Nelly launches unexpected collaboration with Apple Bottoms and Apple Bubly
- Nelly collaborated with Apple Bottoms and Apple Bubly to create a limited-edition jean collection.
- The jean design features iconic apple-shaped back pockets and fluorescent green lining, tapping into Y2K nostalgia.
- This partnership highlights Nelly's successful shift in focus towards women’s fashion and experimentation in business.
In September 2025, rapper Nelly unveiled a unique collaboration between his fashion brand, Apple Bottoms, and the beverage brand, Apple Bubly. This collection features a limited-edition jean design that prominently showcases Apple Bottoms’ signature apple-shaped back pockets, inspired by the popular culture of the early 2000s. The design also incorporates fluorescent green lining to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the Y2K era. Nelly, reflecting on his past success with Apple Bottoms, noted that he initially didn't anticipate the overwhelming response from women in his fanbase, which ultimately inspired him to create a clothing line specifically for them. During his career, Nelly observed that many male-focused urban fashion brands enjoy greater success than their female counterparts. However, Apple Bottoms diverged from this trend, thriving largely because it resonated with female consumers. Nelly's music played a crucial role in bringing attention to his clothing line, and as he recognized that the majority of his audience was female, he capitalized on that demographic to launch Apple Bottoms. Nelly's current endeavors also intersect with his personal life, as he stars in a new show on Peacock alongside his wife, Ashanti. In discussing the collaboration, he emphasized that it's crucial to embrace experimentation, advising artists and designers to be open to trying new things. This philosophy has been essential to his continued success in music and business alike, as adaptability and the willingness to innovate can lead to unexpected triumphs. The new collection includes not only the iconic Apple Bottoms jeans but also extras inspired by Y2K aesthetics, such as a tank top, a keychain, a mini denim clutch, and an iron-on patch, providing fans with various ways to customize their look. As Nelly continues to evolve in both his music career and business ventures, this collaboration stands out as a testament to his ability to defy expectations and connect with his audience in new and exciting ways.