Vans is experiencing a very hot summer ’16 moment with everyone from Kanye West to NBA players like Nick Young and Russell Westbrook jumping all over the laid back vibe the brand is known for. For Californians, however, Vans is not, nor will it ever be a passing trend. It’s part of the fabric of the culture as expressed through the skate, punk and hiphop scenes it’s long been associated with. For a brand as authentic as Vans, therefore, it only makes sense we check in with Snobette contributor Soleil B, a real-deal L.A. Cali native, for her view on the brand’s best five styles, collaborative or otherwise, over her (young!) lifetime:
Vans x Disney: 2015
While unisex, Vans collaboration with Disney definitely was embraced much more by girls, who loved the featured characters, including Pooh Bear, Mickey Mouse, Alice in Wonderland & of course, your favorite Disney princesses.
Sublime: 2014
Ain’t practice Santeria? Ain’t got no crystal ball? Well it’s highly unlikely you’ve got the extremely rare Sublime Vans either. Vans produced 300 pairs at $300 a pair to celebrate the legendary Long Beach ska punk band. Aside from the musical history, as a lady, what’s cuter than rocking Sk8 His with a smiling sun perfectly printed on them? Hello Sublime sunshine!
Sk8-Hi Iron Maiden: 2007
Yeah, just maybe wearing an over-sized metal band tee may be all the wave this summer, but how killer will the girl with Iron Maiden Vans be in five years? Knowing the difference between good heavy metal & tasteless heavy metal truly separates the real from the weak. This electric twist on the hi-top is a unique run in the Vans series that will live long beyond it’s years.
All Classic Models: 1966 to date
One hasn’t truly lived until they’ve sunk their foot into a pair of classic Vans, whether lace up, popular Sk8 Hi, or the iconic slip on, these shoes are essential part of any California woman’s closet. Not only are they comfortable, they look great with literally ANYTHING you pair them with and epitomize laid back style.
Peek-A-Boo! Cut Out: 2016
Recently released, making a debut only this month – the Vans Cut Out Sk8 Hi’s are one of their most unique runs yet. Featuring a laser cut out of the Ski Hi rendition of the sneaker utilizing the familiar Vans leather material, but carrying a laser cut twist. This unique style of the sneaker is bound to go down in the books.
