Bella Hadid is known for sourcing great throwback fashion pieces, including vintage Jean Paul Gaultier and it bags from the 90s. The model continued her love for secondhand with a true McBling era-relic: A black-and-pink tracksuit by Rocawear, the Jay-Z-led hip hop fashion line that ruled early- and mid-aughts streetwear.
The look leans into the internet’s obsession with the so-called McBling era: a gaudy aesthetic filled with Hummers, bedazzled flip phones, and Juicy Couture tracksuits. It fits into Hadid’s casual vibe this summer. This past month has seen her embrace everything from cheap tank tops to no-frills glassblowing clothes to a loose-fitting pair of jorts. A velour tracksuit, with a napkin-thin baby tee underneath, feels like the natural next step for the aughts-obsessed model. The nostalgia even went down to her shoes: Bella wore a pair of Nike Shox, the once-popular model that is experiencing a resurgence this summer after designer Martine Rose released a sold-out mule version this month.
Personally, I’m crossing my fingers that more celebrities turn to “vintage” Rocawear. I remember my own treasured track suit from the brand — a white sleeveless hoodie and baggy shorts set that was approximately two sizes too big. (It was 2003!) It held a special spot in my closet—along with other hip hop brands from the era like Sean John, FUBU, and Phat Farm.
Sadly, Rocawear has waned in popularity, even though the brand is still in operation. But who knows? Maybe Bella can resurrect the brand. A hip hop brand revival does seem poised: P. Diddy recently went to great lengths to regain ownership of the sportswear line Sean John. I’ll be waiting. I think I still have that track suit (which might properly fit me now.)
