Mary J. Blige and Simone I. Smith have unveiled a limited-edition collection from their Sister Love jewelry brand to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop.
The Capsule Collection honors both Blige and Smith’s 1980s New York City upbringing. It’s described as a contemporary reinterpretation of classic designs like rope jewelry and bamboo door knockers. The collection is set to release officially on National Hip Hop Day which falls on August 11. However, eager shoppers can buy now as the collection is already available online.
“Hip-hop is so important to me because it gave me my identity growing up in the inner city and the projects. It was and still is a powerful way for us to express ourselves and understand other artists and rappers who MC through their experience. Years ago, people thought this genre would be extinct, but 50 years later, it is still here and just as big as rock and roll,” Blige explained in a statement to VIBE.
Blige says they decided to specifically include triangle hoops, called Tri-Bams, in the collection because they are the ones every female rapper wore.
“Hip-Hop culture always influences the designs for Sister Love. These are the earrings we wore growing up and are still wearing today,” Blige said.
About Sister Love
Sister Love stemmed from the friendship between Smith and Blige. According to the official website, Sister Love symbolizes strength, edge, style, and sassiness. The line was created to inspire women to be strong, fearless, empowered, and to “wear what you want… because you CAN!” The two women wanted to show other women the importance of supporting each other.
Simone I. Smith Designs Collection with Husband
The line also sells jewelry for men. Smith shared with VIBE that was inspired by her husband LL COOL J for a recent project. She described the set as giving a “kind of bodega vibe.” It also allows customers to purchase stylish, “affordable bling.”
“Everybody can’t go out and buy a $100,000 necklace, but you could get it for $600 on simoneismith.com and have that same look and be fly,” she said.