CASE 01: Takashi Kodama A senior wore "PUMA SUEDE" with his setup.
PROFILE
Born in 1985. After working in sales and PR at "BEAUTY&YOUTH UNITED ARROWS", she has been in charge of PR at "UNITED ARROWS green label relaxing" since January this year. Her trademark is a fresh smile and a casual style with a certain elegance. He is a well-known UA press representative known for his light footwork.
Instagram: @takashikodama_
SUEDE CLASSIC XXI ¥9,790
What kind of shoes are you in the mood for these days, Mr. Kodama?
Kodama:Since I spend more time in simple outfits, I often incorporate a splash of color with my shoes. Recently, I am inclined to choose bright colors for my feet rather than black or white.
Purple and yellow is also a distinctive coloring this time, isn't it?
Kodama:Yes, it is. I chose this color because it was the most eye-catching color in the lineup. I have the basic colors of the "PUMA SUEDE" and wanted to try a new color. These shoes are classy even among low-tech shoes, and I think the spring-like color scheme goes well with the current season. I have been wearing the same sneakers lately, but after checking out the "PUMA SUEDE" for the first time in a while, I felt like wearing them again, and I was able to wear them with a fresh feeling.
Did you used to wear them a lot?
Kodama:Beauty & Youth United Arrows (B&Y), for which I was in charge of PR until recently, had made several special orders for me, and I was wearing those items. I also used to wear red and black "CLYDE" shoes that I found while scavenging through vintage clothing. So I wore a lot of "PUMA" shoes.
What kind of image do you have of the PUMA brand?
Kodama:I have a strong image of soccer spikes. I played soccer when I was in school, and everyone in my generation wore PUMA.
After I joined the select store, I learned that there is a connection with culture, and I recognized that the shoes are essential for old-school street style. I have the impression that the brand has both sports and culture axes, with athletes as well as hip-hop artists wearing the shoes.
From the front, SUEDE CLASSIC NY, SUEDE CLASSIC LA
What kind of model is the "PUMA SUEDE" that you brought today?
Kodama:This is a special order for this season's "B&Y. The "PUMA SUEDE" comes in navy, inspired by New York City, and sand beige, inspired by the sandy beaches of Los Angeles. At first glance, one might ask, "What is this special order? The color of the stitching and the way the logo is placed are exquisitely arranged. It's a clean design that can be worn with any outfit.
Are "PUMA" products popular in stores as well?
Kodama:Yes, they have always been popular. Puma's special orders are not released every season, but rather when they are truly needed, so I think customers appreciate them and find them fresh.
Do you think the popularity is also due to the fact that they are low-tech sneakers?
Kodama:I think that's part of it. It is easy to balance with pants, and it can be used for a wide range of fashion tastes, from beautiful to casual to street. The understated design is also attractive. They blend in with coordinates and are easy to wear. I think that's why they are supported by so many people.
Today I'm wearing it with a set-up, but it also matches with that kind of outfit.
Kodama:I wanted to match them with a slightly elegant atmosphere. Also, when I first joined "UNITED ARROWS", one of my seniors was wearing "PUMA SUEDE" with a set-up. I thought it was really cool. I had never thought of wearing sneakers with outfits before, so that style was an eye-opener for me. Today, I took his styling as a reference.
Mr. Kodama mentioned earlier that compared to other low-tech sneakers, the "PUMA SUEDE" has a certain elegance to it.
Kodama:I think the suede material and the shape of the shoe give that impression. The fact that it goes well with a set-up means that it also goes well with slacks on their own. So you can bring casual items for the tops and enjoy coordinating them in various ways.
What do you expect from PUMA in the future?
Kodama:It would be great if you could bring back the service where you can order the "PUMA SUEDE" in your own color scheme." Like a "personalized order" (lol). Because the silhouette is plain, I feel that there is a higher chance of finding a cool color scheme compared to other low-tech sneakers. If that service were announced now, I would definitely jump at it.
