Update: After a Nicole McLaughlin-designed PUMA Suede was teased as part of a PUMA showroom back in January, the designer herself has taken to her Instagram for an “official” unveiling. Dubbed the “Sweep the Factory Floor,” the Nicole McLaughlin x PUMA Suede features a patchwork-style multicolor upper with bold stitching across its seams and what appears to be a detachable tongue pouch. One of the photos that McLaughlin posted shows a trio of pairs, each with totally different patchwork colorblocking, which, alongside the product’s name plus McLaughlin’s penchant for upcycling and using surplus materials, indicate that each pair will feature a unique construction and may very well be made of excess fabric to reduce its material footprint.
A release date and pricing information have yet to be revealed, but look for more info to surface soon.
Original Story: Nicole McLaughlin — who we crowned the Queen of Mocs last year in an exclusive interview — is on a tear through the footwear industry as she collaborates with everyone from HOKA to Merrell. The designer, known best for her viral DIY designs, is looking to keep at it in the new year as she reunites with PUMA for a patchwork-covered take on the German sportswear brand’s Suede silhouette. Previously, the two partnered up for various upcycled designs using PUMA samples and deadstock materials.
Now, with the PUMA Suede, McLaughlin offers a fresh take on the silhouette that begins with its patchwork upper. Various colors collide throughout, including across the Suede’s signature Formstrip. While our preview of the sneaker is very limited, this pattern continues at the lace cover, which seems to feature a pouch — a fitting detail for McLaughlin given her tendency to add utility to her designs. Typical PUMA branding is visible at the tongue and lateral while a white stitched sole unit completes the initial look.
At the time of writing, no release details regarding the Nicole McLaughlin x PUMA Suede has been revealed by either party. Stay tuned for updates, including a complete visual breakdown of the sneaker, in the months to come as it should touch down on shelves later this year via PUMA and select retailers.
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