Fresh off his victory tour with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants, Victor Cruz is making an impression on the fashion world.
While his teammates are enjoying the off season, Cruz is not taking it easy.
On Wednesday afternoon, Cruz was honored with the privilege of cutting the ribbon to announce the beginning of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City.
While this may surprise some, Cruz's passion for fashion is nothing new.
The following article is from www.myfoxny.com
The Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz has salsaed his way into the hearts of millions. Now, he's hoping to make his way into their closets with his men's clothing line, Young Whales. Started with Nate Collins from the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cruz says these threads are serious business.
"We really wanted to be a large contributor and not just put our name in something and not be a part of it," Cruz said. "All the designs, everything that goes into it, it goes through us."
That includes the line's unique name: Young Whales. It's the Wall Street term for a fat cat, a la Gordon Gekko.
"It gives the sense to the young guys of this upward mobility," said Laurent Huttinot, a Young Whales account executive. "This desire to reach this whale status, and to work hard for it."
Young Whales might represent status, but the line has humble beginnings. While most celebrities throw money at a line, Cruz started it before he knew he would be playing for the Giants.
"We were needy with the lockout. We didn't have as much money as we wanted to," Cruz said. "We made an educated effort to put as much money as we can possibly into this and it's come to fruition."
Designers say sales have been phenomenal. Right now the line offers t-shirts and sweatshirts, which range from $30 to $60. But Cruz's fans can expect varsity jackets, polos, and possibly even women's wear by the end of the year.
"It's still a humble operation," said Josh Kimerling, a designer for Young Whales. "We're still trying to learn and figure out who our market is."
Designers say Cruz's flashy salsa and on-field performance have been crucial to the brand's sales. They say a Super Bowl win will only mean more success.
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