Words by Community member @ellesneaks
Tell us a bit about yourself.
What’s good my peoples, my name’s Lynnie – I go by @ellesneaks on Instagram. I have a deep passion for sneakers, music, presenting, fashion and photography, overall, I just love being creative. Currently, I work at Crep Protect, where I hold the role of Global Activations and my responsibilities involve curating and organising events.
You’re known for your love for Air Jordan’s tell us more, when did it start?
My love for Air Jordan’s started back in the late 90s early 00s. Every Friday, my siblings and I would spend the weekend at my grandpa’s house, and my uncle had an incredible sneaker collection. Being a basketball player, he had a wide range of sneakers, including Air Jordan 1s, Nike Uptempos, Converses, and many more. Seeing those iconic Nike Swooshes, the sleek silhouette, the hi-top style, and the incredible colourways just captivated me. It might sound crazy, but I wanted to embody the spirit of those shoes. They became more than just footwear to me; they represented a unique blend of style, athleticism, ad self-expression that deeply resonated with me.
We know you’ve got many AJ1 retros in your collection but tell us about the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT silhouette, where did you first encounter a pair and what attracted you to it?
My personal connection with the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT silhouette began when Nike introduces the updated concept of the ‘Comfort’ in 2020. I started seeing this technology incorporated into various AJ1 releases. To be honest, not many of them really caught my attention until the ‘Aleali May Califa’ edition surfaced. Perhaps I’m biased because I strongly support women conquering a male-dominated industry. Unfortunately, I took an L on that release and didn’t win any raffles. It’s all part of the game, and I don’t always win everything, haha. However, I do own a pair of the Teyana Taylor’s Rose in Harlem, which is the only Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT in my collection. I guess everything happens for a reason.
What are your thoughts on music artist and their brands collaborating with sneaker brand and what impact does this have on the community.
I believe it’s incredibly important for music artists to collaborate with sneaker brands. Music artists have the ability to express themselves through their music, which we admire and appreciate. However, I find it even more exciting when they can extend that expression into streetwear and sneakers. There’s something special about seeing an artist’s creativity translated onto a pair of shoes. With music, we hear the lyrics and melodies, but with sneakers we witness expression through colourways, lace choices, accents, tongues, soles, midsoles, and every part of the shoe. Each element becomes a canvas for literal art. I truly applaud these collabs because they allow artists to showcase their unique style and personality in a tangible and wearable form.
I think it has a significant impact on the community. It creates excitement and anticipation among sneaker enthusiasts and fans of the artists. These collabs bridge the gap between music, fashion, and streetwear, inspiring individuals to express themselves through their clothing and footwear choices. Limited releases and exclusive designs drive demand and a sense of exclusivity, fostering a thriving sneaker and streetwear culture.
I believe these partnerships go beyond products, influencing fashion trends, encouraging self-expression, and building a sense of community and excitement among individuals who share a passion for music and sneakers.
We heard that you’re a big fan of Teyana Taylor and that her music, fashion, and style have greatly influenced you. What makes her so admirable to you?
Throughout my life, my love for sports, especially football, defined my style. Tracksuits and sneakers became my go-to attire, and I felt most comfortable in them. However, this did set me apart from the other girls at school who typically dressed differently on mufti days. I soon stumbled upon the term “tomboy,” which I disliked for a long time. I just knew from jump I had a cool and unique style. Labels didn't matter to me; what mattered was feeling like myself. (Last line was mad corny and cliche but true).
When it came to finding role models who represented my style, options were limited in person. My source would be music videos on MTV; TLC, Missy Elliot, Eve and Aaliyah became my inspirations. Then, one fateful day, while watching Sweet 16, Teyana Taylor’s episode aired, and an instant connection was forged. I believe her episode in 2007/2008 so I was around 13/14. Her bold style and unapologetic confidence resonated with me profoundly. It was a long-awaited moment of feeling understood. Excitedly, I showed my brothers, eagerly waiting for them to acknowledge the resemblance. From that day forward, I closely followed Teyana’s journey.
Before Teyana’s fame skyrocketed with Kanye West’s ‘FADE’ music video, I had already recognised her immense talent and unique style. Seeing her finally receive the recognition she deserved filled me with joy.
I’m immensely grateful that figures like Teyana, alongside the legendary artists I mentioned earlier, served as beacons of inspiration, reminding me to stay true to myself through street style.
How did it feel to meet your role model in person?
The day I had the opportunity to meet Teyana Taylor was a dream come true. Anticipation kept me up all night, no lie, I could not sleep! and when the moment arrived, she exceeded every expectation. Genuine, lovely, and sweet, she exuded the same confidence and style that drew me to her in the first place. Meeting her was an incredible experience, and I couldn’t help but admire her even more. It was a chance to express my gratitude and offer my sincere appreciation for being my role model throughout life. She still is.
As I gave her her flowers of admiration, I could hardly believe that I was standing before her, life is crazy man. Never would I have imagined. Meeting Teyana has definitely left an indelible mark on my memory.
Looking back on my journey, Teyana Taylor, played a pivotal role in shaping my identity. Her influence and unapologetic self-expression taught me the importance of staying true to who I am, and that is not just through fashion.
Also, as a businesswoman, her professionalism, her endless talents, and work ethic, has allowed me to open avenues to other domains in the creative industry and not just be stuck in one box. I’m just super thankful and humble that I had the chance to express my appreciation to Teyana in person.
In a world where representation is crucial, Teyana Taylor remains an enduring symbol of authenticity, individuality, and unyielding confidence. She has been an inspiration to me and countless others, proving that embracing one's unique style is not only empowering but also a statement of self-acceptance.
We recently saw that you were lucky enough to receive an early pair from Teyana Taylor herself! What’s your thoughts on her collaboration with Jordan brand for the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT 2 ‘Rose from Harlem’?
No lie, it’s truly remarkable. It’s funny, when she came to the store, I told her “Look, I’ve seen you wearing a pair of 1s that I’ve never seen before, and they’re definitively not customs, so what’s up?” She looked at me, pulled out her phone and began showing me all the pictures of the sample pairs and what she wanted to rectify, it was a dope moment.
Teyana’s creative touch and unique sense of style shine through this collaboration. The fusions of the iconic Air Jordan 1 silhouette with the Zoom CMFT technology results in a sneaker that not only looks dope but also provides exceptional comfort. The attention to details in the design is evident with intricate colour blocking and premium materials that reflect Teyana Taylor’s artistic vision.
The story and intricate design elements make this collaboration irresistible, embodying the passion and creativity of Teyana.
There’s so much to unpack with the collab. The Rose in Harlem AJ1 ZOOM CMFT 2 comes with a special shoebox, inscribed with “out of the concrete, grew a rose,” which not only pays tribute to Tupac Shakur’s album, “Rose That Grew from Concrete.” But also, a nod to her hit song ‘Rose in Harlem’ off the album K.T.S.E.
The distinct left and right shoes, featuring a black Nike Swoosh with zig-zag stitching; I could be wrong, but I personally feel the stitching interprets as homage to Virgil Abloh's design language, which for me further enhances the significance of this collaboration. I LOVE the gold-plated rose and her initials attached to the laces; it adds a perfect touch.
What is the importance of women designers and collaborators contributing to the Jordan brand?
The importance of women designers and collaborators in the Jordan brand cannot be overstated. They bring fresh perspectives, diverse aesthetics, and inspire future generations. By breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity, their collaborations enhance the brand’s identity and foster a more balances and equitable sneaker community.
How have women in the sneaker community responded to the previous Jordan collaborations with these women designers?
Women in the sneaker community have responded enthusiastically to the previous Jordan collaborations with women designers. These collaborations have been met with immense support and excitement as they celebrate representation and diversity within the industry. Women have embraced the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the designs, narratives, and creative vision behind these sneakers. These collaborations have empowered women with a sense of validation, and unity among female sneaker enthusiasts.
What would you love to see next from Teyana Taylor x Jordan and what would that collaboration look like?
As a fan, I would love to see Teyana Taylor and Jordan continue their collaboration with another unique and boundary-pushing sneaker design. I was going to mention an apparel collection, but as I’m currently typing away, I see that Nike have just uploaded a range of accompanying apparel to the SNKRS app. Ultimately, I would anticipate a collaboration that continues to spark conversations, and captures the essence of Teyana Taylor’s artistry, while remaining true to the iconic Jordan brand.
Check out more from Lynnie on Instagram @ellesneaks
The Teyana Taylor x Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT 2 launches on the 1st June.
