The Adidas Stan Smith Gets Tassel Covers to Continue the Sneaker-Loafer Trend

The Adidas Stan Smith now looks a bit more dapper thanks to the work of Beams creative director Shinsuke Nakada.

The Shinsuke Nakada x Adidas Stan Smith Lux sees the classic sneaker retooled with a premium suede upper and a tassel shroud covering its laces. Rope laces add to the smart shoe theme, and the sneaker is available in brown and black editions with sole units matching the upper. Metal eyelets also match while bringing a sense of refinement, and the liner of both variants is constructed with a khaki leather.

Nakada borrowing a page from loafers comes as part of a wider trend of sneakers hybridizing with their dressier counterparts. Puma recently collaborated with Polomo Spain on a collection featuring with Polomo Spain on a collection featuring two versions of the Nitefox transformed into a loafer as well. Leaked images have also gone viral quite early for New Balance’s hit 1906R sneaker cut lower sans laces and featuring the paneling of a penny loafer. That sneaker-loafer isn’t expected to release until the fall but looks set to be a major driver of hype.

The Stan Smith collaboration is Nakada’s first turn with Adidas as an individual, and last year he launched his own label, Unlikely. Through Beams, Through Beams, he’s collaborated with both New Balance and Reebok on a regular basis, in addition to more infrequent work with Adidas, Nike, Asics and Mizuno. Just last year, a Beams x New Balance collaboration turned the 2002R into a mule.

The Shinsuke Nakada x Adidas Stan Smith Lux capsule is out now through Adidas Japan, and a wider release in the United States or elsewhere has not yet been confirmed.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.