In the vast universe of sneakers, Vans has etched its mark with designs that effortlessly bridge the gap between skate parks and high fashion. It's no wonder, then, that when LA's eclectic menswear label, Goodfight, teamed up with this iconic sneaker brand, they were poised to diverge from the norm. Instead of reimagining a well-worn classic, they delved deep into Vans' archives, shining a light on the Vans Style 93 LX—a Mary Jane-inspired silhouette from 1994. The outcome? A collaboration that’s as refreshingly audacious as it is steeped in sneaker history.
While many would opt for the classic Slip-Ons or the eternal Sk8-Hi, Goodfight looked beyond the typical. "Mary Janes have been a cornerstone of our brand's narrative," Goodfight's creative director Julia Chu revealed to GQ. Their inaugural lookbook in 2018 even featured this style, cementing its significance. But it's not just about the nostalgia; it’s about modern reimagination. With a penchant for pushing boundaries, the Goodfight team, alongside Vans designer Taka Hayashi, embarked on a journey of reshaping and rethinking the Style 93 LX.
Reinventing a classic is no small task. The shoe's footbed underwent significant modifications, ensuring it's attuned to contemporary, unisex sensibilities. The suede accents, subtle yet luxurious, playfully juxtapose with the traditional Vans waffle sole—a must-have for the LA-rooted brand, as pointed out by Caleb Lin, Goodfight’s brand director. The pièce de résistance? Detachable plastic orchids that sit atop, drawing inspiration from vintage shoelace clips. A whimsical addition, they also signify the cultural depth of the orchid in Asian traditions and the American prom corsage.
This collaboration is not just a pair of sneakers—it's a testament to innovation. "Launching this during such a landmark year for us, especially after opening our flagship store and dressing Oscar attendees, feels like a dream," expressed Lin. Beyond the shoes, a clothing capsule collection further elevates this partnership. Think varsity jackets with a perfect fit, satin camp collar shirts, and graphic tees, all exuding Goodfight's quintessential charm.
The Style 93 LX, available in both monochrome shades, is set to drop at Goodfight's LA store and website on August 24 alongside their apparel; a footwear-only release will follow on Vans.com and select Vault by Vans outlets on August 25.
