I hosted events at work, and mind you, I wasn't big into dressing up or fashion, so at the time I really just threw on a semi-formal look for all of my hosting gigs.
But then came our first-ever singing competition, and my managers went all out, participating as judges for the day. Elegant tops, neutral colors, form-fitting jeans or comfy sweats and, of course, sneakers complete the whole look.
I remember one of them wearing the Jordan 1 'Golden Harvest' and how it just elevated his style and how it could cross the boundary between being elegant and casual.
From there, I began my sneaker hunt and developed an awareness of the story behind sneakers' design, color, and even styling. So if I can talk the talk as a host, then I should walk the walk and stand out as one.
I would say that the pandemic in 2020 had its own effect on sneaker culture. For some reason, it provided many of us with an opportunity to share our passions on online platforms. Most of my sneakerhead buddies I met on YouTube and Instagram.
From discussing the documentary "Last Dance" to shooting Zoom call videos around shoe reviews, releases, and trends. We were all looking forward to the day when we all get together and finally put miles on our new kicks.
That's how I imagine it should be. Sneakers, fashion, collectibles, etc. connected you closer to other people sharing the same enthusiasm and introduced you to new trends and aesthetics you wouldn't think of trying without a little push.
My current rotation is all about variety, from $100 picks like Sambas and Dunks to dad-shoes and unique performance models.
I love my Jordan 4s and 1s, but my favorite has to be the A Ma Maniere Jordan line.
Wearing new sneakers makes you walk taller and speak with a certain swagger. An overall confidence booster in my opinion
It also offers you the enthusiasm to try out new outfits and upgrade your current wardrobe.
I'd love to see a collaboration between Kendrick Lamar/J.Cole and Jordan brand (specifically a Jordan 4).
I'd love to see either of my favorite rappers collaborate with my favorite Jordan silhouette.
I've been loving the A Ma Maniere Jordan collection lately because of how beautiful it is and how unique the color palettes are.
But, when it comes to design, I've always appreciated Jerry Lorenzo's work.
To a certain point, it is always developing, from his grunge era in fashion to determining trends with his Fear of God Essentials brand, and even creating a new sneaker silhouette for Nike to becoming the helm of adidas' basketball division's creative and business strategy.
In the realm of the attainable, it would be the Off-White Jordan 4 in a Women's 13.5 since it's hard looking for extended sizing on that pair with a reasonable price.
But in the realm of the unattainable, it would probably be the Undefeated 4's or the Carhartt x Eminem 4's"
I'm slowly becoming interested in watches, but my phone and sneakers have been my main essentials; especially in my own brand of content creation.
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