Nike and The Cut magazine hosted an amazing set of events for New York Fashion Week called the “Beyond The Court” series. Attending shows and events like these during NYFW is like going to the Superbowl of fashion. For this being my first NYFW event I was truly blown away by the talent, art, and creatives. Plus, I had the opportunity of hearing Serena Williams speak during a panel discussion.
Several of the workshops and panels were held at The Shed, a state-of-the-art artistic venue located on the lower westside of Manhattan. Walking in I came across this exhibition showcasing some of Serena Williams’s most iconic tournament outfits over the years. Plus, emerging minority designers were able to show their remixed versions of her outfits, which was amazing. I was so impressed by the different materials used, the silhouettes, and how the designers played with volume.
Serena Williams Panel Discussion
For the first look, I liked how designer Tia Adeola, used a teal and dark blue colorway, added a flared skirt, and played with space using the elongated beads. In the second look, I liked how designers Everard Best and Tela D’amore owners of the brand Who Decides War, played with volume on the cascading, ruffled-leg pant along with a fierce upper body top made from different fabrics. For the final look, I liked how designer Raul Lopez owner of the brand Luar, divided the silhouette making one side look like a bodysuit and then cutting the other side with a skirt showcasing some leg. These designers did a great job making a more editorial Nike look.
Emerging Designers and Discussion
After seeing the different outfits, I had the chance of hearing one of the greatest tennis players of all time Serena Williams speak. She talked about the time she dedicates to practicing her craft and what it was like playing her last match in New York. Serena spoke about what it takes to be successful and how it doesn’t happen overnight. One line that resonated with me was when she said “it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert in your field”.
Serena also talked about the process when it came to collaborating with Nike on her different match outfits. She explained that she would bring different ideas to the design team and they would work to bring her vision to life. Now, Serena has her own fashion line S by Serena which is teaming up with Nike to create an apprenticeship program for emerging designers. Plus, Nike headquarters has dedicated a building in her honor for her contributions to sports and their brand. The words of wisdom and encouragement she gave during the discussion were truly inspiring.
Nike x Jacquemus Collaboration
During the “Beyond The Court” series Nike had an installation of their collaboration with contemporary designer brand Jacquemus. The capsule collection consisted of lightweight, breathable activewear outfits. Many looks were minimalistic with a muted color palette of dark blues, beiges, creams, and whites. For this collaboration, they focused on detail with straps running across the midriff portraying the iconic Nike swoosh hardware. The silhouettes are more simplistic and accentuate the fit of your body.
Different styles such as dresses, one-piece bodysuits, and skirts were included in this collection. French designer, Simon Porte Jacquemus brings this french flair to activewear that’s sporty but feminine. The fabrics used have a soft, stretchy texture to them. It’s a great blend between comfortability and athleisure for a versatile wardrobe.
The Capsule Collection
Although the ready-to-wear is good the real stars of the collection are the “Humara” sneakers. These sneakers now come in 3 different colorways hot pink, chocolate brown, and white beige. I like the chunkier midsole with the thicker laces and some suede fabrication. Also, Nike gave great attention to detail adding small gold hardware on the side, etching the Jacquemus name on the back, and adding ridges to the bottom sole.
The Nike x Jacquemus collection was well thought out and portrays minimalistic styles that are good for capsule wardrobes. If you need more basics to add to your closet then this collaboration provides that where you can get multiple wears from these looks and pair them with other pieces.
The Nike NYFW “Beyond The Court” series was such a memorable event for me and gave me a deeper dive into their world. I can’t wait to attend future events from Nike and look forward to seeing what other innovative products and launches the brand has in store.
