Omar Quiambao works in collaboration with Vans on a new iteration of the iconic Slip-On sneaker model as a part of Hypebeast's Sole Mates project. The shoes are inspired by Omar Quiambao's childhood, growing up as a child that admired skateboarding. He describes the shoes as one that is democratic and accessible, yet still desirable.
He talks about the selection of the Slip-On, stating that "To this day, I still bring a pair of Slip-Ons with me when I travel. They’re easy to get through the airport, more than presentable enough to wear for a meeting and can fit into pretty much any lifestyle lane as well. I’m from the era where you wouldn’t get into a club if you were wearing "athletic footwear," and even back then they’d let you in if you were rocking a pair of leather Slip-Ons."
Street-Informed Slip-On Sneakers
Omar Quiambao Joins Vans on a New Vans Slip-On Shoe
Trend Themes
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Streetwear-inspired Sneakers — Opportunity for disruption in the sneaker industry by incorporating streetwear fashion into shoe designs.
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Accessible, Versatile Footwear — Innovation opportunity for making shoes that are democratic and accessible yet still desirable and versatile.
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Nostalgia-driven Design — Disruptive innovation opportunity for incorporating nostalgic elements into product design for a customer base that values sentimentality and familiarity.
Industry Implications
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Footwear Industry — Opportunity for brands in the footwear industry to collaborate with artists and designers to create unique shoe designs.
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Fashion Industry — Innovation opportunity for the fashion industry to adopt streetwear and skateboard culture influences and incorporate them into mainstream fashion.
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Retail Industry — Opportunity for retailers to target consumers who value nostalgia and sentimentalism by incorporating those elements into product design and marketing strategies.