For 14 years, Sprayground’s founder David BenDavid (DBD) has been boldly redefining the travel fashion landscape with a daring fusion of fluid prints, expressive graphics, and convention-defying designs. This pioneering spirit has yielded an array of thought-provoking collections and collaborations that have reimagined the streetwear scene, all infused with the brand’s inimitable style.
With a rich history that spans from humble beginnings in NYC to its current status as one of the most coveted fashion brands born in the 21st century, Sprayground is celebrating its anniversary with a unique collection that looks to the future while honoring its heritage. DBD has designed each piece in this drop to incorporate the brand’s unique aesthetics, ensuring that every bag will become a sought-after staple in any fashion enthusiast’s collection.
The collection features 100 new designs in the form of backpacks, tote bags, and mini backpacks, including collaborations with beloved childhood cartoons like SpongeBob, Pink Panther, The Powerpuff Girls, Pac-Man, and more. Each piece is carefully crafted to incorporate the brand’s unique aesthetic.
Sprayground’s best-selling backpacks boast multiple pockets, ergonomic mesh back padding, a separate laptop compartment, and velour compartments. This fusion of style and practicality makes them the ultimate choice for those seeking both functionality and fashion.
This collection promises to be a spectacle like no other, unleashing a symphony of design, artistry, and dynamic innovation. Whether you’re a devoted follower of Sprayground’s unparalleled legacy or a curious newcomer, this collection will transport you into a realm where creativity knows no bounds.
Spraygrounds 14th Anniversary Collection will be available to purchase on June 13, 2024 at www.sprayground.com and exclusive boutiques worldwide.
ESPN has partnered with October’s Very Own (OVO) to release a limited-edition run of NBA Finals jackets, available exclusively through the OVO app. This collaboration marks a unique blend of sports and fashion, capturing the excitement of the NBA’s grand finale.
The jackets will be available for purchase starting at 10 a.m. ET on Thursday, June 6. U.S. residents can snag this exclusive apparel through the OVO app, downloadable from both the App Store and Google Play. Given the limited quantity, fans are encouraged to act quickly, as these jackets are expected to sell out fast.
Featuring the iconic ESPN and OVO logos prominently on the back, these jackets symbolize the intersection of sports and fashion, celebrating the NBA’s biggest stage. The release of these jackets coincides with the highly anticipated NBA Finals matchup between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks, airing at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC beginning June 6.
This collaboration is a testament to the growing influence of fashion in the sports world, offering fans a stylish way to commemorate the finale of another thrilling NBA season. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or a fashion enthusiast, the ESPN x OVO NBA Finals jacket is a must-have piece for your collection.
As anticipation builds for the next episode of “Royal Rules of Ohio,” viewers are in for a thrilling ride. Episode 104, titled “Rule #4: Royals Don’t Go Rogue,” promises drama, surprises, and pivotal moments for the royal sisters. Thelma faces GS at the Black Alumni Reunion, Auntie Sheilah’s kickback becomes the stage for Abigail’s unexpected appearance, and the sisters make a permanent decision that will leave Akili and Delali stunned.
In an exclusive interview with The Source, the chocolate beauties shared their experiences growing up as descendants of Ghanaian royalty, their journey to Columbus, Ohio, and the challenges and triumphs they face balancing their noble heritage with everyday modern life.
1. Can you each tell us what it was like growing up as daughters of royal descendants in Ghana and how that shaped your experiences living in Columbus, Ohio?
Nana: We were not privy to our royal lineage until we were teenagers. We realized that we must hold ourselves to a different standard than we once had. Learning that we are royal descendants was a pivotal moment that shaped our understanding of who we are and the responsibilities that came with it.
2. “Royal Rules of Ohio” offers a glimpse into the double lives you lead. How do you balance the expectations of your noble heritage with your personal ambitions and modern lifestyles?
Brenda: We do a good job of balancing our noble heritage and our personal ambitions by remembering that it’s okay to be selfish and put yourself first. Yes, we are royal, however, we still want to create a legacy for ourselves.
3. The series shows a lot of opulence and luxury but also touches on the responsibilities that come with your background. How do you manage the pressures of upholding your family’s reputation while pursuing your individual goals?
Thelma: For me, as the oldest, I have to make sure I am a leader and also be a role model to my sisters and the young girls here in Columbus. When it comes to my family’s reputation, we try to never make mistakes in the public eye. One mistake we make and the whole community will come at our necks.
4. What has been the most challenging aspect of allowing cameras to capture your daily lives and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of your family?
Nana: The most challenging aspect of filming was adjusting to the cameras. In the beginning, we were all camera aware – worried that we may say something wrong. But we began to feel comfortable with the crew and at some points, we forgot the cameras were there.
5. Your show highlights the cultural richness and traditions of Ghanaian royalty. How important is it for you to share and preserve these traditions while living in the United States?
Brenda: It’s really important to showcase our culture in America because it ties us back to the motherland. We display our culture through our clothing, the food, and even the language we speak. Although we are Ghanaian we still wear our American clothing as well to highlight that duality.
6. Each of you brings a unique personality and perspective to the show. How do you think these differences contribute to the dynamic and appeal of “Royal Rules of Ohio”?
Nana: More often than not, people cling to what is familiar to them. What they fail to see is the beauty that can come from being different. Because we are unique in our own way there is always someone that the viewers can connect to. Our individual personalities make us unique in a way that the world hasn’t seen before.
7. The show touches on themes of identity, heritage, and responsibility. What do you hope viewers, especially young women of African descent, take away from your stories?
Thelma: We hope for viewers, especially young women of African descent, to feel empowered by seeing my sisters and I navigate complex themes of identity, heritage, and responsibility. We hope viewers find strength in embracing their unique identities, understanding their heritage, and feeling empowered.
8. Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future, both individually and collectively as a family, and how could you see “Royal Rules of Ohio” evolving in future seasons?
Nana: Personally, I hope the viewers will get a chance to see how passionate I am about the arts. I am an aspiring actress who really enjoys sharing stories that are authentic and truthful. As a family, I want the viewers to continue to see the love we all share for each other. We may have our individual disagreements and arguments, but the love will never fade.
Don’t miss the next episode of “Royal Rules of Ohio” to witness the unfolding drama and the powerful dynamics of this unique royal family. Tune in to see how Thelma, Brenda, and Nana navigate their dual lives and the shocking decision that will leave everyone talking.
Sprayground, the celebrity-favorite travel fashion brand, is making a pit stop to elevate Formula E fashion with its newest collaboration featuring track titans Porsche and Jaguar. This collaboration packs an energetic edge three artistically-designed bags that redefine the contemporary style of Formula E with an iconic motorsport bloodline.
The collection features three backpacks inspired by the cars seen racing on its dynamic circuits. Each backpack incorporates Sprayground’s iconic shark-mouth design and is tailored to the respective brand’s color scheme and identity.
● The Formula-E backpack pays homage to the adrenaline-pumping world of Formula E. It draws inspiration from the high-speed all-electric racing and comes in a sleek, black vegan leather with signature blue-green embellishments.
● Porsche’s backpack showcases elegance and precision in an adorned red, black and white design, showcasing the German car company’s logo and race numbering.
● Jaguar’s backpack completes the collection with black, white, and gold panels that capture the essence of Jaguar’s renowned signature style. It is perfectly finished with their famous logo and race number.
An innovative feature of these backpacks is the LED lighting incorporated into the design, powered by a battery system. This feature not only adds a unique aesthetic appeal but also enhances visibility and safety in low-light conditions.
Sprayground initially grabbed worldwide attention with the ‘Hello My Name’ backpack over 13 years ago. Sprayground’s founder, David BenDavid (DBD), aimed to create a brand that reflected his childhood and upbringing. Growing up exposed to the streetwear and art scene, DBD harnessed that inspiration into creativity now admired worldwide.
The Formula E collection will be available online at www.sprayground.com and exclusive boutiques nationwide this June 2, 2024.
Iconic rapper and entrepreneur Soulja Boy has once again collaborated with renowned travel fashion brand Sprayground, unveiling a new backpack that perfectly embodies his high-energy lifestyle and extravagant persona. The SOULJA BOY ANIME DRIFTER COLLAB BACKPACK features a striking anime-style illustration of Soulja Boy’s face, adorned with gleaming gold chains. This eye-catching design is set against a backdrop of shiny cars and stacks of money, encapsulating the essence of luxury and success that Soulja Boy represents. The name “Draco” is boldly displayed across the bottom in block print, adding a powerful finishing touch to this standout piece.
This collaboration follows the success of last year’s joint venture, which saw the release of a four-piece collection that sold out within seconds. The previous collection included two backpacks, the highly-coveted Sprayground Money Bear dressed as Soulja Boy, and an exquisite jewelry case. The overwhelming demand for these items set the stage for this year’s highly anticipated release.
Sprayground, known for its innovative designs and high-quality materials, has delivered once again with the “Draco” backpack. This collaboration not only brings a unique artistic flair but also ensures practical functionality. The backpack features multiple compartments, durable construction, and comfortable straps, making it perfect for everyday use or as a collector’s item for fans.
Sprayground initially captured worldwide attention with the ‘Hello My Name’ backpack over 13 years ago. Founder David BenDavid (DBD) aimed to create a brand that reflected his childhood and upbringing, drawing inspiration from the streetwear and art scene. This creative vision has since gained global admiration.
The Anime Drifter backpack is available online at Sprayground and in exclusive boutiques nationwide. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of this dynamic collaboration that blends fashion, functionality, and the bold spirit of Soulja Boy.
Champion®, the iconic brand that created the world’s first hoodie over 80 years ago, is set to launch a groundbreaking innovation this Mental Health Awareness Month: the Champion Weighted Hoodie. Scheduled to hit stores and online platforms in September, this new product is designed to support mental health through the scientifically proven benefits of worn pressure.
The Champion Weighted Hoodie weighs 8 pounds, distributing weight evenly across the arms, chest, back, and hood. This design mirrors the therapeutic effects of weighted blankets, known to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and various neurodivergent conditions.
“As a lifestyle brand born from sport, our purpose is to Champion a better tomorrow and support meaningful causes through innovation,” said Vanessa LeFebvre, Global President at Champion. “For me, the creation of the Weighted Hoodie prototype represents another step in our pursuit of crafting products with purpose that catalyze real impact. We are committed to listening to what our consumers and communities want and creating solutions through our products. The Weighted Hoodie is a perfect example of that, as mental health concerns and daily life stress is a consistent throughline in our community listening. The inspiration for this came not only from our consumers, but from witnessing people in our own lives using weighted products for comfort. We want people to speak about mental health and destigmatize the needs that these products can meet. Champion is committed to giving individuals the support they need with adaptive fashion.”
Key features of the Champion Weighted Hoodie include premium, non-toxic microglass beads that are odor-free and machine washable. The hoodie is also reversible, offering a textural, quilted, soft, smooth side to provide diverse sensory experiences. An innovative stowaway label pocket caters to those with sensory sensitivities, ensuring comfort and practicality. An extra-long cotton drawcord is also incorporated to help those with fidgeting tendencies.
“While the benefits of weighted products for neurodivergent populations and those affected by certain mental health conditions have been widely studied, we’re finding that this category of adaptive clothing can actually serve a far larger population,” says Dr. Kerri McBee-Black, Assistant Professor and Helen Allen Faculty Fellow in the Textile and Apparel Management Department at the University of Missouri. “Feelings of ‘comfort, safety, and security’ are among the most common terms showing up in our research for the Champion Weighted Hoodie prototype, feelings that anyone can benefit from. My team and I are eager to continue evolving the functionality of weighted wearables, and also explore new avenues of accessible and adaptive apparel that can have a massive impact on the community at large.”
Maintaining Champion’s legacy of quality, the hoodie is crafted from the brand’s signature Reverse Weave Fabric, known for its cozy vintage comfort. The proprietary C Onion Quilt construction ensures the weight is balanced perfectly, enhancing the hoodie’s therapeutic benefits.
The Champion Weighted Hoodie represents a significant step forward in combining fashion with mental health support, reinforcing Champion’s commitment to innovation and well-being.
On Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, the Brooklyn Museum became a hub of creativity and nostalgia as Champion unveiled the next chapter of their “Champion What Moves You” global brand campaign with the “No Permission” Collection. This one-day-only exhibit celebrated Champion’s influential role in streetwear fashion and its commitment to fostering the next generation of creators.
Champion, known for its iconic blanks used by early designs from Supreme, Pyrex Vision by Virgil Abloh, Kith, BAPE, and Stussy, honored this rich history by showcasing these brands’ original works. These brands famously used Champion’s garments without seeking permission, contributing to the brand’s legendary status in the streetwear world.
The exhibit did not only look back but also forward, featuring designs by emerging creators who embody the no-permission ethos. This collection inspired attendees to pursue their creative visions without constraints, aligning with Champion’s legacy of unbridled creativity.
Guests at the event were treated to an interactive experience. They received Champion blanks and had the chance to customize their own designs on-site, embracing the spirit of DIY fashion that Champion has long supported. This hands-on activity allowed attendees to connect with the brand’s history while contributing to its future.
In addition to the interactive elements, the exhibit’s pieces will be available in limited quantities through social media-driven giveaways later this month, offering fans a chance to own a piece of streetwear history.
Scott “DJ Skee” Keeney, founder of The Realest, highlighted the exhibit’s importance: “Champion has always been a silent yet powerful force in streetwear. By officially embracing and celebrating the no-permission culture, they are not only honoring their past but also encouraging a future where creativity knows no bounds.”
The “No Permission” Collection was more than just an exhibit; it was a movement that celebrated Champion’s influential past while paving the way for future innovators. The Brooklyn Museum buzzed with excitement and inspiration, as attendees left with a renewed sense of creativity and connection to Champion’s enduring legacy.
Champion’s event was a resounding success, reminding everyone that the spirit of streetwear is rooted in authenticity and the courage to create without asking for permission.
PUMA Hoops and basketball superstarLaMelo Ball are dropping their first-ever co-designed lifestyle shoe –LaFrancé.
Launching in the “Amour” colorway (the first of many LaFrancé colorways to come), LaFrancé has been dropped alongside a few apparel pieces, including graphic tees, a mesh tank, short, and track pants, ranging from $40-$110. LaFrancé and accompanying pieces are now available at PUMA.com, the PUMA mobile app, the PUMA NYC Flagship store and at Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs and select retailers worldwide.
Created through intimate collaboration between LaMelo Ball and the PUMA design team, the LaFrancé gets its inspiration and name from LaMelo’s namesake lifestyle brand, which fuses different inspirations from streetwear fashion, sport and lifestyle. The supersized sneaker features exaggerated proportions, a chunky zig-zag lace closure, ultra-wide laces, and a well-padded tongue for ultimate comfort. “LF” and “La France” can be found on the mega tongue as well as imprinted into the latest silhouettes ultra-thick sole. The classic cup sole has been spiced up with floating ovals throughout, which are decorated with iconic graphics. Upper ovals on the midsole encapsulate design aspects of a butterfly, symbolizing Melo’s 1 of 1 lifestyle.
On his new sneaker, NBA superstar LaMelo Ball said, “I wanted to create a lifestyle shoe that represents my style and 1-of-1 personality. The LaFrancé Amour is something crazy loud to wear off court. The butterfly midsole, inspired by my tattoos, represents good energy.”
Mary J. Blige, the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, has made a mark not only in music but also in the world of fashion. On Saturday night at her “Strength of a Woman” festival at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., Blige unveiled her latest venture—a collaboration with renowned shoe designer Giuseppe Zanotti. The highlight of the collection? The ‘Giuseppe for Mary J. Blige’ boot, an over-the-knee style boasting a bold block heel and a striking mirrored rose gold finish.
Mary J Blige rose gold slouchy boot
Blige, known for her signature style and penchant for statement boots, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the significance of this project for her fans and community. “My fans have been waiting for a boot from me for a long time, so I knew when I did it, it had to be right,” Blige stated. “From start to finish, Giuseppe just understood what I wanted and helped make this idea a reality.”
Priced at $1,295, the ‘Mary’ boot is set to hit stores on May 11, available for purchase both online at giuseppezanotti.com and at the Giuseppe Zanotti boutique in Atlanta. For Blige, boots have always been more than just a fashion statement—they symbolize strength and confidence. “Boots have always made me feel strong,” she explained. “There is something about putting on a statement boot that makes you feel ready to take on your day.”
Giuseppe Zanotti, renowned for his skill and creativity in footwear design, echoed Blige’s sentiments about the collaboration. “Mary is fierce, and she has a strong personality and unique sense of style,” Zanotti commented. “When I create something for Mary, I focus on enhancing her creative mood with designs that align with her music and her persona.”
This collaboration marks a significant moment in the fusion of music and fashion, showcasing the power of two icons joining forces to create something truly special.
In a fusion of urban style and timeless elegance, Simone I. Smith Jewelry has teamed up with fashion visionary Misa Hylton to unveil an extraordinary collaboration: the SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds Collection. These new doorknockers offer an upgraded sophistication set to become the ultimate statement pieces for all the fashionable around-the-way girls. Available in two distinct shapes, these earrings are revolutionizing contemporary jewelry with their unique blend of denim and diamonds.
The Simone Doorknockers
The Misa Doorknockers boast brilliant simulated diamonds set in 18K yellow gold-plated triangle bamboo designs, adorned with hand-crafted denim enamel stations. On the other hand, the Simone Doorknockers feature the same dazzling simulated diamonds, this time set in 18K yellow gold-plated rectangle bamboo designs, also accented with denim enamel stations.
This groundbreaking collaboration seamlessly merges Simone I. Smith’s signature craftsmanship with Misa Hylton’s innovative designs, resulting in a collection that exudes sophistication, glamour, and urban flair. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each piece in the Denim and Diamonds collection offers a refreshing take on contemporary jewelry, blending the rugged charm of denim with the luxurious sparkle of diamonds.
The Misa Doorknockers
The ladies held a press preview for their new collection filled with sophistication and entertainment, as guests dressed in their finest Denim and Diamonds attire. From custom bedazzled denim hats to a gift bag of Simone I. Smith goodies, attendees were treated to an inspiring and uplifting evening. Delectable bites, including lobster rolls, crab cakes, and steak bites, paired with special cocktails, added to the ambiance of the event.
The Source Magazine, journalist Courtney Brown had the opportunity to chat with Simone I. Smith about her inspiration behind the collection and her passion for representing the community.
Courtney Brown (CB): When I looked at your site I instantly caught the inspiration. But when I saw the dolphin earrings, I was like, ‘yo, she was there.’
Simone I. Smith (SS) You know I was there. (laughs) I was there. I was there.
CB: What made you go that route to put hip-hop staples and include them within your line?
SS: Well, first of all, when I designed, so when me and Mary partnered, she’s one of my best friends, just like Misa, and we partnered up, we have a partnership and we have a business called Sister Love. And because Mary grew up in Yonkers, I grew up in Queens, we both grew up in the hip-hop era. And it was all about those big statement pieces. So I was like, we need to bring back all of the door knockers from back in the days. I don’t know how many of them we’ve launched now. I don’t know, maybe 20 pair, but we keep finding them. And then we just modernize them. They’re like sterling silver, 18 karat gold, but they’re high polished. You know, like back in the day, they were more kind of like a dull. It was like a dull gold.
CB: I love the quality too.
SS: Yeah, but it’s because those earrings just never went out of style. I always had a pair of bamboo earrings, always had a pair of triangle earrings. And you know, when we just decided to do it, we were both two girls from New York that grew up in the hip-hop era. You know, and she’s the queen. She’s the queen of hip-hop R&B, I think is what Mary’s title is. And me, I’m the queen of hoops. So, you know, so, but Mary was my number one, so like her and Misa, when I launched sis, Mary and Misa, they always wore my earrings.
CB: Is she wearing them on the hit series Power?
SS: Absolutely. That’s all Sister Love on power. Right. And then, so then, we just, you know, it was our goal to just bring the big, bold, pay homage to the late 80s, the mid to late 80s, and just continue to do that because, you know, we want women to feel good and also to show that women can work together. Because so many women, women can be very catty, you know that.
CB: Yes, yes.
SS: But women can work together. So Mary and I have our partnership. Misa and I, we have our collaboration. Our first drop is Denim and Diamonds. That’s the one that we have named Denim and Diamonds. And then these are Simone.
CB: These are my favorite!
SS: These are Simone.. And the triangle ones that Misa has on, those are the Misas.
CB: And when I saw the Nefertiti pendant! I just asked my friend, ‘Why aren’t the men repping us anymore?’… Remember how the men used to wear the Nefertiti?
SS: They used to rock us.
CB: The men used to rock us.
SS: What’s my boy on Power? Neek! Neek is rocking the Nefertiti. We got to give him props for that.
CB: Yes, we got to give Neek props.
After exchanging a few dabs like the cool girls did back in the day—I was instantly connected to Mrs.Smith’s grace, kindness and charm.
With its blend of urban edge and timeless elegance, the SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds collection is set to revolutionize contemporary jewelry, offering statement pieces that resonate with the spirit of the hip-hop era.
