The once secret world of the sneaker collector has exploded into popular culture, with a whole army of fans hungry for the rarest shoes, the latest designs or reissued classics in a never-ending myriad of color and materials. Sneaker fashion has evolved to the status level of couture. The exclusivity, craftsmanship and design in women’s haute couture has translated into the male sneaker world. This has spawned a renaissance of creativity, collaboration and demand. Bragging rights to be the first or only person in your circle to have the latest exclusive shoe comes at a cost.
My girlfriend has her Manolo Blahnik shoes. I have my Alife sneakers. Our habits are closer than we think.