KEEN works in collaboration with Kyoto-based fashion imprint Loftman with inspiration stemming from the Honbo Garden North Garden at the city's Tonkukuji Temple. Taking KEEN's UNEEK silhouette as the base foundation of the collaboration, there are references to the garden through the color palette in a hybrid design that fuses the look of a sandal and sneaker.
The color palette directly nods to the stone slabs and moss from the garden and it runs across the checkerboard patterned upper. The moss and stone slabs are found in the northern area of the garden and the slaps are also seen by the footbed along with the new set of laces that are also designed in a checkerboard print.
Japanese Garden-Inspired Sneakers
KEEN and Loftman Join Forces Honoring the Honbo Garden
Trend Themes
1. Japanese Garden-inspired Fashion - Opportunity for fashion brands to use nature-inspired design in their products.
2. Hybrid Sandal-sneaker Designs - Opportunity for shoe companies to create new and unique designs by combining different styles.
3. Collaborations with Local Artists - Opportunity for businesses to work with artists and draw inspiration from local culture to create products with cultural significance.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Industry can draw inspiration from natural elements and collaborate with local artists to create unique products.
2. Footwear - Industry can experiment with blending different styles of footwear to create new designs.
3. Art - Industry can partner with businesses to create products that celebrate cultural significance and draw inspiration from local art and nature.