Kendrick Lamar has officially joined the ranks of Chanel’s brand ambassadors, marking a major milestone in the luxury brand’s commitment to expanding its appeal in the world of fashion and eyewear. The American rapper, renowned for his groundbreaking achievements including being the first and only rapper to win a Pulitzer Prize, will be the face of Chanel’s eyewear line. His partnership with the French luxury house is set to kick off with a new eyewear campaign launching later this week.
The Partnership Begins
Lamar’s connection with Chanel dates back to 2023 when he attended the Met Gala in honour of Karl Lagerfeld. At the event, Lamar made a bold statement wearing a custom quilted leather bomber designed by Chanel’s then-creative director, Virginie Viard. Following that memorable appearance, the rapper continued to collaborate with the brand, contributing to the January 2024 haute couture show. He designed an illuminated Chanel medallion and produced a short film titled The Button, further solidifying his relationship with the iconic brand.
Chanel has previously been selective with its male ambassadors, having signed notable figures such as Korean singer G-Dragon and actor Timothée Chalamet. However, Lamar’s role as the face of the eyewear division marks a new chapter in the brand’s engagement with male celebrity ambassadors.
Kendrick Lamar’s Eyewear Campaign
The debut eyewear campaign, set to be shot by renowned photographer Karim Sadli, is anticipated to showcase Lamar’s unique style and connection to the brand’s legacy. Reflecting on his partnership with Chanel, Lamar stated, “Chanel has a timeless legacy and that is always something I can get behind. Since they don’t make clothes for men, I knew it would have to be glasses.”
Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanel’s fashion president, shared the brand’s vision for eyewear, stating, “We strongly believe in eyewear and its potential. More than a simple fashion accessory, eyewear is part of the Chanel allure. Its versatile style, playing with the house codes, brings a finishing touch to the silhouette.”
A Creative Force
Lamar, 37, continues to push boundaries with his work. With 22 Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize under his belt, he has firmly established himself as one of the most influential figures in modern music. His 2017 album DAMN. earned him widespread acclaim, while his 2012 breakthrough album good kid, m.A.A.d city solidified his place in the music industry. Lamar is also the co-founder of creative studio PGlang, which he runs with his longtime collaborator Dave Free. The studio has won six Cannes Lions awards, further showcasing Lamar’s creative versatility and entrepreneurial spirit.