When celebrities get to the level of single name recognition, you never know where their faces will pop up. Another indicator a celeb has "made it" is to appear on the cover of the world's most glamorous fashion magazine.
The latest is basketball superstar LeBron James who appears on the April cover of Vogue alongside Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. Only three males have ever made the cover of the iconic fashion publication, Richard Gere and George Clooney being the others.
For the cover shoot, LeBron wore a tank, shorts and sneaks from his Nike line.
Basketball Superstars as Models
LeBron James Covers Vogue
Trend Themes
1. Athletes as Models - The trend of athletes crossing over into the fashion industry presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in both the sports and fashion spaces.
2. Male Models in Fashion - With only three male models ever making the cover of Vogue, there is potential for disruptive innovation in male representation within the fashion industry.
3. Celebrity Branding - The popularity of celebrity branding presents an opportunity for businesses to team up with famous individuals and reach new markets.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Equipment Manufacturers - Manufacturers of sports equipment and apparel could benefit from partnering with athletes to create products marketed towards fashion-conscious consumers.
2. Fashion Publications - Fashion publications could disrupt the industry by featuring more male models as part of their cover spreads and content.
3. Celebrity Marketing Agencies - Marketing agencies that specialize in celebrity endorsements and collaborations have an opportunity to capitalize on the trend of athletes and celebrities crossing over into the fashion industry.