J. Cole Collaborates with Bally on Fall Collection

J. Cole can add designer to his résumé. The Roc Nation rapper has collaborated with Swiss luxury brand Bally for its Autumn/Winter 2015 collection. The limited-edition designs include hiking boots, priced at $695 to $1,995, and backpacks, which retail for $1,250 to $2,795.
“As I’m getting older, I’m learning more about what my true style actually is,” Cole tells The New York Times. “Becoming more confident in what I like. And I love simplicity and comfort. Comfort is king. I feel at home in a pair of comfortable boots, and I always have a backpack with me. I keep my life in my backpack. Current books I’m reading, my notebook with all my rhymes written inside and my laptop that holds all the music I’m working on.”

To support the collaboration, J. Cole traveled to Jamaica and filmed a video with Bally. Directed by BBGun, the short film, entitled “Note to Self,” explores what happens to Cole when he disconnects from technology and goes off the grid.
“While I was visiting the Bally office in London, I noticed a black-and-white picture of Bob Marley wearing a pair of Bally boots,” says Cole. “I was impressed with the heritage of the company and how many people and places they’ve touched that I had no clue about. Jamaica was already one of my favorite places to spend time, but filming there was a way to pay homage both to Bob and to the brand’s legacy.”
The film will debut in partnership with Esquire on Aug. 10. Before the premiere, Cole will kick off the North American leg of his “Forest Hills Drive Tour” on July 12 with supporting acts Big Sean, YG, Jeremih, Bas, Cozz, and Omen.