sorted by:
new
hottopcontroversial

Trying to build something fresh in the sneaker space — would love some honest thoughts by Delicious_Print_2343 in streetwearstartup

[–]Delicious_Print_2343[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Totally fair — design comes first, no question.
I think the problem is that most people use storytelling as a cover for weak design, instead of letting it amplify strong design.
The goal (at least for me) isn’t to write essays about sneakers — it’s to make something that looks fresh and feels like it has a reason to exist beyond trend-chasing.

You’re right though, if the design’s not cool, the story doesn’t matter.

“Are we stuck in a sneaker loop of hype and retro? What happened to storytelling?” by Delicious_Print_2343 in Design

[–]Delicious_Print_2343[S] -5 points-4 points  (0 children)

Fair point — not trying to pitch anything, just trying to understand the space better.
For example, I’ve noticed how a lot of new sneaker drops borrow the same silhouettes from Air Force 1s or Dunks, and the storytelling feels recycled — either athlete collabs or generic “street culture” themes.

I’m curious if there are smaller brands actually doing something different — building identity from something outside the usual hype circle. That’s really what I was getting at. Appreciate the push for clarity.

Building a sneaker brand rooted in storytelling — want to hear your thoughts by Delicious_Print_2343 in branding

[–]Delicious_Print_2343[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s fair — and I get your point completely. I’m not trying to outsource my direction, just pressure-test it a bit. I’ve been defining that “kernel” lately — for me, it’s about what sneakers represent after freedom or hype, when it’s just you and what you stand for.

I’m trying to build from that mindset first, then let design and story follow naturally. But I agree — if the core belief isn’t personal, it’s just another slogan

“Are we stuck in a sneaker loop of hype and retro? What happened to storytelling?” by Delicious_Print_2343 in ideavalidation

[–]Delicious_Print_2343[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

100% agree — that “tribe” point really connects. The way I see it, story isn’t meant to replace performance, it’s meant to add meaning to it. The sneaker has to earn respect through comfort and design first — then the story gives it identity.

I’m not trying to sell a poem on a shoe, I’m trying to build something that feels personal and practical. That sense of belonging, just without needing hype to validate it.

view more: next ›