Biracial Sneakerhead: Tyrell Villania-Small

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

To be honest, there wasn't a particular moment that piqued my love for sneakers. Growing up, my parents used to lace me up with Jordan 1s, 5s, and 8s, so I guess these were the shoes that created the momentum.

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

One moment that resonates with me was when Louis Vuitton gave Lucien Clarke his skate shoe. This was more than just a skate shoe, which opened many doors for the future.

Suppose a luxury brand like Louis Vuitton can work with someone having the same complexion as me. It gives me the hope that I may have the same opportunity one day. It may be outlandish, but it's nice to know it's possible.

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

Exhilarating. It's so fun getting home after buying new shoes and trying on a bunch of different outfits with them.

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

My favorite brands in rotation right now include Bode, JW Anderson, Kapital, Raf Simons, Louis Vuitton, Human Made, CPFM, and Studio Nicholson.

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

I think BODE x CONVERSE would be pretty cool. It would be sustainable and aesthetic at the same time.

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

I'm into the Prada Derby, Stussy Birkenstock, Louis Vuitton Sprint, Converse 70's, Nike Mars Yard, and Louis Vuitton Trainers

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

I'm stuck between two; either Nike Air MAG or the College Dropout Bapesta.

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

I don't carry that many daily essentials besides a Sennheiser PXC-550 II, Senz Umbrella, and Apple Watch.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: tyrell.vanilla

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