Multidisciplinary artist and designer Nicole McLaughlin is known for her outlandish creative takes on normal objects – a “playful and experimental mix of fashion and art”, as she described it – she’s made a necklace out of pills, bras made out of headphones and headphones made from fine china. And the girl loves a pocket.
Nicole has dropped the craziest trail-inspired collab with Vans, and we got to catch up with her and chat about her new linkup. The collection features a reworked take on the Vans Slip-On RS with functional and modifiable elements that make it unique to Nicole’s work.
Talk to us about your new Vans collab.
“This project with Vans is a second iteration from our first collab in 2023 (the gardening tote). I knew I wanted to build on that concept and keep the silhouette a slip-on, but add a mini hiking pack to the upper, and make it a lugged outsole for all of my outdoor adventures.
I drew inspiration from ‘70s hiking packs, adding nods like the leather triangle patch, heavyweight canvas and webbing. I love things that are multi-purpose, but also customisable. Adding details like the pocket and webbing loops allow the customer to add their own personality and ‘gear’ to the shoes.”
What was the most interesting thing on the mood board?
“I found photos that were taken in the ‘70s in the mountains in Colorado (where I’m based). I found a photo of a hiker who was wearing a pack that gave me the idea for this project.”
What’s your design process like?
“Very hands-on. I love to explore materials by deconstructing and reconstructing. I usually begin a project by perusing a thrift store or eBay. From there, I start messing with whatever object or material until I start to see shapes that I like.
I get inspired by many things. The outdoors, rock climbing, the gear we use, as well as everyday objects whether that be kitchen utensils, sporting equipment, food.”
Did you get to explore the Vans archive at all?
“I had the pleasure of visiting the Vans office when we kicked off this project. I met so many people who shared stories with me about the company’s history and they showed me all their Vans treasures they’ve collected over the years. I left with a lot of amazing inspiration, knowledge and even a goodie bag full of knick knacks from around the office.”
We all grew up with Vans, what does this project mean to you?
“This project has been so special to me. Vans slip-ons were the first shoe I ever customised (as a teenager), so this feels like the coolest full circle moment. I’m so excited to see these shoes in the streets and on the trails.”
The collection is available on nicolemclaughlin.com and vans.com
Featured images Vans©/Nicole McLaughlin©
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