Nike and Riccardo Tisci are back together, but this time they're stepping away from sneakers. Their latest collaboration centers on the Mercer, a $500 leather handbag that marks their first joint release since 2018.
The Italian-made Mercer features black pebbled leather with minimal branding - a debossed Nike logo on the front flap and Tisci's metal R.T. signature at the corner. The adjustable strap comes with gold-tone hardware that allows for various carrying options.
This shift toward leather goods follows changing consumer patterns in luxury fashion. Data from resale platform The RealReal shows men's handbag searches rose 900% in 2023, indicating a broader acceptance of luxury accessories among male consumers. The trend coincides with Nike's recent challenges in the sneaker market, where critics point to oversaturation and repetitive designs.
The partnership between Nike and Tisci began in 2014 with several notable footwear releases. Their first project reimagined the Air Force 1 with distinctive jacquard straps. Subsequent releases included versions of the Air Cast 1, NikeLab Dunk Lux High, and various Flyknit models. Their last collaboration, a 2018 release, featured the Air Max 97 and Air Force 1 High.
Nike has recently expanded beyond its traditional athletic focus. The company launched NikeSKIMS with Kim Kardashian and created a handbag collection with French designer Jacquemus, currently retailing at $400. The Mercer bag suggests Nike may be developing a broader luxury accessories strategy.
The Mercer bag launches March 1 through select retail partners. Nike has not yet announced specific stockist information.