NAOMI OSAKA x Levi’s
One of the highest-profile names in sports, Naomi Osaka, teams up with Levi’s for a limited-edition, four-piece collection made of vintage upcycled denim unlike anything Levi’s has done before. This collaboration with the 23-year-old tennis star draws inspiration from her roots, including a denim kimono and obi belt that gives a nod to her Japanese heritage
“I just feel like it took parts of everything that I loved…” said Osaka, and added “The sustainability aspect was super important to me,” “… I love that every piece in the collection has been recycled or repurposed from old stock.”
Another statement piece from the collection is a denim bustier made of reworked trucker jackets, complete with a lace-up back. Finally, you can also find two styles of denim shorts in the collection, one with lace-up details and the other one with crystal fringe. All four pieces are set to drop in select stores on August 24
The denim brand has said that Osaka is “a powerful young voice in the world of sports whose authenticity and willingness to stand up for important causes has helped inspire millions. In a very short time, she has become not only an iconic athlete, but a true ambassador for social change.”
SERENA WILLIAMS x Nike
The tennis superstar revealed a collection resulting from her latest collaboration with Nike. It’s a line of athleisure wear and accessories, created by a group of 10 up-and-coming designers from New York City, known as the “Serena Williams Design Crew”, or SWDC.
Williams says she partnered with the sports brand on the project to promote diversity in the fashion design community, aiming to bring more people of color into the world of fashion design.
“I want people from all walks of life to have the opportunity to be in the room,” Williams told CNN. “There’s so much incredible talent out there. I hope the next generation sees this program and is inspired to get involved.”
The collection, a combination of athletic gear and streetwear features jumpsuits, shorts, t-shirts, a collection of shoes and more, adorned with bold graphic prints and with vibrant colors, each aimed to capture Serena Williams’ personal style.
“Every design decision, down to the smallest details, was made with Serena in mind,” the company stated, and added: “Serena has been so committed to the program. She wants to meet each apprentice. She wants to see their portfolios. She wants to be a part of the briefing of the product. She wants to be a part of the design reviews.”
The complete collection will be available on Nike’s website and in stores beginning September 1st, meanwhile, the sportswear giant has already announced the second edition of the apprenticeship project.
