The combination of classic silhouettes and advanced technologies has proven an interesting sub-trend in contemporary fashion. Most of these focus on adding a tweak here or there, or reinterpreting a garment in a new fabric. The STONE ISLAND SHADOW project takes the step further. In some respects it reverses logical thinking. Garments are reformed from the inside.

A collaborative effort between Stone Island and Acronym the Shadow Project is a merger. A completely new theoretical tack on the preexisting archival resources of Stone Island, through the lens of Acronym. We present you a preview of the ‘08-’09 line, complete with the intriguing full story behind the aims and goals of this ambitious work.
We show you the complete collection, model shots as well as a video demonstrating the functionality of the collection.

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We bring you the first part of the Adidas aZX collection, a massive effort by Adidas in which they invited high profile brands and stores from around the globe to design their very own Adidas ZX model. This first part consists of collaborations with ACU, Bodega, Colette, D-Mop, Limiteditions, Foot Patrol, Goodfoot and Huf.
You will be impressed by the designs in this collection in terms of originality as well as use of materials and colors. There is a lot more to come in the following months, but what you see here is already a lot to digest and will be releasing on August 8th.
Here below detailed images of the first part of the project. More to come soon.
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Almost daily we are shown, or become aware, of a new sneaker collaboration. Stores, celebrities, bands and even YOU (via custom websites) have the opportunity to “design” (more aptly choose) colour schemes for longstanding favourites. The results are mixed. The hype derived from the perceived cool of the collaborator.

All too often, the selected model (or the model chosen for the collaborator) falls too close to the overly popular models. We see Reebok pumps, Nike Dunks, AF1s and Shell toes. Sure, we see a few runners, and the occasional surprise. But, most of the time things are just a touch predictable.

There are exceptions to this rule, in both brand and collaborator. On the brand level, PUMA has used a great number of their back catalogue for special editions. The Roma to celebrate a Johnny Damon All-Star game appearance. The RS-100 for a great collection featuring the art of BJ Betts. And, of course, the Clyde has proved very versatile. Latest in the high profile release mire is Puma’s work with Sneaker Freaker. Purveyor of sneaker history, news and related issues, the Magazine itself has already made waves with shock collaboration, namely meeting Lacoste.

Since 2003 Sneaker Freaker has documented the global phenomenon of sneaker mania. The craze for sneakers certainly captures the staff as well, who dive into all potential collaborations with incredible verve. Most recently, with Puma, the SF team produced two colour-ways of the Blaze of Glory. Once again throwing the sneaker community for a loop, Sneaker Freaker gets its hands on a long hibernating model, gives it some energy, and unleashes it with some secret animal DNA.

I spoke with Woody, founder and editor-in-chief of Sneaker Freaker, about the process of designing the shoe. While I had him, I figured who better to ask about the market as a whole and to clarify some perceptions I have.
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Richard Hobbs’ REAL REAL GENUINE produces limited, collaborative pieces that are true in nature. No marketing ploys, no ‘special holiday’ editions. Just garments and accessories (and even some fragrance) that are special because they ooze quality and personality. Hobbs translates a vast history of getting things made into an ethos of creating the best possible product, and he gives his customers the opportunity to join a rather exclusive club. I say this partly tongue in cheek, because while the numbers of the items are limited, the nature of the appeal is universal. RRG offers streetwear basics (denim, tees, and crews) that speak to an unspoken interest in the story, the quality, and the subtle differences which make “streetwear” appealing to so many people. 

Mr. Hobbs and I exchanged emails over the course of (roughly) a fortnight.
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Recently artist and toy designer Michael Lau was asked by Nike to design the chinese BMX collection. "As long as it has the swoosh on it," was the only requirement Sandy Bodecker, Nike’s VP of Global Design, asked of Michael Lau as they began work on the Nike China Federation BMX Racing Team Kit for the coming Olympics this August in Beijing.
A couple of weeks ago we had the pleasure of sitting down with the artist to talk about this adventure and of course we also show you the outcome, which includes a special Nike Blazer, a matching toy and the BMX Racing Team Kit.
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In 2002, I bought an Eagles Starter Parka on eBay for 28$US shipped. I also cut some fancy parts in my hair. My childhood swagger was back. Unfortunately, the jacket was roughly the same size I would have worn when I was eleven, and the haircut was not greeted warmly by women. I’d made a slight mistake, failing to fuse my nostalgic yearning with my contemporary needs.  

Last holiday season, when images of Starter jackets started appearing and rumors of a revamp began to buzz, memories of my youth (and my misguided style choices in 2002) were ignited. Recently, we were greeted to official confirmation of the rumors. Starter is back… or more appropriately, the brands profile has been reinvigorated. Helmed by Jeff Staple, Starter Black Label is sporting heritage meets contemporary sportswear.

Over email, Jeff shared some of his thoughts about and inspirations for Black Label.
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Taking inspiration from vintage clothing seems basic on the surface. However, rarely do people push beyond the basic rehashing of old themes and looks. Garbstore is about capturing a feeling in manufacturing and detail. Against the rash of retro style and nostalgic graphic pilfering, this approach is certainly refreshing. It proves the benefits of looking closely at material culture and extracting lessons from that exercise.

Having founded One True Saxon, and helmed R. Newbold and Red Ear in the Paul Smith empire, Ian Paley’s reputation speaks for itself. His experiences, no doubt, have provided him with necessary tools to pick apart aspects of the old and re-imagine them so cleanly. Garbstore is a brand hinged directly on the quality of its product and the joys of making new items.

Ian and I connected over the phone. He was in one capital city (London), and I was in another (DC). We did not talk politics.
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Honeyee has released their latest feature, presenting the complete 10AC Spring/Summer 2008 collection along with lots of background information. Check it out here.

NIKE’s history of creative collaborations with artists such as Junya Watanabe, Futura and Mr. Cartoon has resulted in building some of the brand’s most innovative shoes that have transcended sport and style, pushing the brand even further forward. For Summer 2008, NIKE will have a new creative partner for the Air Force 1: NIKE itself.
The Nike Air Force 1 comes remixed with some of the most iconic sneakers ever developed by Nike. We give a complete look at the collection and detailed background information.
Read the entire Feature here…

Honeyee has released a new feature presenting the first part of the Head Porter Plus Spring/Summer 2008 collection. With a “Get Away” theme they present a photo essay presenting the latest pieces that have arrived in stores. As usual a nice look, so check it out here.