Surprising many, A Ma Maniére unveiled on Monday afternoon the latest collaboration between Salehe Bembury and the venerable house of New Balance. This reimagining of the classic 1500 model whispers rather than shouts, imbuing the familiar silhouette with considered chromatic accents against a backdrop of refined neutrality.

About the Salehe Bembury x New Balance MADE in UK 1500v1

The upper is a study in textural counterpoint: warm beige suede overlays, like sun-kissed dunes, juxtapose with the cool gray of the mesh toebox and the smooth, almost glacial gray leather cradling the ankle. A delicate flourish of bright yellow embroidery illuminates the co-branded tongue and the heel tab, where New Balance’s iconic “NB” insignia resides.

Yet, it is the sole unit that intrigues, a canvas of subtle yet dynamic tones. Butter-hued midsoles, reminiscent of aged parchment, are punctuated by a grounding block of brown at the heel, while a playful duet of purple and orange graces the lateral side, injecting a touch of unexpected dynamism.

The predominantly gray outsole, a study in tonal gradation, is bisected by a verdant green panel at the mid-arch, culminating in an electrifying flash of blue at the heel—a final, decisive stroke of artistic brilliance.

This latest creation stands in contrast to the more overtly expressive vernacular of the designer’s recent forays into the world of Crocs, such as the boldly sculpted Pollex Juniper. Where those designs embraced a maximalist aesthetic, this New Balance 1500 finds its strength in its subdued approach and a respectful nod to the brand’s pedigree.

This stands in stark juxtaposition to the preceding year’s unveiling: the Salehe Bembury x New Balance 1906R “Heat Be Hot”, a more flamboyant spectacle of shimmering silver overlays and flame-hued gradient uppers, a bold statement within a distinctly retro-futuristic framework. This new iteration, however, speaks in a softer voice, a testament to the designer’s versatile palette and his ability to orchestrate both the grand crescendo and the delicate pianissimo.

Release Details

A firm release date hasn’t been announced yet, but the Salehe Bembury x New Balance MADE in UK 1500v1 has been ascertained for release sometime in January 2025 with an RRP of US$275. Stay tuned!

In other news, check out the nonnative x ASICS GEL-YETITOKYO HI GTX. You can also head to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and browse the latest and greatest in sneakers, streetwear, and TCG.

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