Original Story (05/22/20): Versace’s VP of men’s footwear Salehe Bembury has teased a bright orange New Balance collaboration. Bembury has been hinting at a New Balance collaboration since December, but he recently revealed what appears to be official campaign photos for a yet-unnamed New Balance sneaker model.
While the shoe is largely obscured by orange fuzz in the picture, a bluish-silver New Balance logo and a tongue piece branded with Bembury’s name is visible in the middle of the chaos. The playful design language also appears to extend to a textured suede panel and durable mesh construction on the tongue, though little else is visible.
Interestingly, Bembury’s first post hinting at the sneaker last month was geotagged at Bodega Los Angeles, potentially gesturing towards an exclusive release. Additionally, the designer shared pictures of what appeared to be co-branded denim with New Balance back in December. The full details (including pricing and release date) and extent of the collaboration have yet to be confirmed, so make sure to stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for updates.
Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002R
Release Date: October 23, 2020
Price: $150 USD
Update (09/22/20): New Balance has officially announced the Salehe Bembury 2002R.
Designed in two days with the New Balance team, Salehe was inspired by trail materials and colorways which was sparked by his move from New York City to Los Angeles and new-found love for the outdoors. The designer took the classic silhouette and revamped it for his first footwear collaboration under his name brand, allowing him to express his own creative vision.
Salehe chose a lesser-known style from the New Balance archives, and his iteration of the 2002R features a hairy suede, leather, and mesh 2002 upper on a 860v2 sole unit. The orange, yellow, and burgundy color scheme with a shearling ‘N’ logo in sky blue is inspired by the colors of the Antelope Canyon.
The Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002R arrives on October 23rd via newbalance.com for a retail price of $150 USD. Check out the campaign video, imagery and product shots below.
Update (07/15/20): Recording artist John Mayer has been gifted an early pair of the Salehe Bembury x New Balance “Peace Be The Journey” collab, which appears to be a reworking of the New Balance 2002 silhouette. Check out the photos below and stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for release info.
Update (07/02/20): New teaser images have been posted by Salehe Bembury, further revealing his upcoming “Peace Be The Journey” collaborative project with New Balance. Check them out below and stay tuned for a full reveal.
Original Story photos:
