Kendrick Lamar’s Chanel Campaign Adds To His Ongoing Momentum

Kendrick Lamar just added another layer to his 2025 reign. The Grammy and Pulitzer-winning rapper has been named the newest face of Chanel.

Lensed by Karim Sadli, Lamar stars in the brand’s 2025 Spring eyewear campaign rocking a pair of black Chanel sunglasses lined with silver crystal beads. While he joins longtime Chanel muses Lupita Nyong’o, Margaret Qualley, and Nana Komatsu for the spread, his placement feels more like a shift than a styling choice.

Lamar has never chased fashion headlines, but he has made them. His choices are deliberate. He is known for his minimalist looks and understated designer placements. One of his biggest style moments came earlier this year during the Super Bowl when he performed in a bold pair of bell bottoms. The look had social media and fashion insiders talking for days. It was unexpected and bold, yet still very much aligned with who Kendrick has always been.

“Chanel has a timeless legacy, and that is always something I can get behind,” he said in a statement. “Since they don’t make clothes for men, I knew it would have to be glasses.”

This new Chanel campaign arrives at a pivotal time. Lamar is in the middle of a cultural high, having just dropped the viral track “Not Like Us” and kicked off his Grand National Tour with SZA. He continues to define his own lane across music, art, and now fashion.

Chanel has named very few men as ambassadors over the years. Pharrell Williams, G-Dragon, and Timothée Chalamet have been among the rare picks. Now, many are wondering if the luxury house is finally opening the door to a menswear line.