Confession: when I first heard Ne-Yo would be the spokesperson for Macy's Alfani Red line, I was skeptical. Though his ever-present fedora adds (slightly) to his fashion credibility, in my opinion, he lacks the innate style and fashion point-of-view of a Kanye, Pharrell or Andre 3000. That is to say he looks like a rerun of Micheal Jackson in Smooth Criminal or the "Rat Pack," (as he likens himself to in interviews) but cannot claim a distinct look of his own.The unveiling of the black and white ads yesterday at the Metropolitan Pavilion, however, left me pleasantly surprised. Alfani Red and Ne-Yo fit together as seamlessly as Ne-Yo's tailored black suit (he looked very dapper...so much so the fedora didn't annoy me). Alfani Red's new collection brings youth and modernity to the sharp, sophisticated 'Rat Pack' suits of the past and in his brilliant music and timeless style, Ne-Yo aims to do the same. Boasting an impeccable fit and signature red stitching, the collection, which Ne-Yo describes as "bold and sleek," ranges from $49-325. What struck me specifically was the silhouette - the suits taper slightly at the waist and the streamlined look elongates. Truly, it looks stunning on but don't take my word for it - see for yourself.
At the event, Ne-Yo made it clear why he is the face of the brand, charming fashion favorites and photographers and even doing the moonwalk between poses. The year of the gentleman, indeed.
His suave demeanor and affinity for the spotlight were captured brilliantly in the ads by Walter Chin who shot the singer/songwriter in Prague. The unveiling of these ads mark the beginning of a one-year deal with Ne-Yo and the Alfani Red line for Macy's.
What do you think of the ads? Do you think Ne-Yo was the right choice for spokesperson? Will you shop the collection?
Kisses,
Coutura