Iconic American luxury fashion brand Michael Kors and luxe Italian sportswear brand ellesse are coming together to celebrate the athletic styles of the 70s.
The collaboration is fronted by model Emily Ratajkowski, Brooklyn-based rap musician Jay Critch and an all-star cast. The collection’s vibrant, sporty and glamorous designs are brought to life by renowned fashion photographer Lachlan Bailey and styled by Mel Ottenberg, editor-in-chief of cult pop magazine Interview.
Captured on a court in the heart of vibrant, sun-soaked Miami, the campaign celebrates the confident, optimistic and energetic DNA of Michael Kors and ellesse. Appearing alongside Ratajkowski and Critch—whose beats provide the background track for the shoot and video—are models Lexi Boling, Herzen Clerge, Lucas Ucedo as well as ellesse ambassador Wolftyla and top Japanese internet sensation Kemio.
Launching in May, the Michael Kors x ellesse capsule offers a luxurious and modern take on retro athleisure. Evoking the bold attitude and confidence of vintage lifestyle looks, the 24-piece capsule collection is emblazoned with a one-of-a-kind insignia, fusing the iconic Michael Kors logo with ellesse’s tennis-and-ski-inspired emblem. A waved pattern featuring the collaboration logo can be found on the bags and accessories of the lifestyle collection.
Adding a fresh design twist, ellesse’s signature colour palette of fiery oranges and reds is juxtaposed with classic shades of navy blue and crisp white. The bold track jackets and pants, vintage-style swimsuits and playful patterns, chunky sneakers, logo slides and neon bucket hats celebrate a modern take on classic styles. Kors’ must-have Hudson backpack and Bradshaw shoulder bag offer the perfect finishing touches.
The capsule collection will be brought to life in a series of pop-up installations and activations around the world.
Simon Breckon, Global Brand Director, ellesse, says: “We’re excited to do this collection because we saw the opportunity for Italian flair to meet American Spirit, bringing glamour and street style to life. We hope the capsule brings desirability to seasonal tennis looks off the court in a more fashion-forward, sophisticated way.”
The capsule collection launches on 9th May and will be available at michaelkors.com and ellesse.com.
