Footwear designers, shoes, sneakers — (Photo: Betsie Van Der Meer/Getty Images)

by Ahsan Washington

February 25, 2025

10 Black Footwear Brands That Stand On Style And Business

Fine footwear on the heels of fashion week.

On the heels of New York Fashion Week, it seems fitting to highlight Black-owned footwear fashion. BLACK ENTERPRISE curated 10 standout Black-owned footwear brands that shine with creativity and innovation. The footwear designers behind these brands are redefining the fashion landscape and proving that support of Black-owned businesses is essential to Black style and culture and to the economy and existence. Their bold designs and powerful messages continue to inspire, making an undeniable impact on the world of fashion.

Aminah Abdul Jillil

Aminah Abdul Jillil founded her luxury shoe brand in 2012, serving as its creative director. Renowned for its bold designs and signature oversized bows, the brand prioritizes quality and artistry. The high-end shoe brand caters to women and children and is available in over 50 countries, and has a partnership with Macy’s. Each design reflects Aminah’s background in dance, blending elegance with dynamic, statement-making silhouettes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AMINAH ABDUL JILLIL (@aminahjillil)

Brother Vellies

Creative director Aurora James founded Brother Vellies in 2013, introducing a footwear aesthetic that marries traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary luxury. The footwear company is mindful of preserving African design traditions while gaining global recognition. The brand offers a range of handcrafted shoe wear that includes boots, flats, heels, sandals, and mules, all made with high-quality materials. At a time when climate change is a concern, Brother Vellies has leaned into sustainability and ethical production when it comes to manufacturing its products.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BROTHER VELLIES (@brothervellies)

KAHMUNE

Kahmune has set a new standard in the footwear industry, celebrating diversity while delivering premium craftsmanship. Jamela Acheampong founded Kahmune in 2016 to reimagine the concept of “nude” in fashion after struggling to find shoes that matched her skin tone. The brand features handcrafted shoes in 10 unique shades of melanin that ensures inclusivity for buyers who are a diverse range of skin tones. The shoes are crafted in Italy, combining high-quality materials with timeless, sophisticated designs.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by True Nudes For All #NudeShoes (@kahmune)

Jessica Rich

Jessica Rich launched her self-titled brand in 2018. Rich created a sexy, chic, and stylish line of footwear for confident women. The collection can be bought at retailers nationwide and has led to a collaboration with Steve Madden. Rich gained industry recognition after winning the Footwear News Emerging Designer of the Year award, solidifying her emergence in the fashion industry.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JESSICA RICH™️ (@jessicarichofficial)

SIA Collection

Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, a bold, trendsetting footwear brand was introduced with a signature style that blends East and West Coast flavor. Devlin Carter founded SIA Collective bringing an innovative sneaker with dope heel designs. The footwear brand disrupts traditional shoe aesthetics with fresh, eye-catching styles. Each sneaker incorporates an element that makes SIA stand out and is a reflection of Carter’s personal journey. SIA Collective has a loyal following thanks to its creative and boundary-pushing approach. Distinctive designs are available for both men and women.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Devlin Carter (@sia_collective)

Sunni Sunni

Sunni Dixon taught himself the art of footwear design and crafted a fusion of class and street style, founding Sunni Sunni in 2020. The brand is inspired by Black culture and D.C.’s Chocolate City era. Sunni Sunni designs embody a bold aesthetic that challenges traditional fashion. The brand specializes in unisex boots and shoes. Sunni Sunni has carved out a distinct space in the footwear industry, redefining modern elegance with a cultural edge.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SUNNI SUNNI footwear (@sunnisunnistudio)

Armando Cabral

Armando Cabral, a model turned designer, launched his footwear brand in 2009, debuting a collection that emphasized quality design. Specializing in leather shoes, the brand is known for its thoughtful construction and attention to detail. Drawing inspiration from African heritage, Armando Cabral’s designs merge cultural elements with luxury, positioning the brand as a high-end name in footwear. Armando Cabral shoes are elegant and timeless pieces that are contenders in the luxury fashion footwear industry.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ARMANDO CABRAL (@armando_cabral)

Kendall Miles Designs

Kendall Miles founded her luxury footwear brand in 2015. The shoe line is handcrafted and made from premium materials like leather and fur. The footwear specializes in a variety of styles, including flats, boots, sandals, and pumps, all known for high quality and attention to detail. As a Black-owned business, Kendall Miles combines sophistication with exceptional artisan skills and establishes a strong presence in the luxury footwear market.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kendall Miles (@thekendallmiles)

Bydose

This luxury footwear brand, created for women by women, launched in 2019 by Diana Dube. Bydose is known for its sleek, minimalist design and offers elegant and fashionable footwear with a focus on simplicity and sophistication. Bydose combines premium craftsmanship with a modern, refined aesthetic. The brand has quickly gained attention for its timeless appeal and high-end, stylish shoes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BYDOSE (@bydose)

Joanne Vernay

Joanne Vernay is entirely vegan, using biodegradable fabrics in place of leather or polyurethane making it a brand that is eco-friendly in its design. The collection was created by shoe designer Dyandra Raye in 2018, and offers luxury design along with a focus on sustainability. The designs draw inspiration from fruits and vegetables. The high-end style and environmental awareness sets the brand apart in the luxury footwear market.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jo-Anne Vernay (@joannevernay)

Seva, Detroit, vegan, restaurant — (Photo: Roman Odintsov/Pexels)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 25, 2025

Popular Vegan Restaurant Seva Detroit Closing Due to Unsustainable Financial Challenges

Seva Detroit is closing after more than 10 years of serving the community delicious vegetarian and vegan comfort food.

Seva Detroit, one of the Motor City’s staple vegetarian and vegan restaurants, will close its doors on February 28.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, the popular restaurant announced on Facebook that closing is the result of “years of financial challenges since COVID.”

“We’ve reached a point where we can no longer sustain operations,” the statement read. “Seva Detroit has been more than just a place to eat — it has been a space for connection and community. We’ve cherished being part of your lives.

“If you’re able to visit this week, we would love to see you one last time. More than anything, we just want to say thank you. Thank you for your support, your kindness and for making Seva Detroit what it was. It has truly been an honor.”

Founded in 2011 and located at 66 E. Forest, Seva became a beloved spot known for its vegetarian and plant-based vegan dishes featuring Mexican, Thai, and other comfort food favorites. While the Detroit location is closing, the Ann Arbor location, which has been open since 1973, will remain open.

“We’ve cherished being part of your lives, whether it was for a quick lunch, a first date, a birthday celebration, or simply a place where you always knew you’d find a delicious meal and a familiar face,” the restaurant wrote.

“We are all going to miss you! Thank you for all the yummy eats,” one person wrote.

“So sad to hear this. You guys were my comfort spot throughout my time at WSU. I wish you all the absolute best,” another person added.

Another patron encouraged the community to come out and support Seva Restaurant in the days ahead of its closing.

“The best way you can help is to flood the store with purchases and encourage others to do the same,” they wrote.

Young Thug, Lil Woody, trial — Young Thug in 2021. (Photo: Derek White/WireImage)

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

February 25, 2025

Young Thug Back In Court To Reclaim His Cars, Cash, And Bling Seized In YSL Raid

The rapper had nearly $150K taken from him during his May 2022 arrest.

Young Thug wants the luxury items taken from during the YSL Raid returned to his possession.

According to WSB-TV, authorities allegedly took jewelry, luxury cars, and $149,426 in cash belonging to the rapper after they arrested him and his associates on racketeering charges. However, since Thug’s release in October after accepting a plea deal for the high-profile Georgia case, he wants his stuff back.

His attorneys filed a motion for the Fulton County courts to hold a hearing, but it was canceled for an unclear reason. The hearing was meant to occur on Feb. 21 before Judge Paige Whitaker, the second judge to oversee the case. The raid stripped Thug of many of his costly belongings, leaving his attorneys to press the issue.

Multiple cars under the rapper’s given name, Jeffrey Williams, are in the county’s possession. Listed are a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette, a 2022 Porsche 911, a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS Maybach, and two Mercedes-Benz AMG GTs.

The YSL RICO case made history as the longest-running criminal trial in Georgia history. Following the rapper’s arrest in May 2022, the trial began in November of the following year. It finally ended in December 2024, shortly after Thug, its main defendant, took the non-negotiated plea to walk away as a free man with time served.

However, upon his release, the “Lifestyle” rapper faced heavy restrictions. These included limitations on his entry into Metro Atlanta and the requirement that he host quarterly anti-violence lectures at Atlanta schools. While his ban from the Atlanta area currently stands for a decade, the 33-year-old has requested that the probation rules be clarified and amended so that he can visit his family home on the outskirts of the metro area.

Upon abiding by the probation rules, Judge Whitaker allowed Thug to travel to his residence and use the city’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. As for his quest to regain the items he had pre-arrest, it remains unclear if a new court date will surface.

Black Barbie, documentary, Netflix — Photo via Netflix

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

February 25, 2025

Black Barbie Celebrates 45th Anniversary With New Doll To Honor Original Designer

The doll's anniversary look pays tribute to its original design created by Kitty Black Perkins.

To celebrate the 45th anniversary of the first Black Barbie, Mattel has released a special edition of the prized doll, honoring its designer, Kitty Black Perkins.

Perkins designed the original Black Barbie in 1980, marking an inclusive version of the legendary toy. In tribute to her invaluable contribution to the Barbie Brand, the dolls pay tribute to Perkin’s vision.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MATTEL (@mattel)

The 2025 doll celebrates the rich heritage of Black Barbie through her dark brown skin and voluminous curly hair. The doll’s dress takes inspiration from its predecessor with its bright red color and off-shoulder design. The doll’s accessories include a gold cuff bracelet with a glossy red lip and heels to finish the look. The toy symbolizes beauty and pride in one’s features, a theme implemented since Perkin’s inaugural design.

Perkins studied fashion design at Los Angeles Trade Technical College before becoming the principal designer for Barbie in 1978. Two years later, Perkins pioneered the groundbreaking iteration of Barbie, representing Black girls worldwide.

“I wanted to create a doll that Black children could see themselves in,” explained Perkins of her legacy, reshared by WBLS.

Throughout her 28-year career at Mattel, Perkins amplified diversity and its importance for young children. She also contributed to the development of the “Shani and Friends” line of Black dolls in the 1990s. Her impact led to a documentary on Black Barbie and what the doll’s introduction symbolized for Black girls.

“Black Barbie was in the background of my childhood,” explained Ameirah Saafir, Ph.D., an adolescent studies professor and commentator in the film, as reported by the Fullerton Observer. “Black Barbie, she’s not just a doll. She’s a cultural icon that impacts representation and toys in media and what it means for identity development and personal development to see somebody that looks like you.”

The first Black Barbie also led to other Signature dolls that mark the achievement of Black women figures. From Aaliyah to Misty Copeland, the dolls inspire girls of color to strive for their greatest ambitions.

Just in time for Black History Month, the doll honors Perkins’ storied history of prioritizing diversity at Mattel. The 45th anniversary Black Barbie is on sale now at MattelCreations.com while supplies last and is also available at participating Target locations.

Watch Night, New Year's Eve, praying, Black church, slavery — (Getty Images)

by Sharelle B. McNair

February 24, 2025

30 Historically Black Churches Receive $8.5M In Grants From National Trust For Historic Preservation

Historic Black churches have been labeled as the cornerstones of communities for centuries....

Thirty historically Black churches of different denominations were named recipients of $8.5 million in grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to preserve historic African American sites, according to a press release sent to BLACK ENTERPRISE.

As part of the third annual Preserving Black Churches (PBC) grant program, 30 churches nationwide will be added to a $60 million initiative that gives church leadership and its congregation funding to protect their legacies and historic context with financial and technical expertise. With the 2025 grants ranging between $50,000 and $500,000, named these worship spaces will be able to address crucial preservation issues like threats of demolition, needed maintenance that may have been pushed aside, and more, in addition to giving resources to heighten stewardship plans, enhance asset management, and increase fundraising.

Historic Black churches across America have been labeled as the cornerstones of communities and “safe spaces” as they are considered faith centers amid social change. Their presence is looked upon for being resilient and playing a key role in shaping Black American history. Brent Leggs, executive director of the African American Cultural Heritage Fund, called the grant investment “an honor” as preserving the sites will help inspire a future generation. “We are honored to support the ongoing legacies of these churches, which have stood at the forefront of social progress for generations,” Leggs said.

“This $8.5 million investment marks a critical step in safeguarding historically Black churches as enduring symbols of faith, strength, and community leadership. By preserving them, we ensure that their powerful presence continues to live on in their communities and inspire future generations.”

Supported by Lilly Endowment Inc., the 2025 recipients include St.Paul United AME Church and the Historic Bethel Baptist Church Community in Birmingham, Alabama; Boynton United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas; the A.M.E. Zion Church in Charlotte, North Carolina; New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, and others.

Soapstone Baptist Church in Pickens County, South Carolina, also received $250,000 in grants from the program. The site grounds include a church, one-room school, slave cemetery, and rock outcrops used by the Cherokee nation for centuries for cooking.

In addition to the Soapstone Preservation Endowment (SPE), funding from PBC will help protect what leaders call a “special place in South Carolina history.” When we began our work, few believed that we could ever achieve an audacious $1 million goal. Yet, in less than three years and with the benefit of this generous award, we stand within sight of the finish line,” SPE Chairman Carlton Owen said.

“We have faith that God will continue to bless this important work as we seek to obtain the remaining $200,000 needed to forever protect and promote this special place in South Carolina history.”

New Jersey, Anchor tax relief program, 2024, 1500, stimulus, payments, checks — (Photo: Evgenia Parajanian/Getty Images)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 24, 2025

SBA Drops Efforts To Recover $155M In COVID Relief Grants Given To Celebrities

The SBA will not be reclaiming over $155 million in COVID relief funds given to celebrities.

The Small Business Administration has no plans to reclaim over $155 million in COVID relief grants awarded to successful artists and entertainers.

Public records obtained by Business Insider reveal that the federal government has not alleged any wrongdoing in the millions of taxpayer dollars received by Lil Wayne, Marshmello, Chris Brown, Alice in Chains, and other artists.

The funds were part of the $14 billion Congress set aside to support struggling arts groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the celebs spent the money on private jets, parties, luxury clothing, and multi-million dollar bonuses with little going to staff salaries or benefits.

Congress said the grants could legally be used for “ordinary and necessary” expenses and is sparing the wealthy celebs from any wrongdoing. Some of the largest recipients of Shuttered Venue Operators Grants were clients of NKSFB, a Los Angeles-based business management firm that claims to help “the world’s leading entertainers succeed financially.”

An email sent in December 2024 to an SBA employee revealed that over $155 million of the $216.6 million in grants allocated to NKSFB clients—more than 70%—had been “closed” after being fully reviewed. Another $61 million across 22 grants is still under review.

Many grant recipients won’t receive further communication from the SBA once they complete the closeout process. However, the agency’s FAQ materials indicate that a post-closure “monitoring” process, similar to an audit, can still occur. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), who chairs the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, has shared her plans to continue investigating any misuse of pandemic-related funds.

“Pandemic relief programs were designed to help small businesses keep their doors open and their employees afloat during an incredibly challenging time,” Ernst said. “Unfortunately, the more we learn, the more it is clear that taxpayers footed the bill for the extravagant lifestyles of the rich and famous.”

It is unclear which specific NKSFB clients’ grants have been closed out and which are still open. The firm is unable to disclose details about its clients’ finances.

by Derek Dingle

February 24, 2025

Ronald C. Parker, A Champion Of Diversity And Opportunity In Corporate America, Dies At 70

He is survived by his wife, Paula and three children.

Corporate leaders across the globe are mourning the loss of Ronald C. Parker, the fierce diversity advocate who carved pathways for Black executives, among others, to ascend to the highest levels. Due to his leadership prowess, he rose to senior vice president of Human Resources, Labor Relations, and Global Diversity & Inclusion at PepsiCo. Throughout much of that period, he served as an indefatigable, unwavering champion for advancing diverse executives and promoting efforts to ensure opportunities were available for all. After he retired from PepsiCo in 2010, he continued his mission, taking the helm of The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the pre-eminent organization of Black global executives, and then served as president and CEO of the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), the premier organization focused on access and talent development for Blacks, minorities, and women within the financial services sector. His dedication to advocacy and service earned him recognition as a recipient of the 2024 BLACK ENTERPRISE Lifetime Diversity Crusader Award.

His sudden death at the age of 70 was announced Feb. 22nd. Maurice Cox, his close friend for more than four decades and the retired vice president for Diversity & Inclusion Development for PepsiCo said Parker’s passing was “a shock to all of us…totally unexpected.”

According to TCU Magazine, Parker was raised in Brenham, Texas, a town of 18,000 between Austin and Houston, where his family raised cattle and planted cotton and corn. He started school during an era of segregation but later emerged as a student leader amid integration at Brenham High School, serving as captain of his high school football team, a member of the basketball team, and class president during his senior year. After a stint at Blinn College, based in Brenham, he transferred to Texas Christian University on a football scholarship. After earning a degree in political science, Parker was drafted by the Chicago Bears. A knee injury during his rookie season sidelined his pro football career. Forced to leave the gridiron, he decided to turn his focus to business.

During his tenure at PepsiCo, the then-$60 billion soft drink and snack foods manufacturer, he would chair the Global Diversity and Inclusion Council. In that role, he shaped the strategic plans for corporate diversity and inclusion efforts, including companywide goal setting, engagement of employee resource groups, and development of external partnerships. Throughout his professional career, he was known for fairness and putting people first — even when he led more than 30 labor contract negotiations during his tenure.

Cox, who worked closely with Parker for 43 years, said, “I can’t overstate the value of having a true visionary as a colleague and friend,” he maintained. “We worked together as a team and fought many battles. What we learned from each other is that you are only as good as the credits that you have.” Taking note of that philosophy, Cox asserted that Parker’s approach was driven by two critical factors: capability and accountability. “It allowed us to have a seat at the table and serve in an outsized role.”

Steve Williams, CEO of PepsiCo North America, stated, “Ron dedicated nearly 30 years to PepsiCo…Throughout his career, he held multiple leadership roles across the company, shaping our people strategy and fostering a culture of growth and inclusion. A people-first leader, he was deeply committed to mentorship, leadership development, and creating opportunities for others — values that continue to influence our organization.”

Beyond PepsiCo, Ron remained a tireless advocate for equity and leadership. He was a founding member of PepsiCo’s partnership with The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) and later served as its President and CEO, working to elevate Black executives in corporate America. He was also a dedicated leader at Texas Christian University (TCU), his alma mater, serving on the Board of Trustees and playing a key role in shaping the university’s future, among other leadership roles.

When he retired from PepsiCo, Parker would broaden his impact through ELC, where he drove efforts to build the ranks of Black C-suite executives and corporate board members.

He also made significant contributions as a member of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, the Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board of Procter & Gamble, and the Howard University School of Business Board of Visitors.

He is survived by his wife, Paula, and three children.

damon dash, bowling alley, bankruptcy, florida — (Photo: Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Damon Dash Studios)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 24, 2025

Damon Dash Accused Of Defying Court Orders In Josh Webber Lawsuit

The latest ruling threatens to add a bigger financial burden on the ex-Roc-A-Fella Records owner.

Damon Dash was handed a default judgment on Tuesday, Feb. 18, after the Roc-A-Fella co-founder violated various court orders in his ongoing lawsuit with filmmaker Josh Webber.

Judge John F. Walter said Dash failed to follow basic courtroom procedures, including not filing key legal documents, dodging a court-ordered mediation, and ignoring deadlines.

Walter gave Webber and his legal team until March 3 to submit the proof of damages caused by Dash’s behaviors. In the original lawsuit, Webber won a judgment of $805,000, which includes interest and attorney fees. That award will be higher depending on what the legal team comes back with next month.

The legal drama stems from a years-long fight over the movie, Dear Frank, which Dash initially worked on but was later removed from due to allegations of unprofessional behavior on set.

Dash continued to promote the film as his own, even trying to sell it under the title The List, AllHipHop reported.

This comes two months after author Edwyna Brooks, who won a judgment against Dash in 2020, went back to court to collect a judgment Dash owes her from a failed countersuit he filed.

In her latest suit, according to the New York Post, Dash has been hiding his money to avoid paying her. Brooks initially won a $300,000 copyright infringement case against Dash after she said that Dash marketed and sold a film project based on one of her characters, a female crime boss from a book series she wrote, Mafietta.

He countersued and lost. With the non-payment of the judgment, Brooks claims Dash owes her close to $100,000 with interest.

Brooks’ attorney, Chris Brown, who is also handling Webber’s case, alleges that Dash and his company, Poppington LLC, tried to hide his assets by moving them to a company not named in the suit.

Super Bowl ring — (Photo: Cards84664, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 24, 2025

Plaxico Burress’ Super Bowl XLII Ring Sells For Record-Breaking $280K

The Giants wide receiver played a crucial role in the historic win.

New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress’s Super Bowl ring was sold for a record $280,600 during a Feb. 9 auction.

According to Sports Illustrated, the hero of the Giants’ Super Bowl XLII win over a heavily favored (and undefeated) New England Patriots team had put up his ring to be auctioned through Heritage Auctions in Dallas.

The winning bid surpassed the previous high: $230,000 for Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl XXV ring. Taylor also played for the New York Giants.

BREAKING: Plaxico Burress’ Giants Super Bowl ring has just sold for $280,600 at @HeritageAuction.

It is the highest ever paid for a Super Bowl player ring, beating out Lawrence Taylor’s Giants ring from Super Bowl XXV ($230K). pic.twitter.com/VZeFb8pVJt

— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) February 23, 2025

Heritage Auctions placed the item on the auction block and listed the ring with a certification letter from Burress confirming that it is the original ring given to him after the Super Bowl victory in 2008.

The letter was dated 11/16/2024 and signed by the former football player.

“I received this actual ring as a member of the New York Giants who won Super Bowl XLII held February 3, 2008, against the New England Patriots in Phoenix, AZ,” the letter read. “I further certify this ring is the one and only ring and that no duplicate copies were produced.”

The ring was described as having a monochromatic design made entirely from white gold and genuine diamonds. There were three Lombardi Trophies, which showcased each Super Bowl victory for the Giants with the team’s “NY” logo and the words “World Champions” in raised text. The Super Bowl XLII logo was displayed on the ring as well as the score of the game, “NYG 17, NE 14.”

In that game, Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw a 13-yard pass to Burress with less than a minute left in the game, completing a come-from-behind victory for the team.

A$AP Rocky, HOMMEMADE Back.Space.LA — (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/WireImage)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 24, 2025

Hip-Hop Fashionista A$AP Rocky Becomes Ray-Ban’s First Creative Director

'I’m excited to be part of the strong heritage and develop the next chapter for an iconic brand like Ray-Ban.'

After being found not guilty in a recent trial, A$AP Rocky has just been named Ray-Ban’s first creative director.

EssilorLuxottica reveals that the hip-hop fashionista will lead the direction for the Ray-Ban brand going forward. The first collection under the direction of A$AP Rocky will be the ‘Blacked Out Collection,’ which will debut in April 2025.

“Introducing fashion innovator and entrepreneur @asaprocky as the first Creative Director for @rayban. Known for his trendsetting influence in both the music and fashion industries, Rocky will bring his distinctive vision to #RayBanStudios, guiding creative projects and shaping the future of the brand’s image & design. ⁣
⁣
#WeAreEssilorLuxottica”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by EssilorLuxottica (@essilorluxottica)

Included in Rocky’s duties, he will be directing advertising and promotional campaigns and redesigning Ray-Ban stores while incorporating music, fashion, and the arts.

In a written statement to The Hollywood Reporter, the recording artist said, “I’ve always admired Ray-Ban’s ability to stay true to its roots while constantly evolving. I’m excited to be part of the strong heritage and develop the next chapter for an iconic brand like Ray-Ban.”

Rocky will soon release his fourth studio album, ‘Don’t Be Dumb.’ The brand is looking forward to Rocky’s new creative journey for Ray-Ban Studios, the platform launched in 2016 to celebrate music’s power and courageous artists’ stories.

“For nearly 80 years, the brand has been on the faces of the most iconic musicians, artists, actors, and heroes — shaping and re-shaping the status quo, leading cultural revolutions of all the times,” said Del Vecchio. “Today, we welcome A$AP Rocky into our family; he’s a visionary artist and creator. His ability to push the boundaries of the diverse worlds he explores aligns with the Ray-Ban DNA. We reinforce the brand’s values of innovation, pioneering spirit, and courage.”

A Los Angeles jury found A$AP Rocky not guilty of two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. Rocky beat the charges after his former friend, A$AP Relli, alleged that he shot at him during a heated discussion on Nov. 6, 2021. Rocky’s attorney argued that Rocky did fire the shots, but it was from a prop gun. A$AP Mob member A$AP Twelvyy testified to that point.