GOING BIG: Versace has big ambitions.
The Italian luxury brand is launching a new ad campaign for its Biggie eyewear, named after the late rapper Notorious B.I.G., that is fronted by Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Sabrina Carpenter and Alexandre Sarr, the French professional basketball player for NBA’s Washington Wizards.
“I am thrilled to have Sabrina and Alexandre join our Versace family in their fabulous Biggie glasses,” said chief creative officer Donatella Versace. “From Notorious B.I.G. to the extraordinary talent of today, the Biggie community are rebels, groundbreakers and champions of the true Versace spirit.”
First popularized in the 1990s by Notorious B.I.G., who wore them on several occasions and in music videos, the sunglasses blend street style and high fashion, reflecting the cultural influence of hip-hop and also nodding to the impact of Versace on contemporary culture. With its gold Medusa medallion and logo detailing, the Biggie sunglasses have been among the brand’s signature designs and are produced by EssilorLuxottica.
“I love wearing Biggie sunglasses; they are my go-to accessory for any occasion,” Carpenter said. “They represent so much more than just sunglasses and I am so excited to be a part of this community.”
Last month, Carpenter wore a shimmering, body-hugging silver metal mesh gown by Versace on the red carpet in New York at the 2024 Time 100 Next Gala. Just in time for the holidays, Carpenter is appearing this month in the Netflix release “A Nonsense Christmas,” a variety music. Carpenter first gained recognition starring on the Disney Channel series “Girl Meets World,” and is known for singles like “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.”
Alexandre Sarr fronting Versace’s Biggie eyewear campaign.
“I’ve seen Biggie sunglasses worn by everyone — my NBA teammates, friends I’ve made across the globe, business guys and kids playing basketball in the yard,” Sarr said. “Biggies are for anyone who wants to give and take a bit more from life.”
In June, Sarr wore a Versace suit with sparkling buttons with gem embellishments at the 78th NBA Draft at the Barclays Center in New York City and was named the luxury brand’s ambassador last month.
Born in Bordeaux, France, Sarr plays the power forward and center positions and is considered an NBA rising star.
For the campaign, Carpenter and Sarr were photographed by Rosie Marks.
