Jesse James
Always evolving and expanding, the iconic sportswear brand PUMA is back with something special. They have debuted their first-ever collaboration with R H U D E. R H U D E was founded back in 2015 by LA-based designer Rhuigi Villaseñor. The imprint offers a dualistic aesthetic in menswear, offering minimalist aesthetics while simultaneously re-contextualizing the streetwear genre. For his first collabo with PUMA, Villaseñor encompassed the brand DNA of PUMA, blending classic suiting techniques, compelling patterns, and pops of color. The collection includes unisex separates and footwear with the PUMA logo celebrated through RH U D E’s unique take on iconography.
Speaking about the collection, R H U D E founder Villaseñorexplains: “Having immigrated to the United States before going to high-school, I learned about the power of brand recognition in a different way than most American designers. The power of a logo can hold such weight and serve armor in its own way, the idea that I have the access to re-imagine that concept with my own brand in partnership with PUMA is a dream come true its own right.” PUMA Global Senior Head of Partnerships, Yassine Saidi also spoke about the collaboration as well. Saidi stated: “Rhuigi is the most exciting designer right now, setting a new narrative in the fashion and street space. For us as a brand, we are extremely excited to introduce this partnership and to continue to grow our relationship with Rhuigi and his R H U D E brand. For our first collaboration with R H U D E, we transformed the iconic sport-inspired silhouettes from PUMA with R H U D E’s recognized streetwear sensibility and minimalistic approach in order to create disruptive new models.”
The range includes the 90s’ sport-inspired PUMA CELL Alien R H U D E, which consists of a dark mesh base and synthetic leather overlays on the upper. The sneakers are finished off with a chunky sole in light beige, silver reflective hints on the eyestay, toebox and heelpiece. The visible cell technology in splashy green menthol for an eye-catching aesthetic. The retro-inspired PUMA Palace Guard R H U D E mixes soft, two-tone hues in suede, leather, and nylon on the upper with disruptive, randomly placed stitching and a perforated formstrip, boasting an unfinished look. We then see the PUMA Basket ’68 OG Mid R H U D E with overlays in a light suede, dark details on the upper and a clean rubber midsole in pebble.
The kicks are then finished off with a metallic finish formstrip. The collection is finished off with the PUMAALTERATION R H U D E. The sneaker is seen with a neoprene upper with suede overlays, dark detail onto the tongue and heel with an eye-catching menthol green. The PUMA X RHUDEcollection creates a minimalistic look with a bold message while boasting a stylish, rebellious allure.
Take a look at the collection in the images and head over to PUMA to find out more. Look for the PUMA X R H U D E collection to arrive at PUMA, PUMA.com and select retailers on August 3rd.
Photos via PUMA
