Vans has announced a multi-year creative partnership with five-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter SZA. As Vans' Artistic Director, SZA will work closely with the shoes brand to reimagine upcoming campaigns and co-create exclusive product collections that fuse her unique vision with the brand's creative and youthful spirit.
The debut campaign spotlights one of SZA's favorite Vans footwear styles, the Knu Skool in Black/White. The campaign was directed and photographed by Sophie Jones and styled by Alejandra Hernandez.
The Vans Knu Skool, originally designed in 1997, reimagined the classic Old Skool for a new generation in the late '90's. Influenced by skateboarding design, the Knu Skool features modern restyling of the original silhouette and includes a puffed-up tongue and 3D Sidestripe, as well as chunky, oversized laces.
"In Vans, I feel free!" says SZA. "I've been wearing Knu Skools and other styles for years, they've always had an ethos I connect with. As Artistic Director, my mission is to show that joy, community, creativity, and fashion are all still intersectional. That humanity, culture, and connection are still the access points."
"I've learned that bravery and curiosity are the cures for uncertainty, it's a lifestyle and Vans champions that spirit," she adds. "They stand where I stand, and I'm honored to invite a whole bunch of people to stand Off the Wall with us."
The Vans Knu Skool in Black/White is available to shop now across select Vans retail locations and at Vans.com.
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