Kevin Durant originally debuted the first ‘Aunt Pearl’ colorway in honor of his late aunt who passed away from lung cancer. Due to the pair’s close relationship, Durant’s ‘Aunt Pearl’ colorways have been surfacing ever since 2012, allowing him to celebrate her legacy as a part of his own. The latest iteration is the Nike KD 15 in ‘Aunt Pearl,’ a colorway that continues the tradition of boasting a mostly-pink design.
The shoe features pink color blocking and small details that reference Durant’s Aunt Pearl and the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. The shoe features a mixed material construction of suede, mesh, and rubber, while floral patterns decorate most of the design. Kevin Durant’s initials can be found on the tongue, while the Swoosh has been decorated with a mosaic pattern.
The Nike KD 15 in ‘Aunt Pearl’ will release in the near future via Nike for $160 USD.
Family-Focused Pink Shoes
Kevin Durant Introduces Another 'Aunt Pearl' Colorway for His Late Aunt
Trend Themes
1. Aunt-pearl-inspired Footwear - There is an opportunity for other athletes or shoe companies to create footwear that pays tribute to an inspiring or influential family member who has passed away.
2. Celebrity-philanthropic Collaborations - Collaborations between athletes and philanthropic organizations can be a powerful way to raise awareness and funds for important causes.
3. Breast-cancer Awareness Fashion - As more fashion and athletic brands produce pink-hued merchandise to support breast cancer, there's an opportunity to increase fundraising and awareness efforts in this space.
Industry Implications
1. Athletic Footwear - Athletic footwear brands can expand their customer base and support causes important to their customers by producing special edition shoes that pay tribute to inspiring family members.
2. Philanthropy - Philanthropic organizations can increase their fundraising efforts by collaborating with high-profile celebrities and athletes to create merchandise that supports important causes.
3. Breast Cancer Awareness - Fashion and athletic brands can leverage their popularity and reach to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment by producing pink-hued merchandise.