The second fashion collaboration for Melo Made signifies basketball star Carmelo Anthony’s commitment to the African culture, his creativity, and love for style.
In collaboration with designer Laduma Ngxokolo of Maxhosa Africa, the vibrant Melo Made Collection II featured traditional African prints and colors in modern style. Knit sweatsuits, shorts sets, bomber jackets, and socks were on display in Harlem Parish, the arts and culture space of St. Thomas Church, which has brought many notable names such as Harry Belafonte to worship and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for baptism.
The collection was inspired by South African artist, Nelson Makamo, who is based in Johannesburg and draws his creative influence particularly from children living in rural areas of South Africa. “They represent innocence, joy, and peace,” said Nelson, who is planning a series of exhibits in the U.S. “I travel all around South Africa meeting them and talking with them.”
Anthony left his mark on New York Fashion with the event presented during NY spring/summer2020 Fashion Week. It also featured a live installation from Nelson, where attendees were invited to collaborate on the portrait of a young boy and a performance by Nigerian recording artist and actress, Tiwa Savage, appearing in a Melo Made knit burnt orange and black printed skirt and bralette, a seamless melding of fashion, art and music.
