Legendary pro surfer and "creative visionary" Alex Knost is the latest individual to enter a collaboration with beloved sneaker company Vans. The partnership seeks to reimagine two silhouettes — one is the iconic Sk8-Hi 138 Decon SF, while the second is the Style 36 Decon SF, which is identified as "one of the oldest designs in [Vans'] footwear archive."
The inspiration for the sneakers is also quite interesting and unconventional. The ultra-sophisticated and alluring colorway of the two models is derived from Alex Knost's ‘80s Coupe de Ville Cadillac. Naturally, certain nods to surf culture can also be identified throughout the design. As a result, the style of the uppers, which are shiny and attention-captivating, issue nods to retro styles.
Cadillac-Informed Sneaker Silhouettes
Vans Joins Forces with Alex Knost for a Slick Collaboration
Trend Themes
1. Cadillac-inspired Sneakers - The collaboration between Vans and Alex Knost showcases the trend of incorporating automotive design and aesthetics into footwear.
2. Nostalgic Retro Styles - The use of shiny and attention-captivating uppers pays homage to retro designs, highlighting the trend of reviving nostalgic fashion.
3. Athletic-inspired Fashion - The partnership between Vans and Alex Knost blends surf culture and sneaker design, reflecting the trend of incorporating athletic influences into fashion.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear - The collaboration between Vans and Alex Knost presents disruptive innovation opportunities for shoe brands to infuse automotive and retro inspirations into their designs.
2. Fashion - The trend of incorporating automotive and nostalgic elements in footwear offers disruptive innovation opportunities for fashion brands to create unique and attention-grabbing products.
3. Sports and Lifestyle - The fusion of surf culture and sneaker design showcased in the collaboration between Vans and Alex Knost presents disruptive innovation opportunities for sports and lifestyle brands to tap into the growing demand for athletic-inspired fashion.