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# Brogue-Style Skateboard Sneakers
The Vans Varsity Sneakers are at Once Laidback and Preppy

By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2024-09-12 | Fashion
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-varsity
References: [highsnobiety](https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/vans-tokyo-design-collective-varsity/) & [vans](https://www.vans.com)

The [Vans Varsity](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-2-eyelet) sneakers have been unveiled by the [Vans Tokyo Design Collective](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-varsity-collection) (TDC) as a footwear style that toes the line between formal shoes and laidback pairs alike. The shoes have the form of the iconic OLD SKOOL and [SK8-MID](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/anarchy-is-the-key) styles in mind, but are paired with a series of decorative punch holes that give them a brogue-style profile from the front. The sneakers are paired with contrasting splashes of color on these brogue-style tips and thus will catch the attention of onlookers thanks to their color blocked profile.

The Vans Varsity sneakers are a Japanese exclusive that will be available for purchase starting September 14, 2024 alongside a range of additional preppy Americana fashion styles.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 4.6/10
- Popularity: 57% | Activity: 52% | Freshness: 28%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Hip Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/hipfashion)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Formal-casual Hybrid Footwear:** Footwear that merges formal elements like brogue-style detailing with casual sneaker comfort is gaining traction as a versatile fashion trend.
- **Color-blocked Design:** Vivid, contrasting color schemes in sneaker designs are becoming popular for their ability to capture attention and make a fashion statement.
- **Japanese Exclusive Releases:** Exclusive product releases for specific markets, such as the Vans Varsity sneakers in Japan, are creating unique demand and cultural touchpoints.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Footwear Manufacturing:** The integration of traditional brogue-style elements into modern sneakers presents new product design opportunities for footwear manufacturers.
- **Fashion Retail:** Retailers are seeing increased interest in hybrid fashion items that blend different stylistic elements, appealing to a broader consumer base.
- **International Product Launches:** The strategy of region-specific exclusive releases can help brands build local market resonance and consumer loyalty.

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