Berlin-based artist and model Kicki Yang Zhang has been kicking goals in the fashion world since her debut campaign in 2018. Having since worked with brands like Gucci, Burberry, and Maison Margiela, the opportunities are only just getting bigger for Zhang. ASICS are next to collaborate with the star, with the duo having created not one, but two iterations of the GEL-NYC in a Chinese guohua-style design that ties back to Zhang’s heritage and artistic style.
The first colourway is a murdered-out rendition that has silver metallic hits striking the overlays on the toe, eyelets, and branding stripes. The design brings eye-catching light to the contours of the silhouette, and the feature is carried across to the other colourway: a delicious baby pink and cream. The pink anchors the cream, white and silver sections of the make-up, hitting the sole, bottom overlay, sock liner and laces. Adding to its strawberry cheesecake aesthetic is the sparkly dark pink gel hiding along the midsole. Both pairs feature a cartoon-style portrait of Zhang on the insole, adding the artist’s stamp to the colab.