Ray-Ban has officially appointed A$AP Rocky as its first-ever creative director, marking a historic moment for the iconic eyewear brand. The Harlem-born rapper will oversee Ray-Ban Studios, the brand’s music-focused division, bringing his distinct style and cultural influence to the forefront.
For nearly 80 years, Ray-Ban has been a staple among artists, celebrities, and cultural icons. Now, for the first time in its history, the brand is entrusting its creative vision to an artist—none other than A$AP Rocky, who, at 36, has established himself as a force in music, fashion, and design.
The announcement coincided with a series of paparazzi photos capturing Rocky en route to an LA courthouse during his latest trial, from which he was acquitted just before the weekend. The images highlight his signature polished style and serve as a subtle teaser for his new role, as he’s seen sporting various Ray-Ban frames—from timeless metal designs to the iconic Wayfarers.
Rocky’s appointment marks a more profound expansion into the fashion world, adding another milestone to his already impressive portfolio. In addition to past collaborations with Bottega Veneta, his footwear designs for Puma, and his AWGE collections showcased at Paris Fashion Week, he now steps into the eyewear industry in a leadership role. His new position places him at the helm of Ray-Ban Studios, a creative platform launched in 2011 that celebrates the connection between music and self-expression. This move aligns with a growing trend of musicians crossing into the high fashion space—not unlike Pharrell Williams, who in 2023 was named artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear line. While these appointments may challenge traditional fashion insiders, they underscore the undeniable influence that artists like Rocky have in shaping global style.
“We welcome A$AP Rocky into our family,” said Ray-Ban’s president, Leonardo Del Vecchio, in an official statement. “He is an artist and creator with vision. His ability to push the boundaries of the diverse worlds he explores aligns with Ray-Ban’s DNA, strengthening the brand’s values of innovation, pioneering spirit, and courage. Let the future begin!”
Rocky embraced his new role and expressed his excitement: “I have always admired the brand’s ability to stay true to its roots while constantly evolving. I am excited to be part of its strong legacy and to develop the next chapter for such an iconic brand.”
With Rocky at the creative helm, Ray-Ban is set to solidify further its place at the intersection of music, fashion, and culture.