Pauline Quiazon - Filipina Sneakerhead Interview

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

Growing up, my fashion sense was strongly influenced by my father, who was actively involved in music and skate culture. I used to dress like a boy as a kid, wearing Vans and Nikes instead of flats and sandals.

When I first became interested in sneakers (by choice), I got drawn to the Nike Stefan Janoski. When I visited Singapore in 2014, I bought my first pair of Janoskis. The color scheme was Gray-White-Military Blue.

Wearing and styling such sneakers sparked my interest in them. My fascination with Janoskis increased, and I eventually received my ideal shade, the Digi Floral Mandarin. My obsession with sneakers only grew from there.

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

As a music fan, the influence of hip-hop on sneaker culture speaks to me the most.

Hip-hop culture has had a big impact on sneaker culture by influencing style and fashion trends, facilitating brand partnerships and endorsements with influential artists, encouraging the emergence of sneaker collecting as a pastime, and even including sneakers references in songs.

This collaboration has boosted sneakers and has tremendously contributed to the creation of hype and a strong community of sneaker enthusiasts.

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

I've been beating up my Yeezy 700, Jordan 4, Jordan 1s (both high and low), Nike Cortez, and Converse Chuck Taylor 70.

I've also been loving sandals lately, and my current favorites are the Suicoke Moto-run and the Birkenstock Boston.

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

Getting and wearing a new pair of sneakers is an exciting experience.

The anticipation and excitement leading up to getting the coveted pair give me a sense of accomplishment, especially when I am finally able to buy a pair of sneakers that I have been searching for.

Unboxing the sneakers and appreciating the design for the first time excites me, and lastly, trying them on improves my confidence and allows me to express myself through my style.

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

I'd love to see Stussy work with New Balance.

As a fan of comfortable sandals, especially the Birkenstock Boston, I'd love to see an Aime De Lore x Birkenstock collaboration.

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

Stussy, Noah, and Kith are three of my most recent favorite brands.

These brands appeal to me since their items are both comfortable and fashionable. Many of their designs are timeless and can be dressed up or down depending on how you style them.

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have not acquired so far?

I'd love to own a pair of Travis Scott's Jordan 1s eventually.

Aside from that, I want to get my hands on the Nike Vaporwaffle Sacai, OFF-WHITE x Wmns Air Jordan 4 SP 'Sail', Kith x Clarks x adidas Samba, and many more!

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

Porter bags have recently become my obsession. In fact, on my most recent trip to Japan, I purchased two bags from Porter.

Beanies, trucker caps, and 5-panel caps are other favorites of mine.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @pauline.qzn