article submitted by: C. Khid
UPDATED: 04 / 24 / 2004

Sean "P. Diddy" Combs is in the process of buying a financial stake in the designs of Zac Posen, who is labeled as one of New York's hottest fashion designers.

A partnership between the 24-year-old and Combs is expected to push his Sean John clothing label into the mainstream.

"Urban" apparel is the fastest growing sector of the $52 billion dollar men's wear industry.

According to the Associated Press, the Zac Posen deal would be Combs' first outside investment, but would bring Combs into the world of women's high fashion.

Combs is planning on launching an upscale Sean John womenswear line next year.

"I'm intrigued by the industry, and the people have embraced me and my style and my heart for trying to do something different," Combs said. "What I don't know, I can learn. If I want to be one of the best, I have to go all out. I'm not afraid."

Combs will also open a Sean John boutique this summer on Fifth Avenue and will launch a Sean John fragrance in the near future.