Masha Popova is the latest to create a new variation of the adidas Superstar sneaker model. There is a center focus on retooling but the silhouette goes much further. Popova explains the concept to Highsnobiety, sharing, "The idea of aging is really central to my practice; I wanted to create a shoe that would fade and change with time in the same way. It was important that the shoes become a natural extension of the rest of the collection."
The silhouette was specifically handmade for the Spring/Summer 2025 Masha Popova runway shoe. All of the designs are adorned with five layers of specialized paint which is meant to wear down to show off the fabric underneath.
Image Credit: Guy Bolongaro
What's Driving This Trend
- Aging-effect Footwear
- Shoes designed to visibly age over time offer a unique aesthetic that reflects wear and personal experience.
- Handcrafted High-fashion Sneakers
- Combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sneaker design forms a bridge between artisanal methods and modern footwear trends.
- Layered Paint Technology
- Specialized multi-layered paint on shoes that gradually reveals different patterns and textures introduces an element of surprise and personalization.
Who This Affects Most
- Fashion
- Innovative design elements in footwear such as visible aging effects push the boundaries of what is considered high fashion.
- Footwear Manufacturing
- Advanced production techniques that involve intricate layer application and handcrafted details elevate the standard for sneaker manufacturing.
- Textile and Dyeing
- Specialized paints that wear down in unique patterns create new opportunities for custom textile treatments and product differentiation.
