SZA Is the New Artistic Director of Vans
“My mission is to show that joy, community, creativity and fashion are all still intersectional.”
SZA can now add the role of “Shoe Designer” to her CV, as she has just been named the new Artistic Director of Vans. In her new role, the artist will work together with Vans to co-create exclusive collections and campaigns that bring her unique vision to the brand.
A five-time Grammy award-winning artist, her recent co-headlined Grand National Tour with Kendrick Lamar also stands as the most successful duo tour in history. Beyond music, she diverts fashion norms through a unique sense of style that challenges cultural expectations and shows unapologetic individuality. With a heavy focus on self-acceptance and authenticity, the artist wants to encourage others to do the same, making her perfect for this new role.
Speaking about the new appointment, SZA shares, “As Artistic Director, my mission is to show that joy, community, creativity and fashion are all still intersectional. I’ve been wearing Knu Skools and other styles for years; they’ve always had an ethos I connect with.”
The debut campaign “is a dreamy ode to expressing vulnerability through self-reflection, art and style,” as stated in a press release. It spotlights one of SZA’s favorite Vans styles, the Knu Skool in Black/White, and was shot by photographer Sophie Jones and styled by Alejandra Hernandez. The shoe was originally designed in 1997 as a reimagining of the Old Skool, but for the ’90s kids. Influenced by skateboarding style, it features a puffed-up tongue, 3D Sidestripe and chunky, oversized laces.
Check out the campaign above and cop the Vans Knu Skool via the Vans website.
In other footwear news, Millie Bobby Brown is the newest Crocs ambassador.
