The most unexpected luxury collaborations of recent times
Balenciaga x Crocs: haute couture meets comfort in casual wear. In 2022, a Balenciaga transformed the classic Crocs into stilettos and rain boots, creating a surprising fusion of style and practicality. The partnership wasn’t the first between the two brands, as in 2017 Balenciaga had already introduced the controversial platform Crocs for its Spring/Summer 2018 collection. The unusual model sold out quickly, proving that fashion can subvert the basic and turn it into an absolute desire.
Tiffany & Co. x Supreme: The century-old jeweler Tiffany & Co. joined forces with the streetwear icon Supreme in 2021. Inspired by the “Return to Tiffany” collection from the 1960s, the collaboration featured sterling silver pieces that reimagined Tiffany classics with a modern, urban twist. Highlights included necklaces, rings and bracelets engraved with the iconic “Please Return to Supreme” inscription and a Tiffany blue heart pendant, showcasing the perfect marriage of sophistication and streetwear.
Gucci x Adidas: when sportswear meets refinement. This Spring/Summer 2022 collaboration by Gucci, in partnership with Adidas, elevated athleisure to new heights of sophistication. Under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele, the collection featured tailored suits adorned with Adidas’s three stripes, vintage 1970s–inspired dresses and the classic Gazelle revamped in sumptuous fabrics. The campaign, captured with a nostalgic vibe, reinforced the idea that sport can indeed be synonymous with sophistication.
Fendi x Versace: Donatella Versace and Kim Jones swapped roles in this “Fendace,” merging their iconic monograms in a collection that defies expectations. The unconventional project brought Fendi’s codes to Versace’s exuberant pieces and vice versa, resulting in jewel-like dresses, baroque prints and iconic bags reimagined with elements from both houses. Presented at an exclusive show in Milan, the collaboration demonstrated the harmonious possibilities between two Italian fashion powerhouses.
Balenciaga x Vibram: in 2020, the “Toe Shoes” were born. A fusion of Balenciaga’s high fashion and Vibram’s minimalist footwear expertise that stunned the fashion world. The toe shoes, inspired by athletics and performance, were reimagined with high heels and futuristic structural details. The piece symbolizes Balenciaga’s obsession with challenging conventions and creating products that make an immediate impact.
Stüssy x Dries Van Noten: California streetwear from Stüssy meets Belgian avant-garde from Dries Van Noten. The 2022 collaboration offered an unexpected fusion of tailoring and laid-back surfwear elements. Pieces included oversized tie-dye suits, psychedelic-print tees and jackets embroidered with rhinestones, capturing an irreverent, contemporary spirit.
Nike x Virgil Abloh: the Off-White collaboration brought a touch of haute couture to the Nike sneaker universe, redefining streetwear. Creative director of Off-White and artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s men’s line, Virgil Abloh revolutionized the way we view sports footwear design. His “The Ten” project deconstructed Nike classics by adding industrial elements like zip ties, exposed stitching and technical typography. Its impact has been so significant that these collaborations remain highly prized on the resale market.
Yuool x Disney: sustainability meets nostalgia. A Yuool sneaker celebrating 100 years of Disney magic with an environmental conscience. The Brazilian sustainable footwear brand, known for the comfort of its merino wool models, launched a special collection to honor Disney’s centenary. The pieces feature muted colors, recyclable soles and subtle nods to the history of Disney’s iconic characters, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.
Balenciaga x Gucci: the 2022 “Hacker Project” saw Alessandro Michele “hacking” Balenciaga’s codes, resulting in pieces that challenge brand logic. The collaboration was part of Gucci’s “Aria” collection and featured elements like the iconic GG monogram mixed with the Balenciaga name, creating items that play with the boundaries of brand identity. Jackets, bags, boots and even the iconic Hourglass bag were recreated under this bold concept, cementing the project as one of the most innovative in recent years in fashion.
And you, which dream collaboration would you love to see in the future?
