Going viral across social media for her wild, yet functional designs, Nicole McLaughlin took her experience in the footwear industry and has grown to become her very own brand. These pieces, ranging from upcycled footwear with a DIY aesthetic to furniture and accessories utilizing the same sustainable design language, have become her trademark that has led to collaborations with her former employer Reebok and more. Now, the NYC-based designer is moving over to Vans to create a Slip-On that fuses a gardening belt into its design.
Coming covered in shades of cream and green, the Vans Slip-On gets the upcycled Nicole McLaughlin treatment as its toebox and forefoot feature various pockets ready to host gardening tools. This connection to gardening is expressed directly on the co-branded Vans and Nicole McLaughlin tongue tag with its “Gardening Tote” text and product images that showcase Nicole tending to her garden with various tools right at her feet. Helping keep items stored in the pockets secure is a nylon cord that goes across the forefoot while we also see an added strap on the heel allowing you to attach the sneakers to your bag or backpack. Underfoot sits a white vulcanized rubber midsole paired with a gum rubber outsole. Shortly after the reveal of the "Cream" colorway, a second "Brown" pair has been revealed. The pair maintains the same construction and details, however, earthy brown shades take over the upper with accenting hits of black and grey seen throughout.
The Nicole McLaughlin x Vans Slip-On Gardening Tote Pack is set to release on March 31st, 2023 through Vans and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in men's sizing, retail is set at $105. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans Slip-On VP VR3 LX Gardening Tote "Cream"
Images via Nicole McLaughlin
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans Slip-On VP VR3 LX Gardening Tote "Brown"
Image via Vans
