Chicago-born artist Hebru Brantley works in collaboration with adidas Originals on two new iterations of the Forum sneaker models. The duo spotlight the artist's signature characters of Frogboy and Rocket with themes of science fiction in ways that align with honoring black culture as well.
Starting with the Forum Low iteration, it is designed in a blend of Light Blue with Core Black details, and the Forum Mid RT sneakers have a palette of Core Black with Tech Olive, and Cloud White. The artist updates the shoes with a vibrant set of hues and details of the characters for a playful look. The Low has the Rocket emblem on the tongue and there is a Frogboy graphic at the Mid RT's tongue with hot pink flat laces as well.
Cinematic-Themed Bright Sneakers
Hebru Brantly and adidas Launch Two New Forum Sneakers
Trend Themes
1. Cinematic-themed Sneakers - Collaboration between artists and fashion brands to create sneakers with sci-fi character designs and bright colorways is a trend that caters to the urban youth market.
2. Artist Collaborations - Collaborations between popular artists and footwear brands continue to be a trend that enhances limited edition sneaker drops and creates buzz within the sneaker community.
3. Honoring Black Culture - Sneaker collaborations that pay homage to Black culture by featuring designs and themes related to Black history, pop culture, and notable Black figures are becoming a more popular trend in the fashion world.
Industry Implications
1. Sneaker - The sneaker industry can take advantage of this trend by collaborating with urban artists to create high demand limited edition sneakers and tapping into the cultural zeitgeist of the youth market.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry can adopt this trend by creating a line of sneakers that feature unique designs and themes that create cultural relevance and appeal to a wider audience.
3. Art - The art industry can leverage this trend to create new opportunities for up-and-coming artists to showcase their work on a global platform and reach a new audience through collaborations with fashion brands.