Common Launches T-Shirt Line With Microsoft, Reveals His Favorite Things

This week, rapper/actor/serial-celebrity-dater Common celebrated the release of his new Softwear t-shirt line in New York City last week. He officially joined the celebrity-designer band wagon when he paired up with technology leader Microsoft to create his 80s-inspired designs for true hip-hop heads, hipsters, and the like.

The event also tied in with the DVD release of 'Wanted,' which Common appeared in with Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman. Common's 'Smokin' Aces' co-star Jeremy Piven, Rev. Al Sharpton, Danity Kane's Dawn Richard, Day 26, 'The Wire's' Jamie Hector and more danced to tunes spun by old-school DJ Biz Markie while 'Wanted Played on flat screens throughout the loft space.

The former backpacker has stepped up his game business and style-wise since he first came out in the early 90's as Common Sense, so it was no surprise that the trendsetter would come deliver collection of his very own.

Style Spotter spoke to the dapper, urban gentleman at the event to learn about his vision and some of his favorite things.

Common: Style Now

Straight Mackin'
In a white tailored suit, Common impresses honeys of he all flavors. How appropriate that this is a Playboy party. (Photo by Michael Buckner, Getty Images)

Common and Erykah Badu
Erykah's afro perfectly compliments Common's retro vibe. Viva Revolution! (Photo by M. Caulfield, WireImage.com)

Common and Tracee Ellis Ross
Together they would have killed it style-wise like Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz. (Photo by John Sciulli, WireImage.com)

Common in 'Street Kings'
Roughneck: a metallic striped sweater and tough gaze is stylishly hood. (Photo Courtesy of Fox Searchlight)

Common and Taraji P. Henson
The 'Hustle and Flow' star was the right accessory to his all white look. (Photo by Malcolm Ali, WireImage.com)

Big pimpin'
The tilted cap, beard with denim shirt and faded jeans echoes Donny Hathaway. (Photo by Eddie Malluk, WireImage.com)

Common and Serena Williams
A millionaire athlete is this season's hottest accessory. Pisces and Libra? Both love beautiful things including each other. (Photo by Andrew Marks, Retna Ltd.)

Keep It Classic
A print tie with classic white shirt and jeans shows he's GQ ready. (Photo Courtesy of Geffen)

Common Onstage
So that's how he does it! No wonder he keeps snagging them! (Photo by Serge Thomann, WireImage.com)

Thug appeal?
A sexy gaze peering out of a dark hoodie is simple and sexy. (Photo Courtesy of Geffen)

What is your vision for the collection?

I wanted the vision to be progressive, I wanted it to be fresh-looking. I wanted it to bring a certain nostalgia that you feel like man, this is incredible artwork and I want to wear this and I want it to reflect beauty, creativity and humanity. When I wear t-shirts I want it to look fly but say something too. So some of the shirts got messages some of it bring...all of it got a purpose, all of its got a certain nostalgia of '85 and that era. I really wanted it to be progressive pieces that have purpose.

How would you describe your personal style?

I like to be progressive with my style. I like to do things that are different but feel very natural to me but I call it progressive.

Who is your fashion icon?

I like Malcolm X and Miles Davis.

Aaah. Hence, the glasses you're wearing! Cool. Got it. Who are some of your favorite designers?

I like Paul Smith, I like Gucci.

What is your favorite recent electronic purchase?

I got a Zune Player and its really fresh. And I'm not into electronic things as much. My Zune Player got me connecting with music in a different way.

What kind of scents do you wear?

I wear lotions. Carol's Daughter's lotions.

What is your hottest fashion purchase this season?

I think my flyest item are these pimp shoes. I bought some Yves Saint Laurent shoes that are real fly.

Softwear will retail for approximately $32, and will be available in late December at specialty retailers nationwide including Union (NYC) Leaders and 1354 (Chicago), Wish (Atlanta), and Major (Washington DC). To learn more about the inspiration behind the Common Collection and a sneak preview visit www.softwearbymicrosoft.com.