Zalando has partnered with Nike to create an exclusive red swoosh colourway for the V2K sneaker. The latest trainer effortlessly blends retro nostalgia with a forward-thinking design ethos, channelling the essence of early 2000s running culture. With bold reds and understated neutrals, it is adorned with nostalgic accents that pay homage to the classic Nike Vomero 5.

Crafted with a breathable mesh upper layer, this silhouette offers a light and airy feel that’s perfect for everyday wear. The dual-density foam midsole provides unmatched comfort, while translucent details add a touch of authenticity to the design. Finished with a durable rubber outsole, this shoe promises reliable traction for every stride.

To bring the shoe to life, Berlin-based stylist Theresa Grs worked with a photographer and AI artist to reinterpret the shoes through three trend forecasts. Below she talks us through her process and inspirations.

THE V2K WAS AT THE CENTRE OF THE CAMPAIGN

As the star of the campaign, the V2K was shown in its exclusive red colourway. Speaking on the shoe, Grs explains, “Since the V2K is super comfy, and in my opinion not overly seasonal or intentionally overly trendy, I think it could be a perfect staple for everyone in every city.”

When discussing how she believes Nike has evolved over time, she says: “Nike has always been a staple in everyone’s closet but in my eyes, Nike has constantly evolved and elevated itself in every department. Not only great campaigns with amazing talents from every field but also the constant empowerment of women and the power of the mind and body have made it a brand that will last forever.”

THREE TRENDS WERE SPOTLIGHTED

Theresa was inspired by three imagined style trends: office punk, quiet maximalism and elevated utility. The shoot depicts V2K reinterpreted through the lens of each trend. “I feel like we all are inspired by different trends and people that we follow and the diversity, hometown and cultural backgrounds of each and everyone makes them interesting and worth following,” explains Grs.

AI WAS USED AS A KEY TOOL FOR THE SHOOT

Over the last few years, there has been a steady increase in AI’s prevalence in the creative industries. For this campaign, Theresa and photographer Sevda utilised the newfound assistance of AI for creating and editing the images. “I feel like AI could inspire pieces that are dreamed up and coded by others into real-life pieces. Everything starts with the imagination so it feels like a great tool for everyone to use and create something that is unique and shaped by imagination and technical progress,” Grs says. “Two important worlds collide here that are entirely opposite. How awesome, actually, to have your words and ideas come to life in the most realistic way.”

“AI is good for fashion because is fun and playful. Fashion nowadays is all about numbers, AI provides a huge platform to experiment with fashion without spending tonnes of money,” says photographer Sevda, speaking on her experiences with AI. “Even if you are not based in a huge city, you are still able to make your vision come to life. Everybody should learn AI because it's not going away. AI needs a diverse group of people, with different mindsets to learn all directions and visions.”

PERSONAL STYLE WAS CELEBRATED 

Despite channelling the three distinct trends, personal style was still celebrated for the campaign. “Owning a trend in my opinion is truly by being yourself and not choosing something because it was trendy and you wanted to fit in, but rather naturally gravitate towards it cause you feel comfortable with this style,” Grs notes. “Never intentionally go for trends but get inspired wherever you can and try to incorporate certain elements of trends you see effortlessly into your own wardrobe. The best trend is to be comfortable and yourself, always remember!”

Watch the BTS of the shoot below.

Head to Zalando here to find out more.