The fashion world is abuzz with an exciting collaboration that's taking London by storm! Thom Browne and Asics have joined forces to create a unique sneaker collection, and they're bringing it to the iconic Selfridges in the heart of the city.
But this isn't just any ordinary launch. The pop-up takeover at Selfridges' Corner Shop marks the U.K. debut of this highly anticipated partnership, first revealed during the Super Bowl weekend earlier this year. And what a collaboration it is! Thom Browne has reimagined Asics' Sportstyle Gel-Kayano 14 sneaker, offering a fresh take on a classic design.
Here's where it gets intriguing: the pop-up space has been transformed into an 'office fantasia,' a surreal midcentury American bank setting, complete with white blinds and steel elements. And the sneakers? They're showcased atop paper sculptures inspired by Browne's signature four-bar motif along the Oxford Street windows.
The collection features three colorways, each with its own unique twist. The white and black versions boast a lace catcher with red, white, and blue grosgrain, paying homage to Browne's athletic achievements as a varsity swimmer and runner. The gray colorway takes a more subtle approach with tonal grosgrain, while all three feature two sets of laces, one with a metal tip and patriotic colors, and the other two-toned, honoring the sneaker's sports heritage.
But here's where it gets controversial—the upper design. The gray and black colorways showcase real suede, while the white opts for smooth leather, a bold move that elevates the performance-driven origins of the Gel-Kayano 14.
And this is the part most people miss—the exclusivity. Selfridges will be the exclusive launch partner for the white edition, making it a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.
This collaboration is a testament to Thom Browne's ability to blend sports and fashion seamlessly. It's a celebration of athleticism and style, and it's sure to spark conversations and debates among fashion enthusiasts. What do you think of this unique collaboration? Is it a match made in fashion heaven, or a controversial twist on a classic sneaker? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
