deanna.williams@macys.com
Basketball and celebrity superstar Shaquille O’Neal and Peerless Clothing today announced they have partnered to create a new fashion menswear ollection. Shaquille O’Neal will launch exclusively at Macy’s, offering the latest fashion trends popularly priced with sizes that range from regular to Big & Tall.
The Shaquille O’Neal collection, available at 100 Macy’s stores nationwide and on macys.com starting mid-February will include suit separates and sport coats. Individually or paired together, these pieces will make men of every size feel comfortable and well-dressed. Patterns include traditional solids, stripes, and plaids as well as more modern and unexpected sharkskin in shades of black, navy, tan and grey. Suit separates anchor the line, as they offer the opportunity to choose jacket and pant sizes perfect for customers with varied proportions. Retailing from $150 for a pant to $400 for a jacket, Shaquille O’Neal will allow the 60XL guy to shop in the same store and look just as dapper as his size 40R friend.
“Shaq is one of the biggest stars in sports with a huge fan base and following. A favorite celebrity and personality that is larger than life. Fans everywhere love Shaq for his athletic accomplishments, and his successful foray into music, movies, television shows and business. They love his style, passion and charisma” said Ronny Wurtzburger, president of Peerless Clothing. “When it comes to fashion, Shaq is a trendsetter not only for Big & Tall and regular size men, but he also has strong consumer appeal among African and Hispanic Americans, Moms who relate to Shaq’s dedication to providing quality products at affordable prices, and kids who see him as their ultimate role model.”
“My interest in developing a menswear collection was based on my frustration with the lack of fashion for Big & Tall customers and the higher prices for larger size suits,” O’Neal said. “Further, I was frustrated that I had to go to a Big & Tall store rather than shop with my friends at the local department or specialty store. I originally wanted to develop a more fashion-forward menswear collection at an affordable price. Once Peerless and I developed the collection, the reaction from Macy’s was so positive that we decided to make the collection in all sizes.”
The collection will be marketed online and in store as well as through newspaper and personal appearances. Shaq also will wear the new collection on TNT’s “Inside the NBA” and on future television appearances.
“Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most iconic athletes of our time, and we are thrilled that he chose Macy’s to launch this extension of his superstar talent into the world of tailored clothing,” said Richard Arnstein, Macy’s EVP / GMM of Mens. “With his high profile lifestyle, Mr. O’Neal understands the power of being well dressed, and this new collection of suit separates will appeal to men of any size who truly appreciate style and quality.”
“I am excited and honored to partner with Macy’s, an iconic American brand that believes in our community, to launch a collection that will be fun, elegant and classy,” O’Neal said.
About Macy’s
Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers, employees and Macy’s Foundation, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $70 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.
