Martine Rose, fashion, and Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl jacket

As the Head of Middlesex's School of Design, it’s always a great pleasure to see our alumni succeed. Recently, you might have seen Martine Rose making headlines when she dressed Kendrick Lamar for his Super Bowl performance. 

As he took the stage in February 2025, I think it’s fair to say Kendrick Lamar’s bold, oversized custom jacket captured the world’s attention. It was designed by Martine Rose, a Middlesex alumna, and here's how it exemplifies her fearless creativity.  

Becoming a big name in fashion

Growing up in Croydon, Martine drew inspiration from her British-Jamaican heritage and the vibrant streetwear scene in London. Her professional path began at Middlesex, where she studied BA Fashion with us.  

Her designs celebrate diversity and self-expression, merging various artistic traditions. Martine’s unconventional approach disrupts fashion norms. I believe Middlesex students experience this same energy daily, surrounded by a diverse campus of like-minded individuals passionate about creativity and art. At Middlesex, there’s no “house style” - we empower our students to find their own creative voice. 

Since launching her label in 2007, Martine’s become renowned for breaking fashion rules, blending underground street style with high-end craftsmanship. She’s worked with major brands like Balenciaga, Nike, and Clarks. Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl jacket is the ultimate example of what her passion and talents have achieved. 

Creativity above all else 

Martine's work embodies the idea that originality beats following trends. This ethos aligns with Middlesex’s encouragement for students to carve their own creative paths.  

I think that Martine Rose’s success shows that there’s no single path to greatness – it's about making your own. For creative thinkers seeking a place where they’ll be understood and supported, Middlesex is the ideal environment. With the right community and support, bold ideas can change the world. 

Martine’s journey turned her from a student brimming with ideas, to a globally recognised designer. Explore opportunities to study fashion at MDX.