This is a series about the Ballantine’s x RZA partnership. Click here to explore the rest of the stories and find out more.
Fashion is one of the greatest ways to showcase self-expression; we use clothes to express who we are, from our style to our sports club and even our communities and neighborhoods
RZA
Wise words from Wu-Tang legend RZA — and he’s not wrong. Individuality (and also community) has long been defined by what people wear and how they wear it. Sometimes an outfit speaks louder than words; think of football fans, outdoor lovers, or hip-hop enthusiasts. If there’s one person whose fits undoubtedly reflect their creative character, it’s RZA. From his iconic jackets right down to his caps and glasses, RZA has perfected his look — so it’s no surprise that he wanted to share his take on style through the next part of the Ballantine’s collaboration.
To celebrate individuality, personal style, and (of course) the second drop in their exciting partnership, RZA and Ballantine’s Scotch Whisky has teamed up with Japanese streetwear brand NEIGHBORHOOD on a limited edition capsule collection.
The ongoing collaboration between Ballantine’s and RZA has seen the duo work together to celebrate self-expression and define what it means to ‘stay true’ to yourself, firstly through music with Crosley and now through fashion with NEIGHBORHOOD. RZA was the catalyst for both Ballantine’s and NEIGHBORHOOD bringing them together over their shared values and dedication to craft. If there’s one thing all three know how to do, it’s honing in on their skills and strengthening their practice.
We all know that streetwear and hip-hop have a symbiotic relationship, so naturally, RZA wanted to put his own stamp on such an iconic brand like NEIGHBORHOOD. In fact, in 1988, Takizawa himself took part in the launch of MAJOR FORCE, the first full-scale hip-hop label in Japan, where he was in charge of design, so blending both worlds is second nature to him. Not to mention that this RZA x Ballantine’s x NEIGHBORHOOD drop also coincides with the hip-hop’s 50th birthday this year. Talk about keepin’ it real. Japanese street fashion has had a significant impact on streetwear culture which originated in the early ‘90s. Takizara has been a pioneer of the popular movement, much like RZA in the world of hip-hop.
The capsule collection brings the best of the creative trio to the fore. The hero piece, a classic zip work jacket, is emblazoned with the mantras ‘Stay True; and ‘Craft With Pride’ above the iconic Ballantine’s chevron. The phrase ‘craft with pride’ has been used since NEIGHBORHOOD’s inception to express the brand’s commitment and passion for all its work and the identity and standards it holds itself to. In true NEIGHBORHOOD style, the jacket is crafted using TC twill for a boxier fit, and embroidered onto the left cuff of the jacket is RZA’s slick signature.
The whole collection came out great, but having Ballantine’s ‘Stay True’ motto on the jacket is my favorite detail – it encapsulates our shared belief of doing things your own way
RZA
NEIGHBORHOOD doesn’t only specialize in apparel (thanks to Takizawa’s interest in functional lifestyle pieces), so some fun accessories have been added into the mix for good measure. A dad cap and an eco-friendly tote bag, both dotted with the collaborative logos and RZA’s signature, are there for your everyday fit. For the devoted whisky fans amongst you, the collection includes a bespoke Tsukamoto ceramic whisky decanter with the classic NEIGHBORHOOD skull motif and a Tsukamoto black clay drinks tumbler. Tsukamoto is a Mashiko pottery kiln that was founded in 1864. With a history of over 140 years and less than 40 years apart in terms of when they were founded, Tsukamoto and Ballantine’s definitely bring the heritage and heart to this special drop.
RZA has a unique style; while it’s evolved over time, it remains unmistakably true to his essence – timeless and multi-faceted. Likewise, the items in this collection are physical expressions of different art forms – namely fashion and pottery – through multiple cultures: a Japanese streetwear brand partnered with New York hip-hop culture and the legacy of an iconic Scotch whisky.
NEIGHBORHOOD
The bespoke collection drops on October 26th and is available globally on our Highsnobiety Shop and END Clothing.
