Clarks and Pokémon are continuing their relationship with a new collaborative footwear collection launching on Dec. 5.

With Clarks’ well-known Torhill style as a foundation, the collection builds upon Clarks and Pokémon’s 2023 collaboration, which featured Pokémon characters in their starter form; the characters featured in the new collection are in their fully-evolved form.

Four brightly colored high-top shoes are featured which correspond with four “Endgame” characters: Venusaur, Charizard, Blastoise, and Mewtwo, who is referred to as the hero of the collection. Available in unisex sizes, the shoe retails for $140 from the longstanding British footwear brand.

A turquoise suede iteration is an homage to Venusaur; an orange leather option references Charizard; a blue leather variation is for Blastoise; and a pink suede is for Mewtwo. The shoes feature reptile-effect collars which draw inspiration from each Pokémon’s specific traits.

A TPU-printed label with pixel art of each character is also on the shoe; additional features include custom fobs, flecked cotton laces and the chunky ’90s-inspired sole of the Torhill.

The Torhill draws from Clarks’ classic silhouettes, the Wallabee, Desert Boot and Desert Trek, which are high-tops with minimalist lacing.

Clarks’ previous collaboration with Pokémon, released in December 2023, paid homage to four different characters: Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle and Pikachu. This release also applied Pokémon-inspired designs to the Torhill, and the collection reached a 90% sell-out rate in a month’s time.

Clarks x Pokémon Collaboration Photos

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Known for being highly thoughtful in their consumer behaviors, Gen Z shoppers have been loud about their needs across retail categories, from sustainable options and inclusivity to convenience and a frictionless journey. Highly researched and reported on by the retail industry over the past several years, the cohort has quickly matured. And as the generation steps into its potential spending power, what’s clear is that these shoppers are emphasizing footwear.

To understand the Gen Z consumer, Beth Goldstein, executive director and industry analyst of accessories and footwear at Circana, said that it is “important to note that this crosses two very distinct cohorts — teens, who are still kids and young adults, and those in their 20s, who are now into adulthood, with jobs and potentially even families of their own. The priorities and needs of these two groups, and the subgroups within, are going to be very different, so it’s important to take these nuances into account when targeting Gen Z.”

With so many Gen Z shoppers falling into the teenage bracket, Circana’s data shows that about 60 percent of the dollars spent on teens’ footwear is generated by parents or other adults, leaving 40 percent of footwear sales by the generation to the teens themselves — not insignificant. Goldstein explained that this varies by age. Younger teens are buying very little of their footwear, while older teens (18-19) are buying most of their own footwear.

What’s clear about Gen Z’s footwear preferences is that the cohort loves sneakers.
Gen Z spends more than a third of their footwear dollars on sport lifestyle sneakers, a bit higher than older generations combined and the number one overall category.

“I think the expectation is that sneakers are appropriate in almost all situations,” said Goldstein. “They grew up with sneakers as their dress shoes.”

Notably, within the sports lifestyle sneaker category is the growing interest in retro styles. Retro resonates across age groups, with older generations remembering these styles with nostalgia. But for younger consumers, like Gen Z, these styles are new, made extra compelling by heritage elements.

Key franchises of the moment are the Adidas Samba, Gazelle and Campus 00s, with the SL
74 and Spezial beginning to see a reemergence. New Balance’s 1906, 530, 9060 and 2002 also hold popularity alongside the Nike Vomero, Killshot, P-6000 and V2K Run, while Asics has its 1130 style, and Puma’s Palermo and Speedcat are also finding new attention. All have roots in performance from histories with soccer, skating, running or motorsports.

While direct-to-consumer has become the top channel to shop for footwear across all age groups, Gen Z spends slightly more here on their footwear than older consumers. Online sales account for about 70 percent of footwear sales in direct-to-consumer.

Goldstein explained that this has likely become the top channel for footwear “because this is where consumers are getting the best brand experience, and the growth of online has made brand-specific retail very accessible.”

At the same time, many young consumers are interacting with brands directly through their social media platforms to large influence, leading them to shop. Sharpening the direct purchase experience on social media is a key opportunity.

To win over the Gen Z footwear shopper, Goldstein urged brands and retailers to start with lifestyle targeting, “recognizing the fact that the cohort spans dierent life stages and targeting appropriately.” For example, she said, “focusing on value for the older Gen Z with a young family and focusing on what’s hot in terms of brand and style to grab teens’ attention. Messaging needs to be relatable and real — tapping into the priorities of each group.”

Online and in-person, stores play an important role, and Gen Z values the social aspect of shopping in-store, as well as touching and feeling products. Still, “convenience and sales/deals come into play as well, and online wins out here. So brands and retailers need to understand that it’s not one versus the other. It’s an integrated experience that will keep Gen Z engaged.”

And while social and environmental consciousness does not outweigh other factors, concepts of diversity, inclusivity, individuality and sustainability are important to these young consumers. These values resonate more with Gen Z than any other generation, “so brands and retailers should be incorporating these aspects in a way that is aligned with their brand — it has to be authentic.”

To better understand how footwear brands and retailers can meet Gen Z consumers where they are, FN and Circana partnered on an exclusive report that serves as a blueprint for the mindset of today’s Gen Z consumers. Here are the results.

Size of generation

In 2023, Gen Z counted for nearly 69.3 million people — about 20 percent of the U.S. population. The generation is noticeably more diverse than previous generations, with 52 percent identifying as non-Hispanic white, 25 percent as Hispanic, 14 percent as Black, 6 percent as Asian and 5 percent as other races. In 2021, Gen Z Planet estimated that Gen Z had $360 billion in buying and spending power. (Source: eMarketer)

Share of wallet

Buyers aged 18-24 allocate the largest portion of their total spend to apparel (23 percent of their wallet), followed by home (21 percent) and technology (15 percent). Footwear comes in at fourth place (8 percent), with categories like automotive gaining share of wallet with this maturing audience. (Source: Circana, Checkout, 12 ME Sept ’24)

Gen Z sales by channel

More than 20 percent of Gen Z’s (ages 16-27) footwear spend goes to direct- to-consumer retailers, like Nike, Adidas and Ugg. Multibrand off-price gained the most share of the Gen Z spend in the last 12 months, at 7 percent. (Source: Circana, Consumer Tracking Service, 12 ME Sept ’24)

Top footwear categories purchased by Gen Z

Sneakers are the big winners with Gen Z. Sport lifestyle sneakers account for 38 percent of total footwear spend for this generation. Meanwhile, running shoes stand out as the only top category to grow in dollars. (Source: Circana, Consumer Tracking Service, 12 ME Sept ’24)

Market breakdown

While the total footwear market has declined by 1 percent, Gen Z is a bright spot for the category. In fact, footwear bought for Gen Z teen (14-19) wearers was the only growth area across all ages/ generations in the last year. Just over a quarter of the total spend in footwear in the U.S. is generated for Gen Z (age 14-27) wearers, which is a 6 percent increase year-over-year, equating to $23.5 billon of the total $89.5 billion spent on footwear. (Source: Circana, Consumer Tracking Service, 12 ME Sept ’24)

Gen Z’s Top Footwear Brands (by dollar sales): Nike, Jordan, Adidas, UGG, Vans and Converse.

5 Gen Z buyer purchase mindsets (Ages 18-26)

Fashion Forward: When asked “why are you planning on buying footwear in the next six months?” Gen Z over-indexes in “want something new for the season” and “want a new style of footwear.” They also under-index in “to replace an old pair/update my selection” relative to other generations, though that remained the top response.

Budget Conscious: Gen Z is more likely than other generations to say they have either delayed or skipped a footwear purchase or chosen a less-expensive option during the past six months.

Value Convenience: When asked where they expect to make future footwear purchases, Gen Z under-indexed in in-store shopping. Similar to other age groups, Gen Z reports convenience as the top reason to buy online, but they are also more likely to appreciate the ease of finding sales or discounts online.

Socially and Eco-conscious: When asked what eco-friendly/sustainable footwear looks like, the top response is long-lasting, high-quality products, followed by products made with recycled materials. This echoes sentiments of other generations, but 33 percent of Gen Z cited pre-owned or refurbished products (higher than all other generations).

Influenced: Over 80 percent of Gen Z uses social media to learn about or discover footwear brands and retailers online, with the top platforms for driving purchases being YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. (Source: Circana, Future of Footwear Custom Survey, July 2024)

Raven-Symoné and her wife Miranda Maday attended the 92nd anniversary of The Hollywood Christmas Parade supporting Marine Toys for Tots over the weekend in Hollywood. The couple brought along their dog.

Showing off their Christmas spirit, the couple dressed in contrasting cozy footwear options that aptly conveyed their personal style. Symoné opted for a pair of the chunky Dolce & Gabbana Mega Skate Sneaker in gray. The silhouette included thick, dark gray braided laces, a round toe, contrasting light gray nappa leather uppers and thick non-slip rubber soles in black.

The “That’s So Raven” star’s shoe pick is not unlike styles from top brands like Balenciaga, Fila, Adidas, New Balance, Hoka, Nike and Golden Goose, among others. Athletic and versatile, the sneaker choice expressed Symoné’s affinity for more androgynous styles of footwear and apparel, a style of dress her partner also dabbles in.

Maday went the classic fall route, sporting a pair of classic black booties. The YouTuber’s pick included glossy patent leather uppers in black accompanied by sharp pointed toes and what appeared to be block heels standing at around 2 to 3 inches in height.

Black boots are perfect for colder weather, given the silhouette encompasses the wearer’s feet, insulating and protecting from the elements. Similar styles to Maday’s own can be shopped from brands like Coach, Dolce Vita, J. Crew, Veronica Beard and Gianvito Rossi just to name a few.

On the outfit front, Symoné took to cozy dressing, wearing a boxy gray hoodie paired with dark gray baggy jeans. The actress rounded out her look with a slew of silver jewelry. Maday wore high-waisted blue jeans accompanied by a bright red sweater and a fitted leather jacket. The social media star accessorized with thick black sunglasses with yellow-tinted lenses along with an array of gold jewelry. The couple’s combined look was casual and cool while remaining practical and warm.

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Top adidas Gifts of 2024

adidas Gazelle Indoor Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $120.00

adidas Bad Bunny Campus Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $112

adidas Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $135

adidas Adifom Stan Smith Mules

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Buy Now at Adidas $46.00

adidas Country OG Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $100.00

adidas Terrex Unity Leather Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $80.00

adidas Samoa Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $52.00

adidas Samba OG Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $100.00

adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $120.00

adidas Supernova Rise Running Shoes

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Buy Now at Adidas $140.00

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You don’t have to be a die-hard sneakerhead to appreciate a great shoe gift for him or sneaker gift for her, particularly when it’s one from adidas. Our Footwear News editors consider the Three Stripes a one-stop shop for holiday gifting, whether you’re shopping for your friend who’s always making predictions on the next ‘It’ sneaker or a runner who needs responsive cushioning to crush their next PR.

2024 has been a year full of major comebacks for some of the most iconic adidas sneakers, including Gazelles, Sambas and Stan Smiths. These styles have popped up in tons of different colors (the brand’s burgundy sneakers, in particular, continue to trend) and through collaborations with stars like Bad Bunny. The Samba even took home the prize for Shoe of the Year at Footwear News Achievement Awards’ in 2023. 

While a major part of adidas’ surge in popularity is due to its lifestyle sneakers, the brand is also known for their running and workout styles that make equally great gifts for sneakerheads, runners, and gym rats. The Ultraboost and Supernova lines have been staples for runners for years, and adidas has only improved on previous iterations of the sneakers in 2024 with launches like the Ultraboost 5x sneakers. These silhouettes offer as much support as they do style, which is a hard combo to come by. From brightly-colored lifestyle options to sleek running shoes for the marathoners in your life, it’s hard to think of a single person who wouldn’t be amped to see these under the tree. 

Now is a great time to stock up for yourself and everyone on your holiday shopping lists, as many of our editors’ favorite adidas sneaker gifts are currently on sale during Cyber Week shoe deals. That means that the most popular shoes will be quick to sell out — to help you out, we’ve rounded up our editor-tested favorites to add to your e-cart now.

adidas Gazelle Indoor Shoes

$120.00 Buy Now at Adidas

The only difficult consideration when it comes to these shoes is which color to get. This brown colorway has been making a major comeback, but the bright blue and green options are also always a good idea. Made with a leather and synthetic upper, these retro kicks are trending on TikTok with nearly 60 million posts.

Price upon publish date of this article: $120

adidas Bad Bunny Campus Shoes

On Sale 30% off

$112 Buy Now at Adidas

It’s hard to find a cooler shoe than this Bad Bunny and adidas collab. The sandy beige colorway makes them easy to pair with jeans or joggers, but it’s the incognito comfort that will have your giftee itching to slip them on: These adidas walking shoes have contoured outsoles and a leather upper that contours to your feet the more you wear them. 

Price upon publish date of this article: $112

adidas Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes

On Sale 25% off

$135 Buy Now at Adidas

The latest Ultraboost sneakers are a no-brainer gift for runners. The Ultraboost 5X Shoe is the most lightweight version of the beloved adidas running shoes, crafted with a new adaptive Primeknit upper for blister-free comfort straight out of the box.

Price upon publish date of this article: $135

adidas Adifom Stan Smith Mules

On Sale 34% off

$46.00 Buy Now at Adidas

Go big or go home! These chunky Adifom Stan Smith Mules have large proportions that the cool girl on your gifting list will love to style. A two-inch platform provides a height boost without straining the feet, while a roomy last and rounded toe box make them a great pair of shoes for those with wide feet. Available in nine different colorways from muted to statement-making, these are great for far-flung, sunny getaways or gardening at home.

Price upon publish date of this article: $46

adidas Country OG Shoes

$100.00 Buy Now at Adidas

This super retro style has been enjoying a major comeback, thanks to their sleek silhouette that plays into today’s retro sneaker trends. This burgundy and silver colorway of the Country OG sneakers feels apropos for holiday gifting — and hits on two of the year’s hottest sneaker color trends.

Price upon publish date of this article: $100

adidas Terrex Unity Leather Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes

On Sale 20% off

$80.00 Buy Now at Adidas

Get them ready to hit the trails with these supportive and ultra-grippy hiking shoes. A nubuck leather upper will mold to their feet with regular wear, while adidas’ RAIN.RDY technology keeps feet dry in wet conditions. Most importantly, adidas designed these trail shoes with a Traxion rubber outsole to keep them stable on any terrain they’re exploring.

Price upon publish date of this article: $80

adidas Samoa Shoes

On Sale 35% off

$52.00 Buy Now at Adidas

If they already have multiple pairs of Sambas and Gazelles on hand, surprise them with an under-the-radar pair of retro adidas sneakers. These Samoa shoes feature the low profile that trendsetters are loving right now, done with a pebbled leather upper and a distinct rubber toe bumper to add a sporty touch to any outfit.

Price upon publish date of this article: $52

adidas Samba OG Shoes

$100.00 Buy Now at Adidas

It doesn’t get much more classic than the OG Sambas, which earned a coveted spot on Footwear News’ list of the greatest shoes of all time this year. They’ve been spotted on celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Katie Holmes, Kendall Jenner, and many, many more, and this neutral colorway makes them easy to style in any adidas Samba outfit.

Price upon publish date of this article: $100

adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes

$120.00 Buy Now at Adidas

Take their adidas shoe style to new heights with these Gazelle Bold sneakers that feature a triple stacked gum sole and on-trend suede upper. We’ve seen multiple colorways sell out in recent months, so they’ll count their lucky stars that you secured them a pair.

Price upon publish date of this article: $120

adidas Supernova Rise Running Shoes

$140.00 Buy Now at Adidas

There’s no better way to kickstart their New Year’s resolution — or cap off the perfect athleisure outfit — than with these sleek running shoes. The Supernova Rise Running Shoes feature Dreamstrike+ technology for cushioning and impressive responsiveness, plus Support Rods that keep the feet in proper alignment from foot strike to toe off.

Price upon publish date of this article: $140

How We Selected the Best adidas Gifts of 2024

 For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

Our Footwear News editors are always testing adidas lifestyle sneakers, running shoes, and technical footwear like hiking boots. Each pair of shoes on our list has been vetted by an editor and earned high marks during testing for value, comfort, and performance. Beyond personal testing, our editors created this list to reflect current sneaker trends as well as top-rated adidas shoe styles. We made sure to include adidas gift options for men and women that cater to different stylistic preferences, foot types, and activities. Learn more about us here. 

Meet the Author

Brittany Loggins is a freelance writer who’s work has been published in outlets like WWD, InStyle, Real Simple, The Cut, and Architectural Digest. During her journalism career, she has spent hours researching and testing products across fashion, home, and beauty categories. Loggins wrote this article on top adidas gifts of 2024.

Mephisto and Fursac have joined forces on a new footwear collaboration.

For this tie-up, the two French brands have teamed up on Mephisto’s Dribbler sneaker model. Available in white with silver accents and navy with some black touches, this pair nods playfully to those who might have missed the renewed vision both brands have embraced in recent years

For Fursac, this evolution has been spearheaded by artistic director Gauthier Borsarello since 2021, whose passion for vintage collection-pieces and true craftsmanship has influenced his take on the Mephisto iconic design.

“This collaboration was born of shared values: a shoe that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, bridging generations while celebrating the heritage and expertise of our brands,” Borsarello said in a statement. “White and navy were natural choices, the Fursac French wardrobe’ colors. I love the versatility of the Dribbler, elevating an elegant look as seamlessly as it completes a relaxed, casual outfit.”

Details of the shoe include the rubber “Run” sole, which incorporates three exclusive Mephisto technologies. The “Airbag System,” made from soft rubber and visible through a transparent window, pairs with the “Shock Absorber” for cushioning and bounce, while the “Soft Air” feature ensures a comfortable fit inside. The supple leather upper completes the look.

Axel Cattaux, designer at Mephisto, added that the Dribbler remains an “iconic model” for the brand. “Its clean, simple lines beautifully highlight the quality of our leathers and craftsmanship, expressing the true DNA of Mephisto: to offer products that merge contemporary style with unmatched comfort,” Cattaux said. “This timeless design integrates perfectly into the Fursac wardrobe, revealing the modernity and transgenerational appeal of our brands.”

The collaborative Fursac x Mephisto Dribbler sneaker, which retails for 400 euros, is now available in Fursac’s flagship store as well as online at fursac.com.

Katie Holmes was spotted today in New York all bundled up.

Keeping it casual while she fights off the freezing weather, the “First Daughter” star laced up a pair of Autry Medalist low-top mixed leather and suede sneakers in a white and taupe colorway. Retailing for $200 via Mr Porter, the silhouette featured mainly white leather uppers mixed in with suede accents that provided a textural contrast.

White cotton laces gave way to almond-shaped toes and vibrant blue and red Autry logo detailing on the sides. Chunky thick rubber soles rounded out the set. The sneaker is meant to mimic the style that came before it, imparting a retro vibe. The Medalist low-top comes in a variety of colorways from neutrals to more eye-popping takes.

As casual as her footwear, the “Batman Begins” actress donned shiny black jogging slacks and a gray collared zip-up all layered beneath a long black wool coat. As for accessories, Holmes toted a Manu Atelier Le Cambon 35 Silk Grey Nubuck bag accompanied by a Canyons of the Unknown Ranch “dad” hat and ultra-chunky black sunnies with oval-shaped frames.

Holmes is best known for her classic “everywoman” style, often re-wearing beloved pieces year-round. On the footwear front, the “All We Had” director keeps her selections classic with Veja and Adidas sneakers, Gucci loafers, and Bottega Veneta mules. Holmes is particularly fond of Adidas’ Samba style, having been spotted in the on-trend silhouette on numerous occasions.

Beyond her sharp off-duty shoes, Holmes’ ties to the fashion industry have also earned her an Olay brand ambassador title. The thespian has also starred in campaigns for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Miu Miu and Ann Taylor. Adding to her impressive fashion resume, Holmes was also the co-founder of the fashion line Holmes & Yang, launched with her then-stylist Jeanne Yang, from 2011 to 2014.

Katie Holmes’ Red Carpet Shoe Style Through the Years [Photos]

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Lane Eight, the sustainable performance sneaker brand founded by brothers James and Josh Shorrock, is closing down by year’s end.

“We wanted to let you know that unfortunately we have had to make the difficult decision to close down Lane Eight at the end of this year,” the brand wrote in a message shared on social media. “While we’ve had a great run creating some of the best sustainable workout shoes, all good things must come to an end.”

FN has reached out to Lane Eight for comment.

Prior to launching Lane Eight, the Shorrock brothers were already well-versed in all things footwear. Josh Shorrock had worked for Adidas in Vietnam and James Shorrock was a footwear editor at Hypebeast. They founded Lane Eight in 2017, and the brand’s first shoe, the Trainer AD 1 — which blended lifestyle appeal with performance characteristics — debuted a year later.

Over the years, the brand continued to deliver stylish, sustainable looks for the fitness fanatic, including the Relay Trainer running shoe in 2023 and the reworked Trainer AD 1 in 2020 that was made without animal-derived materials and featured algae-based Bloom material midsoles. Lane Eight also never strayed from its sustainability mission, and in 2022, it revealed its mission to have a global net zero carbon footprint by 2030.

The brand’s journey, however, was not without challenges. For instance, Lane Eight announced in September 2021 that it was putting its U.S. business on “pause” amid supply chain challenges the broader industry experienced during COVID-19. The brand relaunched its U.S. website in April 2022.

Before closing for good, Lane Eight announced a final sale, with discounts of up to 70 percent off all of of its footwear via Laneeight.com.

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.

After several shoe collaborations with brands like Hey Dude and Oliver Cabell, Lee is set to launch its own footwear line next year.

The Kontoor Brands-owned denim label has inked a new licensing agreement with Jack Schwartz Shoes for Lee branded men’s footwear.

Set to debut in the second half of 2025, Lee said its new men’s shoe range will focus on contemporary takes on athletic and casual styles including a classic court sneaker, basketball and skate-inspired designs, a casual comfort city sneaker and a heritage lace-up boot inspired by ‘90s footwear.

Retail prices for the new men’s collection will be under $100 and will be sold on Lee.com and at select retailers. The first collection will be presented to retail buyers during FFANY market week in NYC next month.

“Footwear is a natural extension of apparel, and we’re thrilled to be working with Jack Schwartz Shoes on this initiative,” Steve Armus, vice president of global licensing and partnerships at Lee, said in a statement. “JSS has a long-standing heritage and is an expert in this industry. They understand how to create quality products that provide a value; I’m confident this line will resonate with our everyday consumer.”

David Schwartz, president of Jack Schwartz Shoes, added that the partnership “came together naturally.”

“Marrying our craftsmanship and expertise in the footwear space with the branding and heritage of Lee fits seamlessly,” Schwartz said. “The brand’s DNA is articulated within our design language, so no matter which silhouette appears in front of the customer, they’ll know it’s Lee footwear.”

Schwartz added that Lee footwear will “fill a void” within the market. “The blurring lines of casual and athletic have provided us with the perfect opportunity,” Schwartz continued. “Our priority and dedication to consumers looking for a brand that reflects their needs and focus lie within three key pillars: comfort, style, and price. It can fit well, look good, and be priced right in today’s world. We’ll prove that.”

Founded in 1936, Jack Schwartz Shoes got its start in the industry as a wholesaler of well-known brands such as Kent Howard and Charles Walker. In 1976, the company launched its first branded line of footwear, Pro Players. Now, in addition to licenses like this one with Lee and others like Ben Sherman, Jack Schwartz Shoes sells shoes through its owned brands, including Lugz and British Knights.

This deal comes just months after Lee competitor Levi Strauss & Co. announced it was exiting its footwear business. In April, Levi’s president and chief executive officer Michelle Gass said the company was “deprioritizing and ultimately exiting” its footwear business, which is based in Europe and never reached significant scale. The move came as part of the denim giant’s Project Fuel productivity plan, which led to $116 million in severance and other charges in the first quarter and is intended to focus the business as it pivots for more direct-to-consumer business.

Ashley Graham took a style note from the racing world when she dressed up for the F1 Grand Prix on Nov. 25, wearing Puma’s Speedcat sneaker to round out a chic look. It was a most fitting footwear choice, as the coveted shoe was originally designed for F1 racers before it was reimagined and released to the public.

Graham looked stylish in a mostly black ensemble featuring an animal print V-neck bralette beneath a sheer black high-neck mesh top. This layered look was paired with black wide-leg trousers above which a strip of animal print fabric could be seen which matched her bralette. She also wore a fuzzy black jacket draped over her shoulders in addition to layered gold necklaces and more glamorous jewelry. Her brown hair was worn out in tumbling waves.

Graham added a sporty touch to her look with the Puma Speedcat OG, one of the trendiest sneakers on the market right now. She opted for the black and white version of the suede and leather low-top sneaker, which features the Puma Formstrip across the side in addition to another branding accents. The shoe is certainly having a moment in the spotlight this year — Lyst’s Q3 index named the Speedcat the hottest sneaker in the world. Puma knows demand is high; the red colorway of the shoe is slated for a restock this week.

Ashley Graham is far from the only celebrity fan of the sneaker style — ahead of F1, Dua Lipa and Rosé starred in a campaign for a relaunch of the OG Speedcat. Additionally, Emily Ratajowski owns the Speedcat in multiple colors, including red and brown. Like Graham, Jennifer Lawrence stepped out in a black and white version to attend a sporting event, wearing the shoes while at a World Series game in October.

Ashley Graham’s Shoe Style Evolution Through the Years

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Camila Cabello has linked with Japanese brand Grounds to deliver her own take on their popular Moopie silhouette.

Drawing inspiration from her latest album, “C,Xoxo,” as well as her Miami roots, the bold sneaker’s “Blue Hour” colorway pays homage to the coastal city’s blue sky and ocean. Cabello’s limited-edition version of the brand’s signature statement shoe, the “Moopie,” features a white mesh upper with gray overlays, light blue piping, blue pull tabs, and playful silver bubble rubber soles.

Taking to Instagram to debut the collaboration, the “Havana” hitmaker shared a slideshow of herself modeling the daring lace-up sneakers in bed. “@grounds.official and I have collaborated to make our own blue hour shoe inspired by c,xoxo and the blue colors of the Miami post-sunset sky,” she captioned the post. “I wore Grounds so much while writing this album and festival rehearsals, they’re unique and comfy and they make me taller hehe.”

The Cuban-born singer-songwriter models a white graphic cropped tee with turquoise sleeves and coordinating gym shorts in campaign images for the collaboration. The casual sporty outfit complemented the unique shoes effortlessly.

The Tokyo label created by Mikio Sakabe is best known for its flamboyant footwear designs with the “Moopie” collection defined by its exaggerated bubble outsoles. The head-turning style comes in versions with and without laces, as well as a Mary Jane-inspired option. The brand was founded in 2018 and originally named Giddy Up before rebranding.

The Grammy-nominated artist’s love of bold shoes translates to her red carpet style. She regularly wears styles like sparkly pumps and sky-high platform heels when getting dressed up. Recently, she has stepped out in sheer stilettos, patent leather Timberland booties, and Simone Rocha’s avant-garde pleated ballet flat pumps set on a clear sculpted heel.

Retailing at $460, you can pre-order the Moopie x Camila Cabello ‘Blue Hour’ now through Dec. 27 on grounds.com.

Flip through the gallery below to discover Camila Cabello’s style evolution.

Camila Cabello’s Style Through the Years

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