heritage.

Moreover, the store engages local artists to infuse their creativity into its ambiance and product offerings. The Jordan Local Artist series, featuring collaborations with Chinese street artists, adds a contemporary flair to the brand’s lineup.

With its premium lounge, The Workshop for personalized customization, and a commitment to fostering community among basketball enthusiasts, Jordan WOF Beijing Sanlitun aims to redefine the retail experience for sneakerheads and sports fans.

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Joe Freshgoods to Develop Collection to Celebrate Lollapalooza’s 20th Anniversary in Chicago

Joe Freshgoods will bring a new collection to celebrate 20 years of Lollapalooza in Chicago.

Joe Freshgoods will bring a new collection to celebrate 20 years of Lollapalooza in Chicago.

Hitting social media, JFG revealed a merch trailer to announce the partnership.

“Joe Freshgoods for @lollapalooza,” he wrote. “20 years of Lolla in Chicago. It’s about to be a very lit summer in the city.

Lollapalooza returns to Chicago Aug. 1 -4, 2024. The festival will arrive on Tuesday, March 19.

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Report: Touring Giants Live Nation and AEG Decline Kanye West for a Tour

Kanye West George Floyd

Kanye West hoped to take his Vultures album with Ty Dolla $ign on the road. Unfortunately for him, Live Nation and AEG won’t assist.

According to Hits Daily Double, insiders state neither touring company will move forward with requests on a Ye tour that is being pitched by his agent Cara Lewis. The decision comes despite Ye moving over 10,000 tickets for his events, like the one in Chicago.

It is noted that Chicago companies Jam Productions and SPKRBX collaborated on the United Center booking days before the release.

Ye and Ty Dolla $ign are being sued by the Donna Summer estate for using the icon’s “I Feel Love” in the creation of “Good (Don’t Die).”

The suit is led by Summer’s husband, Bruce Sandano, stating the interpolation was not approved due to Ye’s “controversial history.”

Ye submitted a request for clearance, but it was denied on Feb. 3, 2024, in both written and phone communications. The song was submitted for clearance at Universal Music Enterprises as an alternative but was once again denied.

The estate is now seeking damages of $150,000 for each infringement.

Earlier this week, after Adidas announced a new stock drop of Yeezy sneakers at the end of the month, Kanye hit the net with a message stating he was sued.

“Not only are they putting out fake colorways that are not approved, they are suing me for $250 million,” Ye said. “And they also not paying me for these shoes they are putting out that has my name on it.

“They are using contract clauses and 50 years of business experience to rape an artist – one of y’all favorite artists – right in front of y’all in broad daylight.”

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Shoe Palace Unveils Exclusive ‘Boyz N The Hood’ Apparel Collection

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Celebrating the enduring legacy of the cinematic masterpiece Boyz N The Hood, Shoe Palace announces the launch of a new apparel line paying homage to the iconic film.

Boyz N The Hood, directed by the late John Singleton, remains a cultural touchstone. It reshapes the landscape of filmmaking and amplifies diverse narratives for mainstream audiences. Now, Shoe Palace revisits its collaboration with the film, building on the success of its 2019 capsule collection.

This latest collaboration promises even more quality and creativity, featuring exclusive images and artwork available only at Shoe Palace. The collection encompasses a range of apparel, including tees, hoodies, pants, and shorts, each meticulously crafted to capture the essence and style of the Southern California-based movie.

The Shoe Palace x Boyz N The Hood collection will debut exclusively at select Shoe Palace retail locations and online at shoepalace.com this March. With limited availability, fans are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their pieces and honor the enduring impact of one of cinema’s finest achievements.

Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of cinematic history. Join Shoe Palace in commemorating “Boyz N The Hood” and indulge in this unique apparel collection that pays tribute to a timeless classic.

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Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection

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Mallet London, renowned for its British luxury footwear, and The Smiley Company, an iconic symbol of positivity, have joined forces to launch their first collaborative capsule collection. The dream team just released their collection which introduces the Neptune style, infused with the vibrant spirit of Smiley.

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This collaboration marks a fusion of fashion and positivity, as Mallet London and Smiley aim to spread joy and encourage people to embrace a lighthearted approach to life. The Neptune silhouette, available in black and white variations for both men and women, embodies this philosophy with unique baubles integrated into the design, creating a playful interaction with each step.

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At the heart of the collaboration lies a shared ethos between the two brands. Mallet London’s Founder, Evren Ozka, expresses his excitement about partnering with Smiley, emphasizing the alignment of values centered around positivity and creating meaningful connections with consumers.

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The design team at Mallet London drew inspiration from childhood nostalgia, incorporating Smiley icons reminiscent of ball pits and pinball machines. The result is a whimsical yet stylish sneaker that incorporates Smiley’s signature motifs while staying true to Mallet’s sleek aesthetic.

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The attention to detail is evident throughout the collection, with Smiley slogans discreetly integrated into the design, inviting wearers to discover hidden messages that evoke smiles. Each pair of shoes is accompanied by a commemorative box, a Smiley branded keychain, and an exclusive Mallet jewel adorning the laces, further enhancing the unique charm of the collaboration.

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Callum Ruane, Head of Marketing at Mallet London, reflects on the collaborative process, describing it as a joyous campaign that seamlessly merges Smiley’s brand narrative with Mallet’s identity. The result is a collection that exudes positivity and resonates with consumers seeking not only stylish footwear but also a meaningful connection with the brands they support.

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Ross Wilson, Chief Product Officer – Fashion at The Smiley Company, praises the collaborative effort, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail that infuses fun and playfulness into every aspect of the Neptune collection. From the placement of Smiley icons dancing on the shoe’s bubble to the inclusion of hidden slogans, each element contributes to uplifting spirits and spreading smiles with every step.

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This exclusive capsule collection embodies the essence of Mallet London and The Smiley Company’s shared vision of positivity and creativity. With its unique blend of style and optimism, the Mallet & Smiley Neptune collection promises to captivate fashion enthusiasts and spread joy one step at a time.

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Ye Leaks Adidas ‘Yeezy Talking Points’ For Their Employees

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Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, has taken to social media to warn his fans against purchasing the upcoming Adidas Yeezy sneakers. The rapper and fashion mogul revealed that Adidas is no longer paying him and has initiated a lawsuit against him for a staggering $250 million, all while continuing to sell his signature shoes.

Adding fuel to the fire, Ye took to social media last night to leak internal talking points shared by Adidas with their employees. These talking points are designed to address concerns from hesitant buyers regarding the ongoing controversy.

According to the leaked memo, Adidas is instructing its sellers to assure buyers that the upcoming Yeezy sneakers are not new designs, but rather existing Yeezys that were initiated in 2020. The memo emphasizes that Adidas owns the copyrights, designs, and colorways of these sneakers, despite Ye’s involvement in their creation.

Furthermore, sellers are instructed to inform buyers that Adidas fulfilled all contractual obligations to Ye and discussed the release of the product with him prior to making any public announcements. The memo advises employees to keep conversations with customers brief and to the point.

In a surprising analogy, Ye likened his situation with Adidas to his relationship with his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. He claimed that Adidas disregarded his opinion, much like Kim allegedly disregarded his preferences regarding their children’s education.

This public dispute between Ye and Adidas has sent shockwaves through the fashion and sneaker communities. Fans and consumers are left wondering about the future of the Yeezy brand and whether this rift will have lasting implications on Ye’s collaborations with Adidas.

As the saga continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Adidas will navigate this controversy and how Ye will respond to the ongoing legal battle.

Thoughts?

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Exploring the Fusion of Ghanaian Artistry and Contemporary Fashion with Fort Mose 1738

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As Black History Month draws to a close, we turn our attention to a new fashion line making waves in the USA: Fort Mose 1738. Designed for US audiences by Maurice Gattis, a professor of social work at Virginia Commonwealth University and a prominent LGBQT advocate, Fort Mose 1738 aims to “shine a light” on the remarkable artistry discovered during Maurice’s visit to Ghana in 2021.

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A Journey of Friendship and Partnership

Maurice’s journey to Ghana began as a vacation but evolved into a transformative experience. A chance encounter with a local taxi driver led to a friendship that blossomed into a business partnership. Inspired by the exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant textiles he encountered, Maurice embarked on a mission to bring Ghanaian artistry to a global audience.

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An Exclusive Interview with Maurice Gattis

In an exclusive interview, Maurice Gattis shares insights into the inspiration behind Fort Mose 1738 and the unique partnership that brought it to life.

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Fulfilling a Mission Through Fashion

“My experiences as a Fulbright Scholar and my background in social work have profoundly influenced my approach to fashion design,” Maurice explains. “I wanted to create a brand that not only celebrates African artistry but also educates consumers about the rich history of Fort Mose, the first free black community in America.”

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Empowering Skilled Artisans

Fort Mose 1738 is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a platform for empowering skilled artisans in Ghana. “Our collaboration with local couturiers in Ghana ensures that each garment is meticulously crafted using traditional techniques,” Maurice emphasizes. “By supporting ethical sourcing and sustainable production practices, we aim to promote economic empowerment and cultural preservation.”

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Celebrating Diversity in African Fashion

“African fashion is not one look, one style, one textile, it is diverse,” Maurice notes. “With Fort Mose 1738, it is our goal to reach people who are interested in combining contemporary Western looks with Ghana’s stunning textiles.”

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Honoring Cultural Heritage Through Design

Kente, a traditional Ghanaian textile, plays a central role in Fort Mose 1738’s designs. “Kente has played a very important role in Ghana’s history,” Maurice explains. “The fabric, as well as the bold, colorful prints abstracted from Ghana’s natural surroundings, demonstrate an authentic, local influence.”

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Prioritizing Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

“Fort Mose 1738 exists to help bring American attention to the work of these skilled artisans,” Maurice emphasizes. “Our pieces are produced in small batches to minimize waste, and we prioritize ethical sourcing practices to support local communities.”

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Looking Ahead: The Future of Fort Mose 1738

“I’m currently working on designing the Fort Mose 1738 Spring/Summer 2025 collection,” Maurice shares. “Our goal is to continue designing versatile cotton and Kente pieces that celebrate Ghanaian heritage while offering contemporary, wearable designs for everyday life.”

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As Maurice Gattis continues to blend Ghanaian artistry with contemporary fashion, Fort Mose 1738 promises to be a beacon of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts around the world. With its commitment to celebrating cultural heritage, promoting sustainability, and empowering local communities, Fort Mose 1738 represents more than just a fashion brand—it’s a celebration of creativity, diversity, and collaboration.

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WATCH: Kanye West’s Paris Fans Chant ‘F*** Adidas’

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Kanye West and Bianca Censori are currently in France for Paris Fashion Week. While leaving The Ritz on Wednesday, the adoring crowd outside supported Ye, chanting “F*ck Adidas.”

During the moment, Ye riled up the crowd to be louder and even signed an autograph.

You can see the moment below.

Kanye West is not here for the sale of the new Yeezys. After the brand announced a new stock drop at the end of the month, Kanye hit the net with a message, stating he was sued.

“Not only are they putting out fake colorways that are not approved, they are suing me for $250 million,” Ye said. “And they also not paying me for these shoes they are putting out that has my name on it.

“They are using contract clauses and 50 years of business experience to rape an artist – one of y’all favorite artists – right in front of y’all in broad daylight.”

According to Complex, Adidas announced the remaining release of its Yeezy stock on Feb. 29. The “Steel Grey” Yeezy Boost 350 V2 will be available for $230 by using the Confirmed app, Adidas app, or Adidas.com.

Adidas also teased additional sneakers, showing an image with silhouettes of the Yeezy Foam Runner, the Yeezy 500, the Yeezy Boost 350 V2, and the Yeezy Slides.

Meanwhile, Kanye West delivered a message to fans to not buy them. “Anybody who loves Ye would not buy these fake Yeezys [.] I never made these color ways [.] I’m not getting paid off of them and adidas is suing me.”

You can see his full statement below.

In Sept. 2023, Ye received words of support from Adidas CEO Bjørn Gulden. In an interview, Gulden stated he doesn’t believe Kanye West is a bad person.

“And then as creative people he did some statements which wasn’t that good,” Gulden said. “And that caused Adi to break the contract and withdraw the product. Very unfortunate because I don’t think he meant what he said and I don’t think he’s a bad person it just came across that way.

“That meant we lost that business. One of the most successful collabs in history — very said. But again, when you work with third parties that can happen. It’s part of the game.”

Adidas reports a revenue of $437 million in the first release of leftover Yeezy sneakers from their nixed deal with Ye, formerly known as Kanye West. The first run of shoes hit online in June, selling out. The second run began to sell on Wednesday.

The sale of the sneakers was the efforts to empty their inventory responsibly. After the first launch, CEO Bjørn Gulden said, “We will continue to carefully sell off more of the existing Yeezy inventory,”

Adidas has also announced the donation of over 10 million euros to groups like the Anti-Defamation League, the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, and Robert Kraft’s Foundation to Combat Antisemitism.

According to Billboard, 20% to 25% of the stock was unloaded in the first sale.

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Nike Unveils Devin Booker’s Mirage V2 Sneakers in Ashen Slate Colorway

Nike Unveils Devin Booker's Mirage V2 Sneakers in Ashen Slate Colorway

Nike introduces the Mirage V2 sneakers, a departure from the bold Mirage edition, now sporting an Ashen Slate blue/grey hue. Designed for elite basketball performance and inspired by Devin Booker’s personal style and journey, the Mirage V2 incorporates lifestyle elements.

Drawing from the desert’s mirage effect, the sneakers feature a contrasting orange tongue and insoles reminiscent of the desert sky. Available in men’s sizes, the Mirage V2 will hit Foot Locker stores and online platforms on Thursday, Feb. 29.

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Designer Emma “The Stitch Gawd” McKee Partners with Chicago Bulls and Klarna to Design Sneaker for Benny The Bull

Designer Emma "The Stitch Gawd" McKee Partners with Chicago Bulls and Klarna to Design Sneaker for Benny The Bull

Klarna, the AI-powered global payments network and shopping assistant, unveils its latest collaboration with Chicago-based designer Emma “The Stitch Gawd” McKee. In partnership with the legendary Chicago Bulls, Klarna announces McKee as the designer of a special edition sneaker for the Bulls’ mascot, Benny The Bull. This initiative is part of Klarna’s ongoing partnership with the Bulls as their official shopping partner.

McKee, known for her work with Chicago icons like Chance the Rapper, will present the sneakers to Benny at The Bulls’ February 27 home game against the Detroit Pistons. The design pays homage to Chicago’s rich history, with elements representing the original Chicago Stadium and the city’s NBA championship wins. Klarna’s signature “Pay in Four” feature is also incorporated into the design.

I’m thrilled to partner with Klarna and design a shoe for Chicago’s most iconic mascot, Benny The Bull,” said McKee. “I love the city of Chicago and being able to create a shoe that’s a tribute to the city and represents the nostalgia of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s Bulls was such a great experience. The Benny shoes have all sorts of nods to the Chicago Stadium – namely, the original Benny The Bull shoes were all red, and so are these (with a hint of Klarna pink, of course). And the four gold stars are of course for the city of Chicago.”

The announcement marks the third consecutive year of Klarna’s collaboration with a Chicago creative for the Bulls’ mascot sneakers. Previous collaborations include Chuck Anderson and Don C. As part of the festivities, fans at the game will have the opportunity to receive limited-edition posters and custom Benny The Bull t-shirts. Additionally, select fans will receive surprise deliveries from Don C himself.

The Stitch Gawd also created a t-shirt for the Bulls, worn by guard Ayo Dosunmo upon arena arrival.

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“We’re excited to partner with ‘The Stitch Gawd’ on another exciting Benny The Bull sneaker collaboration,” said Megan Gokey, Head of B2C Marketing in North America and the United Kingdom, Klarna. “Her design is a nod to the history of the Bulls and the iconic Chicago Stadium, a place Chicago sports fans made memories for decades. In our partnership with the Bulls, Klarna is always looking to boost the fan experience and make shopping smoother within the United Center, and I think we’ve done just that in our third iteration of sneakers for Benny. From shopping with Klarna Smoooth Delivery to the chance to receive a surprise delivery from Don C, fans have a lot of exciting activity to look forward to at the February 27 game.”

“I’m thrilled to pass on this design project to my friend Emma ‘The Stitch Gawd,’” said Don C. “We both share a passion for design and for the city of Chicago, so this is the perfect project for us both. I can’t wait for Bulls fans to see the nostalgic shoe design she’s put together – I even used it as inspiration for the fourth iteration of my poster series with the Bulls.”

Emma McKee, also known as “The Stitch Gawd,” is celebrated for her cross-stitch designs for musicians, artists, and athletes. Raised in Kansas City, McKee has established herself as a prominent figure in Chicago’s music, sports, and entertainment community.

Klarna continues to demonstrate its commitment to Chicago and its vibrant creative scene through initiatives like these, fostering connections between art, sports, and commerce.

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