Balotelli's Burden

  • Walé Oyéjidé
Named for the near-legendary Italian soccer player of Ghanaian descent, our Balotelli pop-over shirt is an homage to the many Africans who have emigrated to Europe in search of opportunity. Whether they be players of The Beautiful Game, or tourists of the beautiful streets, not all of them are welcomed with open arms. This garment is a sober reminder that there are still individuals who face mistreatment because of their hue and heritage. By combining soft-Italian tailoring with prints reminiscent of West Africa, the Balotelli bolsters the notion that beautiful things are born when we allow our cultures to boldly intertwine.