Ask any tone deaf musical philistine and they’ll be able to tell you of the importance of Memphis as a musical Mecca. But the Tennessee city has been far more inspirational than just as the capital of America’s diverse musical taste. For the second of Mr Justin Timberlake’s collaborative collections for the all American clothing legend, Levi, Memphis and its historical touch-points have paid as inspiration.
Timberlake, a Memphis native, that fact has had an outsized influence on both his music and his style.
“Memphis and music have always been a big part of me,” says the Grammy award-winning artist. “And it became a huge part of this collection, just going back to the places and things I loved here as a kid.”
As the second installment of the collaboration, called “Fresh Leaves,” the Memphis-inspired lineup offers updated twists on timeless Levi’s classics.
Adding as inspiration from the graphic tees that reference the Zippin Pippin rollercoaster in the old East End Park, Skateland roller rink, and University of Memphis Tigers Basketball, to his spin on the Trucker jacket paying homage to the music idols who paved the way, the collection is loaded with nostalgic nods to the Memphis of Timberlake’s youth. And mixed in with all of this nostalgia is a range of modern styles and silhouettes, looks that speak to Justin’s signature blend of eclectic American musical styles.
Along with the obviously iconic Levi’s 501 Slim Taper, the collection also features a range of hoodies and Truckers—several with “Fresh Leaves” sleeve screen prints—a Trucker-hoodie hybrid, graphic tees in short and long-sleeve, and a print short-sleeve button-up. It’s the Levi’s you know and love mixed with a splash of street style swagger, and then all wrapped up in a nostalgic love letter to Memphis.
