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  • Issue #26 | Bad news for lovers of classic Nike

Issue #26 | Bad news for lovers of classic Nike

Plus modern Americana and new collabs for Spring

Welcome to Style Uncut. The latest and greatest in men’s fashion and style brought direct to your inbox every week.

Bad news for lovers of the Air Force 1

House of Heat reports that Nike's recent fiscal 2024 third-quarter earnings call shed light on a significant shift in the brand's strategy that has Air Force 1 fans and sneaker enthusiasts paying close attention. CFO Matt Friend confirmed a pivotal move by the sportswear giant: a deliberate reduction in the supply of classic models, including the iconic Air Force 1, as part of Nike's broader initiative to emphasize innovation and introduce fresh designs to the market.

The Air Force 1, a staple of Nike’s retro business since its debut in 1982, represents a larger challenge for the brand as it navigates the balance between honoring its classics and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Nike's recent efforts have been criticized for an over-reliance on rehashing old designs, highlighting the necessity for "product newness at scale" in its portfolio. The positive consumer response to Nike's latest designs has further motivated the company to expedite its strategy of pulling back on certain lines, including the beloved Air Force 1.

Read the full piece now on House of Heat.

Yogi x Universal Works S/S collab launches

Just in time for Spring, Universal Works have dropped their latest collaboration with mocassin aficionados Yogi. In their own words:

Following the success of our initial collaborative project, we couldn't resist reconnecting with certified masters of the laid-back moccasin, Yogi, for another joint venture that’s available for Spring/Summer '24. Continuing from our previous collaboration, we've once again infused Yogi's signature silhouettes with a distinct UW twist. Leading the pack and returning for Spring Summer is the Hitch Loafer, a design adapted from their Hitch Shoe, specifically for our last collaboration.

This season, it returns in hairy suede, in a refreshing sand colourway, with a crepe outsole. Additionally, we've selected Yogi’s Floyd II Mules, an effortless summer shoe, made in a mix of tumbled and reverse tumbled leather, it’s a style that is already beloved by our team. Then there are the Rudy II Loafers in tumbled leather, initially chosen as the perfect pairing for UW’s suiting but versatile enough for everyday wear. And last but certainly not least, the Olson Boat Shoe in soft suede, a personal favourite of our co-founder David’s, stands out as a comfortable and breathable shoe — consistent with all Yogi's footwear, thanks to the unlined leathers and suedes they use throughout. To maintain consistency and further emphasise the UW touch, we've reintroduced the collaborative hand-stitched cross detail seen in our previous capsule.

Check out the collection now on the Universal Works website.

Modern Americana from a sustainable NY brand

This week we want to highlight a NY clothing brand that is making big waves especially with the drop of their new Spring/Summer collection.

Knickerbocker is a New York-based brand founded by Andrew Livingston in 2013 and began as a manufacturing company on the border of Brooklyn and Queens. The factory's unique environment, complete with sewing machines, rolls of fabric, and a skateboard ramp, fostered a community of independent and creative individuals.

Knickerbocker's philosophy centers around a deep appreciation for people and processes, which the brand has carried with it as it has expanded to work with like-minded mills and factories. Knickerbocker's collection reflects a fusion of classic american style with layered elements of art, music, and sports, emphasizing tradition, utility and purpose.

The new Spring/Summer collection is available now.

Latest pick ups

Brava Corduroy Pleated Pants $157

From The Wire Cashmere Wool Utility Track Jacket $561

Truman Java Waxed Flesh Belt $120

Fracap Sabbia Shoes $225

Inspiration

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