Vans is back for its second collaboration with multidisciplinary designer and creative visionary, Nicole McLaughlin, and this time they’re taking functional design to a new level with the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS.
Known for her playful upcycled creations and ability to transform everyday materials into multi-functional designs, Nicole brings her ingenuity to a collection that’s built for adventure, creativity, and just a little bit of mischief.
“It’s key to have elements of functionality, mixed with a sense of conceptual art and style,” says Nicole. “Creating pieces that can be multi-purpose but also fun has always been my goal. I was inspired by vintage hiking packs from the ‘70s and the aesthetic of outdoor gear from that era for the collection.”
The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS reinvents an iconic silhouette with a built-in rucksack pocket on the toe and adjustable nylon webbing. A 40% recycled canvas upper, treated with PFC-free DWR waterproofing, keeps things resilient, while a lugged tread outsole delivers multi-surface traction for whatever the day brings.
The collection extends beyond footwear with the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksack (a climbing chalk bag made from 40% recycled canvas) and the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksock, made from 80% organic cotton with a built-in cargo pocket for added function. Its utility meets creativity, all wrapped in Nicole’s signature DIY spirit.
The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS will be available in two colourways, Tanl and Grey while the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksack and Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksock will be available in Oatmeal.
Playful, inventive, and packed with detail, the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin campaign brings the collection to life through miniature storytelling. Going off-grid, the Slip-On RS unpacks with tiny survival tools and sets up camp in a scaled-down outdoor world. The collection is also showcased inside a mini replica of Nicole’s own atelier, a nod to her unconventional creative process. Shot and styled by Nicole herself, the campaign flips the script on functional design to prove that utility and imagination go hand in hand.
“I love DIY culture and designs people can interact with and further customise themselves,” says Nicole. “I encourage people to make the pieces their own and I’m excited to see how they will be personalised!”
The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin collection will be available to shop on Vans.co.za and at select retailers beginning 27 February 2025.
About Nicole McLaughlin
Nicole McLaughlin is a designer and multidisciplinary artist based in Boulder, Colorado. Her work and explorations focus on sustainability and upcycling, using fun and functionality to create a conversation around change. Her work has been featured in various publications such as Vogue, GQ, and The New York Times.
About Vans
Vans®, a VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC) brand, is the original action sports footwear, apparel and accessories brand. Vans® authentic collections are sold in 84 countries through a network of subsidiaries, distributors and international offices. Vans® has over 2,000 retail locations globally including owned, concession and partnership doors. The Vans® brand promotes creative self-expression in youth culture across action sports, art, music and street culture and delivers progressive platforms such as the Vans Park Series, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing®, Vans Pool Party, Vans Custom Culture, and Vans’ cultural hub and international music venue, House of Vans.
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