Russell Simmons unveils male fashion line

A leading mogul in the world of hip hop has unveiled his new fashion range.

Russell Simmons, the music producer and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, launched his dedicated menswear collection at the Argyle Culture Fashion Show last Friday.

The line contained items including both sporty and pin-striped suits with V-neck sweaters, plaid shorts, jackets and "five-pocket pants".

Mr Simmons, who is known as a hip hop pioneer for his work signing artists such as Jay-Z and Tupac Shakur, together with producing records for Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys among others, managed to attract the stars of American Idol to his premiere.

He said: "I want to create a line to reach out to those guys who are not young men anymore but who want to still be part of that urban lifestyle."

There are reports online that R&B singer Usher is preparing to launch a new range of luxury underwear for both men and women.