Designer Matthew M. Williams is the current creative director of Givenchy and founder of streetwear giant 1017 ALYX 9M -- his latest project is highlighted by the TK-360 sneaker model. Williams grew up on Pismo Beach in California and has been a fan of skateboarding culture, basketball, and sneaker culture as well. He talks about his inspiration and how sneakers have been a staple in his identity.
Having released the Givenchy Tk-360 sneaker lately, the designer breached into the realm of footwear. The contemporary shape is made from a singular construction that spotlights a knitted material. He talks to HYPEBEAST about how he got into sneakers, stating that, "I’d say it was sports that got me into sneakers, especially basketball. Growing up I was always a big fan of Michael Jordan and Penny Hardaway. I believe my first pair of kicks were little baby Nike Dunks that my mom got me when I was born in Chicago, and I’ve just always been such a big fan of the brand ever since. In elementary school I remember always wanting to have a fresh pair of sneakers to rock for basketball during recess."
Progressive Footwear Design Mentalities
Matthew M. Williams Talks About the Givenchy TK-360
Trend Themes
1. Singular Construction Sneakers - Designing sneakers with a singular construction and using modern materials can provide a unique product offering for sneaker enthusiasts.
2. Athletic-inspired Footwear - Designing sneakers that are influenced by sports and contain performance materials can create hype among athletes and sneaker enthusiasts.
3. Knitted Materials in Footwear - Using knitted materials in footwear design can provide a comfortable and unique alternative to traditional construction methods.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear - The footwear industry can take advantage of these footwear design trends to create fresh and unique products for their consumers.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry can adapt these trends to create unique and edgy sneaker designs for fashion-forward consumers.
3. Sports - Sports companies can incorporate sophisticated design aesthetics and modern materials into their athletic footwear lineup to attract consumers who value both performance and aesthetics.