Aleali May’s Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT “Califia” Is Inspired By Her Drill Team Past

Sneaker News April 21st, 2021 (updated)

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At first glance, Aleali May’s upcoming Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT collaboration had established a clear and present connection to high school varsity garb, with chenille appliques and satin finishes providing that look of school spirit. The full apparel collection – a first for Aleali and Jordan – also hits on jersey mesh materials and baggy tearaway pants, a perfect overlap with the heritage of Jordan Brand. However this upcoming capsule touches on Aleali’s personal experience with the team-based dynamic, and it isn’t particularly with the game of basketball.

Through the help of her drill team coach Shanora Holloway, who described Aleali as “very very very shy”, Aleali’s boldness and expression was coerced during her time with the drill and cheering squad in California. The development of that personality has since manifested itself in her distinct art of styling, which has since carried May through the world of fashion while landing her the rare collaborative opportunity with the Jumpman.

The entire collection is indeed an homage to Michael Jordan and the game, but Aleali’s personal touches, exemplified by the skirted shorts, extended edges of the AJ1, and jersey top, once again reflects how deftly Aleali can merge two styles into one cohesively bonded unit. Gathering it all under a “Califia” moniker further nods to the Black queen that may have had influence in naming the state of California.

The Aleali May x Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT “Califia” and accompanying apparel collection is confirmed to release on April 22nd on SNKRS and select retailers; see the full lookbook ahead to capture the entire collection.

Updated April 21st, 2021: The SNKRS release date has been postponed to 4/26/21.