Posts tagged with "shoes"

REEBOK’S “I3 MOTORSPORTS” CAMPAIGN

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Today, Reebok officially unveils its highly anticipated “Street Sleigh” footwear and apparel collection, championed by moto-inspired takes on the brand’s iconic retro footwear models: the Question Mid and new Classic Leather Legacy. Introducing the brand’s “I3 Motorsports” narrative, which highlights Reebok’s relationship to bike life through the lens of its original rough rider Allen Iverson, the “Street Sleigh” pack is available December 15, 2020 from Reebok.com, Foot Locker, Champs and Finish Line, among other local retailers.

With a history in motorsports sponsorship dating back to the mid-80s and the introduction of its racing-inspired Answer IV and I3 Apparel range in the early 00’s, Reebok – alongside cross-cultural icon Allen Iverson – helped introduce motorsports to the streets at the turn of the century. In fact, Reebok’s vibrant and overbranded I3 Apparel line is often recognized as one of the earliest and most important crossovers between streetwear and sportswear. Today, like most team sports, inner city motorsport or “bike life” is an important subculture in many cities, affording freedom of expression and a sense of community.

To celebrate this important subculture, Reebok released a photo series that documents riders from Atlanta, a prominent, thriving bike life city. The series [HERE] captures the pure freedom of expression, movement, style and prowess of these individuals and their wider community.

Tailored with a contemporary red and black holiday aesthetic nodding Iverson’s heart and style, the Question Mid “Street Sleigh” [imagery HERE] presents a material execution inspired by ATV’s and dirt bikes known for their high-contrast matte and gloss detailing. The Deep Black full-grain leather upper is accented with a patent synthetic toe and a Rich Red randing (mock welt) overlay that flows onto a glossed midsole for a truly eye-catching design. The silhouette effectively underlines the intersection of bike life and basketball in the inner city – two important and often overlapping subcultures in which Reebok remains rooted. Available in adult ($140, G57551), junior (GV7187), preschool (GV7184) and toddler (GV7182) sizing.

Riding alongside Question Mid is the new Classic Leather Legacy [imagery HERE] that puts its own twist on the “Street Sleigh” narrative. With a Rich Red leather upper seated atop a Deep Black rubber outsole and mixing glossy and matte overlays throughout, the Classic Leather Legacy “Street Sleigh” presents a clean and thoughtful symbol of bike life and Reebok heritage. Available in adult ($80, GZ2752) sizing.

“Street Sleigh” will also usher in the introductory release of Reebok’s new “Iverson Apparel” range, showcasing historic images captured by longtime A.I. photographer Gary Land, among other graphic designs. Apparel imagery can be found HERE.

Imagery of the Atlanta photo series, Question Mid and Classic Leather Legacy “Street Sleigh” and new “Iverson Apparel” range can be found HERE.

Finally, to tie a bow around the holiday release, professional basketball player Montrezl Harrell delivers “Street Sleigh” gifts to kids in this animation-style short film, which can be viewed HERE.

Reebok’s “Street Sleigh” footwear and apparel pack is available December 15, 2020 from Reebok.com, Foot Locker, Champs and Finish Line, among other local retailers. Fans can stay tuned for more from “I3 Motorsports” in Spring 2021.

About Reebok

Reebok International Ltd., headquartered in Boston, MA, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of fitness and lifestyle footwear, apparel and equipment. An American-inspired global brand, Reebok is a pioneer in the sporting goods industry with a rich and storied fitness heritage. Reebok develops products, technologies and programming that enable movement so people can fulfill their potential. Reebok connects with the fitness consumer wherever they are and however they choose to stay fit – whether it’s functional training, running, combat training, walking, dance, yoga or aerobics. Reebok Classics leverages the brand’s fitness heritage and represents the roots of the brand in the sports lifestyle market.

For more information, visit Reebok at www.reebok.com, or, for the latest news at http://news.reebok.com/. Discover Reebok at the following locations:https://www.instagram.com/reebok/;http://twitter.com/reebok; and http://youtube.com/reebok.

ATL Street Sleigh Riders via Jorge Sigala for Reebok

Classic Leather Legacy "Street Sleigh" for Reebok

Iverson Apparel Street Sleigh for Reebok

Question Mid "Street Sleigh" for Reebok — Created by MDKGraphicsEngine – Licensed to Adidas Production

The Iconic Men’s Shoes You Will Want to Own Today

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When it comes to shoes, there are some brands that have stood the test of time. Timberland, Nike, Converse and adidas all have iconic kicks that have been gracing our feet for decades.

Here, we give you a run down of the most iconic men’s shoes of all time, which are all still available today.

The Timberland Boots

The first Timberland boots were released in 1973, and they are still a bestseller today. As a boot fit for both work and play, it is the versatility of the Timberland that has kept them in the spotlight.

They are soft and made of quality materials. With a waterproof leather upper and lug rubber outsole, Timberland boots are not only stylish, but they’re also comfortable — and something every man should have in his collection. These boots do come in a few different colors, but the tan hue is at the top of our list. While Timberlands have always been iconic, hip hop artists such as Kanye West have taken them to the next level of cool.

The Nike Air Max Sneakers

When you own a pair of Nike Air Max kicks, they will be so much more than a typical pair of sneakers. First released in 1987, these retro shoes come in just about any color scheme you can imagine. Known for the cushioned base and that “window to the sole,” the brand wanted to show fans the air that was hidden inside. The idea to pump up the sole with air originally came from Frank Rudy, an aeronautical engineer who had experience with NASA.

Each season we see small changes to the Nike Air Max range, but they still have that ’80s bounce we all know and love.

The Converse Chuck Taylors

Another shoe that is rich in history is the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars. These basketball babes were first invented in 1917, but Chuck Taylor wasn’t completely satisfied with the design.

He asked for more support in 1922, and they have been an icon ever since. Converse shoes come in different cuts, but we really can’t go past the high tops. They can be worn with any outfit, and really do scream retro fashion. Whether it is black, white or red, it’s that star that will keep these legends popular well into the future.

The Adidas Originals Superstar

Another shoe that we have been coveting for 50 years is the Adidas Originals Superstar. Its rubber shell toe cap and flexibility made it a direct competitor against Converse in the basketball market.

Adidas is a pop culture favorite, and while the Superstar may have started as a basketball shoe, it now has its place on the street. The 80s’ hip hop scene helped propel this shoe into the spotlight, as Run DMC proudly wore the three stripes.

An Iconic Shoe Is a Must-Have

Shoes aren’t just for working and running, they can be the finishing touch to your look. Some shoes are made to be worn for life, and a pair of Timberlands, Nike Airs, Adidas Originals or Converse Chuck Taylor’s have long-term appeal.

No matter what the season or the occasion, these iconic shoes will be there to make a statement. Plus, they are all made with comfort and support in mind.

Donovan Mitchell, BODYARMOR x adidas

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Donovan Mitchell is fresh off a five-year, $195 million extension with the Utah Jazz, and now he’s dropping some fresh, new kicks.

The star guard teamed up with BODYARMOR for a collaboration with adidas to create a limited edition version of his D.O.N. Issue #2 sneaker called the adidas D.O.N. Issue #2 x BODYARMOR.

The shoe features a brand new colorway inspired by Mitchell’s favorite BODYARMOR flavor, Tropical Punch.

D.O.N., which stands for “Determination Over Negativity,” is representative of Mitchell’s mindset both on and off the court.

The new shoe features the BOUNCE midsole, which enhances comfort and stability. It is also a higher heel counter, which provides even more containment and support. A webbed lacing system and the soft, breathable mesh upper provide even more lateral support.

The D.O.N. Issue #2 x BODYARMOR will not be available for purchase. Rather, it is available to fans and consumers nationwide through giveaways on BODYARMOR social platforms beginning Tuesday.

There will be just 100 pairs, so those who can get their hands on the shoes will be the envy of sneaker collectors everywhere.

Mitchell was first announced a partner and investor with BODYARMOR Sports Drink in Jan. 2018. He was another premier name added to a list of athlete partners that includes James Harden, Trae Young, Megan Rapinoe, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Kemba Walker, Dustin Johnson, Naomi Osaka, Mike Trout and more.

Mitchell took the league by storm in the 2017-2018 season. He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 13th overall pick in the 2017 draft and was traded to the Utah Jazz the same night.

He won the 2018 Slam Dunk Contest and was named an All-Star during the 2019-2020 season. Through the first three seasons of his career, he is averaging 22.7 points per game, 4.1 rebounds per game and 4 assists per game.

BODYARMOR is now the No. 2 sports drink sold nationwide.

For more information about BODYARMOR, you can click right here. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

You can also follow Donovan Mitchell on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Tips For Supporting Ethical Fashion

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There is no time like right now to make the switch to ethical fashion, with the report Future of Consumer Demand showing that the vast majority of Americans place a high importance on buying goods that are ethically produced. When it comes to fashion, the exact definition of ‘ethics’ is difficult to provide, since it extends to a wide array of issues – including fair working conditions, sustainability, support for upcoming creators, animal welfare, and fair trade. A recent Futerra survey showed that around 90% of consumers in the U.S. and the U.K. want to make a positive difference with each purchase they make. They feel that their actions can be part of a big wave that reduces pressing problems such as global warming. If you are ready to start supporting companies that are ‘giving back’, what qualities should you look for in your chosen brands?

Ethical Working Conditions

If you are drafting a list of fashion and accessory companies you would like to start supporting, spend time getting to know their policy on working conditions. For instance, if you are buying luxury gems such as diamonds, ensuring they are conflict-free and ethically sourced is key. More than 99% of accessible diamonds meet Kimberley certificate standards. However, this certificate is a logistic document that states a rough diamond was exported from a specific country under the stipulations of the Kimberley process. It does not tell you if the mine a specific diamond was obtained from provides local jobs or funds opportunities for diverse groups such as women. Therefore, inquiring about these matters can help you make a decision when considering various brands or jewelry houses.

A Passion For Sustainability
It is very easy to see which brands are 100% committed to lowering their carbon footprint. Truly green brands such as Stella McCartney have been raising the bar in terms of the use of organic, recycled and upcycled materials practically since their launch. Brands should do more than release the odd sustainable collection. They should have published policies regarding energy use, water saving, ethical sourcing of materials (i.e. materials should not hail from endangered forests), and the establishment of strict quality and sustainability standards. They should also commit to reducing oil-based synthetics during the manufacturing process.

Supporting Innovation

Check out the efforts made by each brand to support the Planet. Some have come up with innovative ways to put an end to problems such as plastics. Pangaia, famed for its über-chic tracksuits, use material obtained from recycled bottles. The fabric obtained is then colored with natural botanical dyes, and ‘freshened up’ with natural peppermint, which battles bacteria. Reformation (which manufactures swimwear) also creates items made with recycled plastic, while Isbjörn of Sweden uses fish trap to create resilient items that are also 100% PFC-free and bluesign certified.

Design For Life

Ethical fashion should also aim to be used by several owners so as to prolong the life cycle of every item and reduce the amount of waste that is overburdening landfills. Essén is one such label; it produces all collections in small batches, moving away from the idea of short-term trends and seasonality. The aim is for every single item to be used throughout the year, with minimalist looks holding sway in the summer and layering being embraced to stay warm and cosy during the winter. Another interesting minimalist brand is Working Title. In order to reduce its carbon footprint, this company only sells made-to-order items, meaning that every single outfit they make is fully desired and cherished. When purchasing items for a new season, go with items you think will stand the test of time. Ensure you have wardrobe essentials such as a ‘little black dress’, a white tailored top, black trousers, and a good coat you can dress up or down. You can still stay in trend, buying a couple of ‘in’ clothing items and accessories but mainly sticking to items you know will look good just as good next year as they do this year.

Choosing Durable Items

Genuinely sustainable items should be able to withstand plenty of wear and tear if it is to stand the test of time and be worn a lifetime or passed down to various users before being thrown away. Isbjörn, mentioned above owing to its innovative spirit, also has a big focus on durability. All items are made with materials built to last, and have sewn-in labels with space for three kids’ names (the aim being that every piece should be used by at least three people). The company goes a step further, offering to replace any items that are broken. Why buy a new coat when your favorite comfy coat can be repaired and look as good as new? Companies should ideally offer customers tips to increase the lifespan of clothing. These can include information on how to repair and wash items. They can also include suggestions on where to donate clothes once customers are done with them. The brand Vaude, for instance, has a free online platform called iFixit, which provides instructions on how to fix various products.

Embracing Diversity

Sustainable companies that truly desire to make a difference should take other ethical considerations into account, one of which involves embracing diversity. The 21st century is arguably the first to embrace different races, body types, and ages in advertising and fashion. Brands should do more than simply market themselves as ethical; they should also put their money where their mouth is, releasing collections in sizes that reflect the diversity of their customer base. Just a few brands that have already done so include Adidas, Apiece Apart, and Diane von Furstenberg. The latter’s iconic wrap dresses are now available in sizes 14 to 24, thanks to its recent partnership with Honoré.

If you are ready to make more eco-conscious fashion choices, a good place to start is by checking out the sustainability policies of your favorite brands. Those that do value ethical working conditions, the environment, and other issues such as animal welfare, will usually share their values with you via their website and social media channels. Be vigilant about shopping for jewelry as well, since truly ethically sourced diamonds have more to them than simply complying with the Kimberley certificate standards. When choosing a brand to support, also think about the extent to which they are truly making an effort to effect change. Efforts can range from choosing innovative materials right through to improving durability and educating customers on how to increase a product’s lifespan. Finally, this millennium is one that is firmly focused on diversity. Ethical companies should support the idea that all human beings have a right to look and feel like their best selves through the clothes they wear. Companies can show their commitment to diversity by employing models with varying ages, races, and body types. They can also make collections in various sizes so that their garments can be worn by a truly representative group of people. One of the best ways to find out more about fashion brands is to check out their websites. If they are truly serious about sustainability and ethics, they will most likely have a sustainability section in which they list the many steps they are taking to change the superficial reputation that fashion can sometimes have.

The Legend Edit

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By Althea Champion × Armon Hayes

“Giving the perfect gift is about finding something amazing and the element of surprise” — John Legend

Tonight, John Legend will perform at Sperry’s exclusive holiday concert for the press, influencers, and Sperry partners worldwide on Zoom.

“John Legend, multi-platinum artist and Sperry’s 2020 Global Brand Ambassador, shares his holiday footwear favorites for him, her, and the littles,” reads the collection’s website. From a refined, rainy day must-have to a cool classic weekend boot, winter weather doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style.

Take a look at The Legend Edit to see what he’s sporting – and gifting – this season. The concert will announce the launch of the new Sperry Legend Holiday Edit—a curation of Legend’s favorite Sperry shoes for the entire family.

Legend curated his favorite Sperry boat shoes, boots, and sneakers, and they will feature in the collection that is launching Nov. 4. It will be exclusively available on Sperry.com. The Sperry Legend Holiday Edit shoes are iconic and reflect Legend’s personal style—impeccably classic, with a hint of an edge.

“Simple, stylish, and suede… a great weekend boot,” says Legend about the new Men’s Bahama Storm Boot.

The collection is full of modern classics that promise warmth and style, a safe bank, and great gift opportunities for men, women, and children, assured to satisfy everyone on your list.

John Legend
American singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, film producer, theatre director, and philanthropist, Legend has had much success. He has made six albums, the most recent of which, Bigger Love, was released this year and features Jhene Aiko, Koffee, Rapsody, and Gary Clark Jr.

Twitter | Instagram | Website

Sperry
“Sperry is the story of an iconic American brand. Fashion and sustainability has been rooted within the brand since 1934, when Paul Sperry fell off the deck of his sailboat,” our Armon Hayes wrote of the brand. “He set out to design a non-slip boat shoe, which led to the birth of an array of styles that would accommodate lifestyles and seasons to come. For men, women, and children, he inspired everyone to find common ground.”

Twitter | Instagram | Website

PUMA Clyde All-Pro

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PUMA announced the newest addition to the Clyde Franchise Monday with its brand new Clyde All-Pro, a basketball silhouette taking style and performance to the next level.

The Clyde Franchise is inspired by shoes worn by Walt “Clyde” Frazier on the basketball court in the 1970s but with a twist: they have all of the technology and performance of today.

The shoe is perfect for on-court training and has ProFoam+ for stability and cushioning. It also uses Matryx material, which is lightweight and durable, for support.

Three styles will be available throughout November.

First is the Clyde All-Pro, which comes in two colorways, PUMA White-Blue Atoll and PUMA White-PUMA Black. It has a Pebax drop in the heel with a ProFoam+ midsole and a Matryx engineered knit providing enhanced stability, breathability and support. It will retail for $130 and will be available on PUMA’s website, PUMA’s NYC Store and select retailers Nov. 11.

Next, the Clyde All-Pro Elf, a colorway that lets you wear a classic Christmas movie on your feet. Between the iconic colors of the film and the maple syrup, spaghetti and elf hat on the heels, the movie is brought to the life and the pavement. The collaboration will cross over to other PUMA products, including footwear and apparel. The Clyde All-Pro Elf will start at $130 and will be available at Dick’s Sporting Goods, PUMA’s website and at the PUMA NYC store beginning Nov. 19.

Finally, the Clyde All-Pro Kuzma Mid is designed by Kyle Kuzma and Rhuigi Villaseñor, the founder of Rhude. It combines vintage-inspired colors and performance tooling. The shoe can be used on the streets or the courts and have Kuzma’s logo in the sock liner. It will retail for $150 and will be available Nov. 27 on PUMA’s website, the PUMA NYC Store, at select retailers and during Foot Locker’s “12 Days of Greatness.”

For more information, you can click right here.

LaMelo Ball Joins PUMA

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By Justin Lyons

LaMelo Ball, top 2020 NBA Draft prospect and younger brother of New Orleans Pelicans point guard Lonzo Ball, signed with the sports company PUMA for a long-term sponsorship deal.

Ball said he’s excited to join the PUMA family as he kicks off his basketball career.

“I believe the brand is the perfect partner for me because PUMA will allow me to just be myself. I want to be 100-percent authentic whether that’s playing basketball or showing off my personal style, and that’s what I want to do with PUMA,” Ball said.

The 6-foot-7-inch guard with elite passing skills opted out of college basketball in favor of professional contracts in Lithuania and Australia.

Adam Petrick, the global director of brand and marketing at PUMA, said Ball is a natural fit for PUMA because of his personal style and his “physical gifts and dynamic play on the court.”

“We are thrilled to add him to our roster of talented athletes, and at just 19 years old, we can’t wait to see his impact on the broader culture surrounding basketball,” Petrick said.

The first collaboration between the young phenom and PUMA will come in the form of a PUMA x LaMelo Ball T-shirt and hoodie set. The set will release Nov. 18, the same day as the 2020 NBA Draft where Ball is expected to go in the top five.

PUMA also intends to blur lines between sports, culture, music and fashion with its approach to the collaboration with Ball, which will likely be seen in the form of shirts, shoes and other apparel.

The partnership will follow PUMA’s “Not From Here” concept, something Ball cooked up himself to represent his unique attitude.

“I don’t know what normal is. I personally chose a different path to achieve my success because that defines who I am,” Ball said. “I know some people think I am mysterious or ‘not from here,’ and I might have to agree. I am someone who likes to be different and consider myself to be one of one. That’s the message I want to share in my upcoming projects with PUMA.”

Ball and PUMA will also join forces to host basketball camps, clothing donations, court refurbishments and more to support programs that encourage young athletes stay active.

With names like RJ Barrett, Kyle Kuzma and Deandre Ayton highlighting the list, Ball is the latest in a line of young talent to join PUMA.

In Ball’s 2019-2020 season as a member of the Illawarra Hawks, he played just 12 games before injuring himself during practice and deciding to leave for the NBA Draft. He averaged 17 points, 6.8 assists and 7.6 rebounds per game.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft after winning the NBA Draft Lottery. The Timberwolves had a 14% chance at landing the first pick, tied for the best odds with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors, the team holding the worst record in the league.

With the Timberwolves trading for star guard D’Angelo Russell last season, mock drafts appear to have Minnesota targeting Anthony Edwards, the wing player out of Georgia.

Without a consensus first pick, there is also speculation that Minnesota could trade out of the first pick, opening an opportunity for a team looking for a point guard with passing abilities like Ball’s.

It all remains to be seen the night of the Draft Nov. 18, where one thing is for sure: LaMelo Ball’s name will be called.

Toyota Corolla Apex

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By Althea Champion × Vaughn Lowery

TMNA is releasing a new and updated version of the faithful Toyota Corolla in 2021: the limited edition Corolla Apex Edition. The company will manufacture only 6,000 editions of the SE and XSE editions.

As a bonus, Puma and Toyota collaborated on a limited edition Corolla Apex sneaker that corresponds with the car’s launch. Only 50 units were fabricated – we got number 25! They perfectly match the vehicle and they came just in time as we celebrated the Los Angeles Lakers Championship win, honking and flickering our lights in Downtown LA near the Staples Center. Just like LeBron during the NBA playoffs, this compact car was the star attraction. After all, it is one of the top selling cars in the world.

Model

This new model has the same horsepower as its predecessor, same TNGA-C platform, but is nearly unrecognizable in its new form.

Most of the editions will be equipped with the Dynamic Shift CVT, otherwise known as a continuously variable transmission, and colloquially known as an automatic. For those who love driving stick, Toyota is also offering just 120 models based on the SE edition that are equipped with a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission.

Style

This car leans into sportiness that has never been characteristic of a Corolla, yet does so gracefully. The new model rides lower to the ground, flaunts bronze accents, a front spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings, a rear diffuser aid in high-speed vehicle stability, and an optional rear trunk aero spoiler for those who wish it theirs.

Chrome exhaust tips accent the vehicle and black mirror caps give it an edge. Low profile, black, 18-inch wheels that are lighter than Corolla’s standard and unique to the Apex, according to Anthony Alaniz of Motor1, add to its humble discretion. LED headlights, turn signals, and taillights make sure you are safe, while the smoked-out light lenses of the taillights add to its undeniable dominance, and a large sunroof is an added bonus, especially on lazy summer nights.

The SE model is attired in premium fabric upholstery, while the XSE edition sports black SofTex®-trimmed fabric upholstery, heated front seats, and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support.

Power

This Corolla is powered by its 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine, which obtains its power from high-compression Toyota D4-S fuel injection system (13:1), according to Toyota’s press release. The VVT-i on the exhausts uses an electric motor instead of oil, making for a more eco-friendly and efficient exhaust.

The limited edition model has a 169 peak horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,800 rpm, which is standard in previous Toyota models.

With the automatic transmission in the SE model, the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 31 city / 41 highway / 34 combined MPG, and the XSE’s is 31/38/34, respectively. With the manual transmission, the fuel economy is 29/36/32 MPG.

Safety

Toyota also took the model one step further in safety. The Apex Edition, along with all 2021 Corolla models, will have Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist technologies, standard. This includes a pre-collision system with daytime/low-light vehicle and pedestrian detection, plus daytime bicycle detection, full-speed range dynamic cruise control (CVT only), lane departure alert with steering assist and road edge detection, automatic high beams, lane tracing and road sign assist.

In addition, rear side airbags were added to the design, bringing the total number of airbags in the vehicle up to 10. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with a Blind Spot Monitor is now standard on XSE models, and optional for SE models with CVT. In addition, all 2020 Corollas gain an Automatic Engine Shut-Off. This add-on will automatically turn off the engine after a designated period in the event it is left running.

As a special value, Toyota’s press release notes that, “the 2021 Corolla LE grade (gas model) will offer a new Convenience Package that combines Blind Spot Monitor, Smart Key system and 16-inch alloy wheels.”

Technology

The new Corolla Apex Edition sports new Android Auto compatibility, which complements the Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa potential connections already standard in this model’s predecessor, the 2020 Corolla. In addition, SiriusXM and its 3-month trial period is now available across every Corolla model.

Furthermore, the vehicle is endowed with a more efficient cooling system; the two-discharge-port oil pump and variable cooling system with an electric water pump maximizes engine engine performance and efficiency. This ensures quicker cabin heating on cold days and quicker cool-down when the A/C is on. When combined with ultra-low internal friction, the 2.0-liter engine operates at a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 percent, which is among the highest for a current passenger vehicle, according to Toyota.

Pricing

The least expensive edition of the Corolla Apex, the Corolla Apex SE with a CVT, is $2,695 more than its predecessor, which brings it to $25,070. The Corolla Apex SE with a six-speed manual transmission clocks in at $25,460, and the Corolla Apex XSE at $28,210.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the new model’s suspension and fresh look are most noteworthy. New coil springs with internal rebound shocks allowed designers to lower the suspension 0.6 inches. This, combined with rigid, stabilizer bars, creates a stiffer suspension. Roll stiffness is now 47% more stiff in the front and 33% more in the rear—a marked improvement. And, its look undeniably transforms any preconceived notions about the Toyota Corolla, as it seems to have evolved into a chic sports car.

If you are looking to surprise your significant other with a luxurious present, look no further. If you are a young professional looking to impress your colleagues in the parking lot, you have come to the right vehicle. If you are a new parent concerned with style, safety, and reliability, this is your car. Whoever you are, the Toyota Corolla Apex can be the ideal vehicle for you.

BEYONCÉ x ADIDAS

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By Payton Saso

Beyoncé first collaborated adidas with her launch of Ivy Park. Now, the singer is back with a new collaboration. On September 18 the Beyoncé x adidas Superstar Platform will be released and available to purchase through the adidas App.

This shoe is a reinterpretation of the adidas Superstar, “however, the tooling begins to sculpt to a platform shape, bearing in tow an aggressive, near brutalist aesthetic. The midsole, though partly left untouched, quickly begins to protrude out, extending from all sides as it does in height,” Sneaker News described.

The adidas website describes the launch as “The meeting of two icons: Beyoncé lends her elegance and perspective to the iconic silhouette for the 50th anniversary of the Superstar.”

Teen Vogue recapped the history of Ivy Park, stating that the brand, “relaunched just last April with adidas where they would be collaborating, but also Beyoncé would be designing her own sportswear apparel and footwear for the brand, which includes the classic sneakers.”

This remake of the Superstar is the first of its kind by reshaping the shoe and adding a platform. This isn’t the first time Beyoncé has repurposed the classic adidas style to brand them with her Ivy Park line. Earlier this year, she launched four shoes with the brand. “All showcasing the collection’s bold styling, and incorporating utilitarian details,” adidas announced, and adding never seen before colors to the brand.

The sneakers, however, were reportedly leaked prior to their original release date but this doesn’t seem to be bothering Queen Bey too much as she was seen enjoying a vacation in Croatia on a $2 million a week yacht.

While the Ivy Park name already holds its own in the fashion industry and pop culture, collaborating with adidas is its newest mark in the industry. The brand first launched in 2016 and was cofounded with TOPSHOP founder, Sir Philip Green, but Beyoncé is now the sole owner after Green faced sexual harassment allegations in 2018, according to BBC.

The singer originally alluded to her collaboration in the January issue of ELLE Canadae, which 360 Magazine covered. With new magazine covers, movies, music and fashion, this year has been busy for Queen Bey.

The singer released a visual album, “Black is King” earlier this year which was a revival of “The Lion King.” Beyoncé was also recently enlisted by the United Nations, along with other celebs, “a film promoting actions to tackle the world’s biggest issues from the COVID-19 pandemic to poverty and inequality” according to USA Today.

It is no surprise to her fans that the singer is staying booked and busy, and are anticipating her latest drop with adidas.

The shoe’s which drop today, September 18 on the adidas app, cost $200 US dollars. Through the app customers can purchase the shoe, or enter a giveaway which closes on the drop date to win themselves a pair of the exclusive sneaker.

Spring Style of Vivienne Hu

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The Vivienne Hu Spring/Summer 2021 collection perfectly captures all the best parts of spring fashion, while staying both classic and modern. The line consists of 50 pieces that channel both comfort and elegance. With clear influence from European design and New York business clothing, the line had a lot of femininity and beauty.

The collection features pastel colors to go along with the true nature of classic spring shades. With hues of light blue, pink and green, the colors perfectly resemble blooming flowers and the escape of a bleak winter. The pastels were subtle enough not to scream Easter, but are still the perfect colors for escaping a chilly winter. A few black pieces stood out in the collection in contrast to the generally light colors of the line. Although different then the other light and muted tones, black does not channel the energy of spring. However, black is a classic color and is always in style, no matter the season.

The Spring/Summer 2021 designs are all about details with fewer bold pieces focused on the fit of the clothes more than any flashy patterns. The outfits were made from light fabrics that flowed perfectly with the movements of the models. Satin and silk were used to keep the garments classic and allowed them to shimmer in the light. The dresses and pants were fluid and created movement as the models strutted down the runway.

Recently, midi skirts have taken over the fashion world. Thinking back to the 2010s, maxi skirts had the spotlight for a few years and short skirts have always been circulating the fashion world. However, skirts that meet in the middle are now everywhere. Midi skirts are perfect for spring because they keep your legs shielded on chilly days, but stay light and airy for the warm temperatures. The long skirts were often paired with a deep neckline to channel just the right amount of modesty.

Many of the shirts included puffy and long sleeves. Sometimes known as balloon sleeves, this victorian technique was very popular in this year’s fall and winter collections, so it is no surprise they will continue to be popular this spring. This type of sleeve can add a chic demeanor to even a basic outfit.

The line seems to pull inspiration from lingerie with silk and lace, but channels a level of professionalism that is ready to wear. The line includes many high necks with collars and a trendier version of a blazer. There is a clear inspiration taken from classic business fashion, but many of the looks have cut-outs or sheer pieces that make the outfits feel sexy.

The accessories were bold and stood out against the simple closet pieces. Statement earrings made out of beautiful beading drew attention upward and stood out against the more basic shirts. Bright, patterned scarves either tied in the model’s hair or around their necks added a pop of color and tied everything together. These accessories contrasted the simple clothing and made a statement in the look.

What’s a fashion-forward look without incorporating a statement bag or striking shoes. One of the looks was featured with a black, abstract shoulder bag. Although not the same, this bag closely resembles the Christian Dior Oblique Saddle Bag that has been increasingly popular on social media. The unique shape makes it a must-have especially with the popularity of shoulder bags. These mini purses have been one of the most popular types of stylish bags this year. Although shoes are rarely the showcase, the shoes in this line beautifully accentuate the colors of the clothing. Many of the shoes were functional flats or small heels with a bit of color from the outfit. Ruffles were also featured on many of the shoe straps, which is surprising because ruffles were minimal in the clothing pieces.

This line is significantly different from both the 2020 Spring/Summer collection as well as the 2019 Spring/Summer collection. In the 2019 line, the focus was on patterns and many of the clothes were bolder. Many geometric patterns were featured and the colors were much deeper. The 2020 line also contained deeper colors and included many silver and black pieces. Outerwear and heavy fabrics were much more present in the 2020 collection compared to the upcoming 2021 designs.

Hu has always been focused on making outfits both professional and stylish, which is hard to find in the world of business clothing. She originally received a degree in finance and worked in investment banking for over three years. She wanted a more creative career path and worked for a degree in fashion from Parsons School of Design. Her first collection was a spring/summer line in 2012 and she opened her first store in 2013.

“In the corporate world I see women lose their personal style for the sake of professionalism…forced to follow dress code and as a result being ‘uniform’,” said Hu on her website. “Women should never be forced to give up something so personal …My vision is to break open this forced box by bridging the gap between personality and professionalism.”

Vivienne Hu continues to show the professional world that work attire can be fashionable. Her Spring 2021 collection perfectly captures sophistication while staying graceful and sleek. The pieces in this line were functional enough to wear while still showing the designs of high fashion. The exquisite details tied each look together and made the line cohesive. This line is one to watch for this spring, especially if timeless pieces and business wear are a part of your wardrobe. Keep up with Vivienne Hu fashion on their website or Instagram.