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Australian Sneakerhead and Air Jordan Fan: Venice Lacerna

Interviews

Camille Lumogdang
September 20, 2022

Vinnie @venice_lacerna still remembers vividly how she walked into Footlocker in Melbourne and fell in love with Air Jordan 4's then started learning about sneaker culture ever since. She also loves Essentials as she likes to dress minimally.

What was the moment you first got drawn to sneakers, and which pair of sneakers triggered your passion?

I remember going to Australia with my family, walking into Footlocker in Melbourne, and seeing all the Jordans on the wall. I didn't know what it was or what the name was. I didn't know absolutely anything about sneakers! All I knew was I was intrigued by the designs and variety Jordan had. I instantly searched it all up. I learned about the stories behind the shoes and why they were so unique; I looked at the different silhouettes of Jordan and instantly fell in love with Jordan 4s.

The sneaker that triggered my passion was my first pair, the Air Jordan 1 Mid WMNS Light Grey. I remember as soon as they handed me the bag, I didn't let go of it until I got home. I watched videos, read articles, and learned the basics of sneakers. I knew then I had found comfort and passion for sneakers.

What’s one moment or trend in the history of sneaker culture that resonates with you?

When Adidas NMDs were the most popular shoes around the end of 2015 going into 2016. I remember seeing them pop up online, and it took everyone like a wave; I got a pair myself. I thought they were pretty cool and super comfy. Like anything else, the hype around NMDs died off like most trends. It's funny to see how much history repeats itself because now we have Kanye West's "Yeezys" to replace NMDs.

Please describe how it feels to you when you get and wear a new pair of kicks?

Without doubt… ALWAYS WEAR FRESH SOCKS! It's like getting into a new car. That new shoe smell is unbeatable. I always do my routine of checking for any flaws on the shoe, matching different laces to add variety, and lastly, a few or more coats of protector. I love looking in my closet and finding what outfits to match my new kicks.

What are some of your favorite creators/designers or brands and why?

One of my favorite designers is Takashi Murakami. His trademark of the Murakami flower, which he implements in most of his designs, is eye-catching, simple, and cute! I love the way he makes his art stand out from the rest using art styles such as pop art and contemporary art.

A brand I truly appreciate because of its simplicity and quality is ESSENTIALS. I'm minimal in how I dress, so when I found ESSENTIALS, I loved it, especially its quality and fit. You always need basics in your wardrobe, even with having a few white t-shirts.

What is one sneaker collaboration that doesn’t exist, but you wish/think should exist?

Tyler, The Creator x Nike. I cannot express how badly I want this collab to happen; I have seen mock-ups online and sketched my designs. I feel this collab would be a dream come true not just for Nike fans but for Tyler, The Creator fans too!

What are some of the current pairs of sneakers in your rotation?

My current beaters in my collection are my Air Jordan 4 "Military Black" and my Air Jordan 1 "Court Purple 2.0". I've been appreciating wearing my Nike SB Dunks lately. Another favorite is the Nike SB Dunk Lows "Parra Abstract Art." Of course, I can't forget some classic Air Max 90s! Anyone who knows me knows I beat almost every shoe in my collection to its absolute completion; I'll still wear it even when it's starting to talk.

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have not managed to acquire so far?

Air Jordan 4 Kaws. I would do anything for that shoe! But sadly, they don't come in my size. I love Kaws and the fact that they did a shoe! I love it. If I ever got those 4s, I don't even think I would have the guts to wear it, let alone wear it out.

Other than kicks, what are some of your daily essentials or treasured items?

My custom pinky ring and my Casio watch are two of my favorite items. I always wear it, it's simple and goes with every outfit. A tote bag or a small pouch is always a necessity; no chappy lips around here. I always carry lip balm with me!

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @venice_lacerna

Do you have a sneaker collection that you wish to showcase or share with the world? Or maybe you have some hyped deadstock that you wish to sell. Join Ox Street as an early community member in our beta stage today and get $25 SGD off your first order (while discount slots last).

An engineer who loves writing in her spare time.