- Words Liam Cattermole
Continuing their ongoing collaborative partnership, Wales Bonner and Adidas are releasing two new Samba colourways for SS23.
Paying homage to Jamaica’s intimate connections with nature, for SS23, British-Caribbean designer Wales Bonner and Adidas have released a blissful short film. From the first second of Jalan and Jibril Durimel’s directed visuals, you’re transported to a place of peace, where bamboo boarding down streams and swimming in ocean blue lakes is common practice. Much like the new collection, the video captures Jamaica’s idyllic landscape as slow motion and underwater shots show off the island’s heavenly qualities.
For her SS23 adidas collection, Wales uses refreshing colour palettes that draw inspiration from the nation’s tropical wildlife. Highlights include a light teal nylon tracksuit, knitted sweater vests and a towelling top and short set. Other worthy mentions span from silver anoraks to a quintessential Jamaican Harrington jacket.
However, it’s the trainer selection that will again grab the headlines. Fusing European heritage with an Afro-Atlantic spirit, the WB samba is back in two distinctive colourways. Those looking for a statement shoe will find it in the striking silver leather and crochet striped silhouette, while an ecru-tinted and dark brown alternative provides a more neutral flare. Alternatively, the WB SL72 knit sees Wales recontextualise the retro adidas trainer around Jamaican motifs, flaunting vibrant yellow and green colours.
