Sherpa
As the temperatures dropped in late 2017 sending us into the fall and winter season, a very popular clothing item started trending, the sherpa pullover. Sherpa pullovers and vests are fluffy, cozy, fleece jackets that come in an assortment of natural and fun colors for everyone. The pullover appeal comes from its comfy fit and fashionable styles.
Sherpas have fleece on both the inside and outside of the jacket to ensure the wearer will be warm on cold, winter days. They are a perfect way to complete any winter wardrobe. Wearers are also able to customize their coat to give it a unique look. I love pairing my Sherpa with my favorite jeans and a pair of boots for a nice, comfortable feel.
Many popular brands started to produce this product such as Simply Southern, PINK, L.L Bean, and many others as a way to capitalize on the trend. Pricing for Sherpas can range from $20 to $200. After the Sherpa success, other merchandise has been made with the same soft material like purses, shoes, and keychains. This shows how the material can be used year round, not just in the cold months of the year. Starting off 2018 in freezing weather and knowing more months of winter weather are to come, people can bundle up in the Sherpa.
J. Cole: KOD
North Carolina’s own, Jermaine Cole (J. Cole), has had a very successful year. Highlights include releasing his fourth album KOD. The acronym is understood to be defined in three ways: Kids on Drugs, King Overdose and Kill Our Demons. The album, released on April 20, speaks about topics that anyone can relate to: mental health, love, addiction and money management.
The theme of the album is about choosing responsible ways to handle our demons. The 12-song album featured only one artist named kiLL edward. This isn’t the first time he has been featured on a J. Cole song. As he was first featured on Cole’s second album Born Sinner in 2013. Fans speculate that the artist is an alter ego of Cole.
Along with the record-shattering album, Cole was featured on many tracks throughout the year. Artists like JID, 6LACK, Wale, Miguel and Bas partnered up with Cole to make this an electric year in Hip-Hop. 6LACK and Cole have been nominated for Best Rap Performance for their collaboration on “Pretty Little Fears.” The lyrical rapper, J.Cole, and Miguel have been nominated for Best R&B Song with “Come Through and Chill.” In total, Cole has had seven Grammy nominations in his career.
The Fayetteville native didn’t stop there. Throughout the year, he has collaborated with both well-rounded and up-and-coming artists. J. Cole’s label Dreamville will have a concert right here in Raleigh. The music festival was previously scheduled for September 15, but when Hurricane Florence struck the Carolinas, Dreamville postponed until April 6.
Cole is a talented artist and will continue to make new waves for years to come. Cole World.