As a follow-up to their successful sell-out collaboration in 2008, Nike and Liberty of London are teaming up once again to release a limited edition Summer 2011 collection of a dozen sneakers covered in prints from the British brand’s archives. The collection features iconic Nike sneaker styles like the Blazer, Skinny Dunk Hi, and Air Force One made over in classic Liberty florals and abstract prints. There’s even a pair of Dunks done in a 40s wartime airplane print for those who are looking for something with more of an industrial edge.
Meg described the appeal of the Nike and Liberty collaboration the last time the companies came together saying, “Part of the draw is the juxtaposition of a very girly print with a more masculine shape.” The collaboration also provides an opportunity for Nike to cater to a more fashion-conscious crowd than its typical demographic.
If reactions in the Fashion Spot forums are any indication, then Nike and Liberty will have another sell-out collection on their hands. Bunburyist affirmed that “this second drop is way better than the first.” Liberty and Nike improved upon the sneakers in this collection by sticking to a more subdued palette that worked much better than the previous round, where clashing prints and colors were sometimes used in the same shoe, creating a somewhat jarring effect.
Elegance.Is.Refusal. is already planning to get a pair, and since she lives in England she’s got easy access. “I like how these are just one print per shoe. I’m actually waiting to see how much I get paid tomorrow and calculate whether I can get my mitts on some,” she wrote.
The collection launches Friday, April 1, exclusively at Liberty in their specially designed Nike section, with new styles being released throughout the month. Starting in May, the shoes will be available in select Office locations and at various other global retailers. The collaboration was available at Opening Ceremony back in 2008, so maybe we can count on them again this time around?
