Bruno Mars’ striking comeback went beyond the music industry on March 5, 2021. In addition to releasing his first single as a part of a duo with rapper Anderson .Paak, he launched his first clothing line in collaboration with Lacoste. The campaign is in honor of his alter ego “Ricky Regal.”
Lacoste x Ricky Regal entails a 70s inspired classy yet casual style. According to Lacoste’s official website, “the collection brings the world of Ricky Regal to life through the lens of Lacoste's iconic blend of sport and luxury.”
Anderson .Paak is also featured in the campaign. The collection features vibrant sweatsuits, graphic tees, relaxed fit patterned shirts, oversized shorts and a few tie-dye statement pieces inspired by Miami nightlife. The classic Lacoste polo even has a velvet twist to it in the Ricky Regal collection.
The main colors of the clothing line are rich shades of red and maroon, mustard yellow and dark green. “His use of fall colors… make for a chic and stylish fit,” freshman operations management and business analytics major Roxanna Jalinoos said.
The retro vibe is also found in the accessories, which include vintage navigator glasses, striped and ribbed socks and synthetic slides. “[It] seems like it’s mostly gender-neutral clothing,” said freshman letters and sciences major Diego Pantelis.
The price range is relatively expensive. The cotton shirts are $90 and they are the second least expensive item after the socks which are $25. Pantelis said, “I really like how the clothes look comfortable. However, the price is a big turn-off for me.”
The collection was initially in select retail stores. Then, it became available online and in Lacoste boutiques on March 8 at 3 p.m. Over 40 items sold out online within an hour.
Silk Sonic, Mars’ and .Paak’s new band, released a music video on YouTube of their song titled “Leave the Door Open.” The smooth and retro beat of the song matches with what Ricky Regal’s brand is all about. “It’s exciting to see Bruno Mars coming back onto the scene with this line and with new music as well,” said freshman business major Gabrielle Ada.
Everyone featured in the music video wore clothes from the collection. Mars was wearing a brown blazer over a yellow cotton shirt with “Ricky Regal” written across and, of course, it had the classic Lacoste crocodile logo. Mars stated in a CNN article, “When I'm on stage my name is Bruno Mars. When I'm making lavish luxurious garments, I go by Ricky Regal."