Japan’s advancements in the last half-century may be a blip in the grand tapestry of history, but their influence on contemporary culture is nearly omnipresent. From technological to artistic, the country’s innovation and impressions on the world are ones we’re lucky enough to experience in our lifetimes. One such cultural phenomenon is Hello Kitty, an anthropomorphic character whose unwitting rise to stardom has transcended generations and borders.

Created in 1974, Hello Kitty (officially named Kitty White) initially targeted preteenage girls. As kawaii culture grew in the 1990s, her appeal expanded to include teenage and adult consumers as well.

Despite the declining popularity within Japan, the brand continued to thrive on the world stage, achieving global recognition and commercial success as one of the country’s greatest exports. By 2010, Hello Kitty’s estimated annual value reached a staggering US$5 billion, her fame reminiscent of her mouse counterpart in Anaheim, California.

Kitty White’s “rags to riches” story may have begun with a vinyl coin purse, where she debuted as a nameless character. But in the following decades, she’s been on cars, coffee, clothes, comics, and even commercial airlines. Any tangible object you can see, she’s probably adorned it, in one way or another, in one time or another. Hello Kitty’s traveled far and wide, and it’s unlikely that anyone can ever walk in her shoes, but you can wear her on yours.

Thus, to commemorate one of the most iconic characters in the world, here are the best Hello Kitty shoes you should buy now on SNKRDUNK!

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For the latest news and updates on sneakers, streetwear, and TCGs, stay tuned to SNKRDUNK Magazine and follow us on social media. To experience these products firsthand, visit our physical locations in Singapore and Japan.

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