Monday, Oct. 03, 2011

Jay-Z

As one of the most successful men in music — as a rapper, record producer, club owner and all-around mogul — Jay-Z didn't necessarily need to expand his empire into fashion. But let's face it: with the depth of his popularity, Jay (born Shawn Corey Carter) was smart enough to know that his legions of fans would flock to a collection that captured the star's signature street style. Since its inception in 1999, Rocawear has become one of the most popular brands of urban-lifestyle clothing. With annual sales of more than $700 million, there's nothing that the brand doesn't cover. Through licensing deals with various companies, Rocawear has expanded to include junior's clothes, handbags, belts, hats, jewelry, ladies' intimates, eyewear and men's and women's footwear, as well as baby clothes — which will soon come in handy when Jay-Z and his wife Beyoncé (a celebreneur in her own right) welcome their first baby next year.