Jovani Hernandez Virgil Abloh helped NIKE, Inc. change the sneaker landscape four years ago through his Off-White label’s “The Ten” collection, which deconstructed (you guessed it) 10 footwear icons from the Swoosh conglomerate’s roster. While the game-changing partnership has produced a handful of highly-coveted releases since 2017, it has yet to recapture the momentum of the aforementioned capsule. Recent rumors, however, suggest another 10-piece collection – effectively titled “The Twenty” – is in the works.
Although speculation about new projects has surrounded Abloh for years, the latest hearsay has arrived immediately following the announcement of the designer’s “ICONS,” a new book co-created by publisher TASCHEN in which Abloh revisits over 50 sneaker designs from his time with NIKE, Inc. so far. Previously-unseen prototypes of the Nike Air Max 97 and other models that made it into “The Ten” appear throughout the editorial. And because the Illinois-native has explored the subject matter before, “ICONS” may serve as the figurative chapter’s closing.
Any cohesive collection from Off-White for the North American sportswear giant will unquestionably be compared to 2017’s “The Ten.” Yet, enthusiasts may not want new iterations of all original silhouettes (sorry, React Hyperdunk). Another Air Jordan 1 is undoubtedly desired, but given how popular the model has gotten since 2017, featuring it in the potential “The Twenty” seems like a cheat-code.
If Abloh’s next extensive project with NIKE, Inc. arrives in 2021, the Jordan 6 may be a perfect fit for the collection given that it celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. “The Twenty” would certainly be incomplete without a Nike Dunk, which the Off-White frontman helped revitalize over the last four years. Obscure models from the Swoosh’s running catalog, as well as beloved icons from professional basketball’s golden era, would be welcomed additions to “The Ten” collection’s follow-up. Whether or not Abloh releases another 10 looks into his mind, two things are certain: 1. Every pair will sell out and 2. The 40-year-old will further cement himself in design history.
While you wait for more details on the possible “The Twenty” collection, check out all confirmed and rumored Jordan release dates.
UPDATE (01/13/2021):
Virgil Abloh has confirmed more Off-White x NIKE, Inc. sneakers via social media. Forthcoming releases include the Air Jordan 1 “Canary Yellow” and some never-before-seen pairs.
Source: @py_rates
