Seven months after the passing of the esteemed fashion icon and artist Ricky Rick, PUMA with the Cotton Fest team announced earlier today the launch of the new PUMA x Cotton Fest F.C. collection set to drop next Thursday, 22 September.
Designed in collaboration with fashion savvy, rap artist Riky Rick and inspired by the sport aspect of the festival’s “University of Cotton Fest” collegiate theme, the collection’s DNA is rooted in 90’s football jerseys that have become iconic and revered fashion statement pieces.
The collection includes a T7 tracksuit top, soccer shorts, football top, and soccer balls designed by the late Riky Rick himself.
“We are very privileged to be able to bring what turned out to be Riky’s final collection to the market. As with everything Riky did, he was hands-on with this collection and its Cotton Fest F.C. aesthetic,” said Hayden Manuel, PUMA South Africa Sportstyle Marketing Manager.
As part of the launch, PUMA has committed to a R100 000 bursary for final year AFDA students to cover shortfalls on their fees and assist them to graduate. “The arts were close to Riky’s heart, and he was a former AFDA student, so we and Riky’s family agreed that supporting the students would be an appropriate way to honour his legacy,” said Manuel.
The capsule collection is supported by an exciting marketing campaign featuring Riky’s wife Bianca, kids Maik and Jordan, his brothers Themba, Toby and Sheikani, alongside the rest of the Cotton Fest fam.
“Building on Riky’s legacy to creating a platform for young creatives, our family fully endorse the campaign, especially regarding the bursary and giving back to students. We are also excited about the range coming to life finally, and ready to go to market” stated Bianca Naidoo.
The PUMA Cotton Fest F.C. collection will be available at most PUMA.com outlets from next week.
This includes the following stores:
Gauteng: Menlyn, Braamfontein Select, Eastgate, Fourways, Mall of Africa, Sandton
Western Cape: Cape Town Select, Sportscene Canal Walk, Promenade, Waterfront, Vaal Mall
Kwazulu Natal: Gateway, Westville Pavillion
North West: Rustenberg
