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Vans is continuing its support of the LGBTQIA+ community with its new Queer Poets project — which includes artist Tyris Winter. The
Within the line, Winter — who previously worked with Vans on its 2023 Pride Month campaign — was tapped to reimagine the skate brand’s signature sneakers and clothing. The artist created an abstract print of multicolored individuals hugging, inspired by the textures of their childhood bedroom walls. The resulting print can be seen across Vans’ signature $90 Old Skool sneakers, making up its paneled uppers alongside brown suede overlay and embroidered counters for an artistic touch.
“I hope [the public] will see the passion and love that went into creating this line,” Winter exclusively told FN. “It means a lot to me in a sense where I feel as though younger Tyris is being honored and healed.”
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The rest of Winter’s capsule within the skate brand’s Queer Poets line is complete with a matching set of $50 drawstring shorts, as well as a matching $55 button-up shirt — each covered in their aforementioned print. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Winter hopes that the collaboration with Vans will inspire additional brands to support identifying individuals and take the initiative to do so.
“I believe it’s important for us to see representations of ourselves not only in the spaces but behind the scenes.” Winter shares. “I would love for more brands to include us in all aspects and with Vans, I really have felt included in all aspects.”
Vans’ Queer Poets collection has tapped three LGBTQIA+ artists — Tyris Winter, Kae Tempest and Tegan & Sara — to create exclusive versions of its signature skatewear products in a new capsule collection, which aims to foster inclusivity and self-expression. The full collection is currently available on Vans’ website.
