RISE "New York Is For Lovers" Apparel Collection

RISE has unveiled an apparel collection to complement its earlier PUMA collaborative debut to support the NYC brand’s HIV/AIDS awareness campaign, “New York Is For Lovers.” Setting itself apart from the rest of the industry, RISE is a small but passionate collective with humble beginnings. In addition to a selection of items produced on its own, RISE has also worked with San Francisco-based sportswear label Golden Bear to produce a premium varsity jacket offering. The range also highlights a RISE for HEX #NYIFL Sneaker Duffle, a perfect union of form and functionality. A highly personal item for RISE founder Chase Ceperano, the item is an accessory must-have specifically designed to store all of your favorite travel items and includes a distinct unit to stow your sneakers.

In tandem with the initiative’s ongoing message, all of the set’s items are meant to raise awareness for the HIV/AIDS epidemic and to reengage difficult discussions regarding the disease. For Ceperano, the topic hits especially close to home as his father died of AIDS-related complications in 1994. As of 2012, approximately 35.3 million people are afflicted globally by the pandemic. Through this modern crusade, Chase hopes to eliminate the stigma surrounding the condition and to empower friends and strangers alike to fight for change. The “New York Is For Lovers” pop-up shop will be held in New York’s SoHo district tomorrow where the RISE x PUMA sneakers will also be debuted. Together, the two brands will donate $15,000 USD to benefit amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, through pioneering study. You can find more information on the event here. The full apparel collection will drop December 1 at RISE online.