Nicki Minaj’s LØCI Sneakers Launch Date: All You Need to Know as Rapper Criticizes Kelsey Nicole for Wearing the Shoes

Nicki Minaj ranks among the top-tier rappers globally and has recently claimed the title of the richest female artist in the rap industry. As reported by Celebrity Net Worth, Minaj’s wealth has skyrocketed, with estimations exceeding $150 million in 2024.

A significant part of her financial success can be attributed to her music sales and concert tours, but her strategic business investments also play a crucial role.

This talented artist, known for hits like “Swalla,”has previously partnered with various brands in fashion, cosmetics, and sports. In March 2024, she launched her own press-on nail collection called Pink Friday Nails, followed shortly by her sneaker line named LØCI Sneakers.

Unveiled on April 12, LØCI Sneakers quickly became the preferred shopping destination for her dedicated fanbase. However, earlier this month, Kelsey Nicole, a prominent sports journalist, shared photos on Instagram showcasing her wearing Nicki Minaj’s LØCI Sneakers. Initially thought to be an advertisement, the post was later disavowed by the “Hey Mama”hitmaker.

Let’s dive deeper into the events surrounding what appeared to be an advertising campaign for LØCI Sneakers.

Nicki Minaj Calls Out Kelsey Nicole Over LØCI Sneakers Post

On October 1, The Shade Room shared screenshots of Kelsey Nicole’s Instagram post featuring her in Nicki Minaj’s shoes. In the images, Nicole donned the press-play sneaker while seated on a large can, holding a newspaper that prominently displayed an advertisement for LØCI Sneakers.

The second image captured Kelsey in the same ensemble but riding a bicycle with a subway backdrop.

According to Complex, the now-deleted Instagram caption read:

“Have y’all checked out the @locibynickiminaj shoe line? Now available at @dtlrofficial and @shoepalace I’m wearing the press-play shoe. This brand is eco-friendly & constantly working to protect future generations to come. Available in-store & online.”

The post included acknowledgments to her photographer, hairstylist, and studio team. Following the initial posting, The Shade Room highlighted it, mistakenly suggesting that Kelsey was advocating for Nicki Minaj’s sneaker line.

Once Minaj caught wind of the post, she promptly addressed both The Shade Room and Kelsey Nicole directly. In a tweet shared on October 7, Minaj labeled the outlet’s assertion as a “LIE,”emphasizing:

“Neither I nor my company were aware of this until she posted it. She did what many individuals do when they receive my sneakers – they share a photo. Kelsey definitely went all out with that professional backdrop, but she is not in any way linked to my sneaker brand.”

The 41-year-old further criticized the incident as “clownery,”suggesting that the media outlet was compensated to push “calculated, planned stories & narratives.”

“By the way, didn’t Kelsey inform them she wasn’t representing the line, Barbz? Did she let them operate under that assumption? I need to get caught up, y’all.”

Despite Kelsey Nicole deleting the promotional Instagram post, she has yet to comment on the situation publicly.

This miscommunication surfaces just six months after the launch of Nicki Minaj’s sneaker line, LØCI Sneakers. The inaugural collection features 11 designs in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, brick red, royal blue, black, and white, with a starting price point of $200.

Being an eco-conscious sneaker brand, Nicki’s collection distinguishes itself by utilizing innovative materials such as recycled ocean plastics and bio-leather.

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