Spearheaded a strategic brand partnership between Nike SB and Polaroid, leading product strategy and creative direction for a collaborative sneaker that merged two cultural icons. Facing the challenge of repositioning Polaroid for younger audiences with limited marketing budgets, I leveraged this collaboration to unlock access to coveted sneakerhead and streetwear communities—transforming constrained resources into outsized cultural impact and brand relevance that traditional marketing couldn't deliver.
Design rooted in Polaroid's iconic visual DNA: Drew inspiration from the legendary OneStep camera's black-and-white aesthetic and vintage packaging, reimagining the Nike Swoosh through a light color theory lens to create the "Spectrum Swoosh"—where overlapping translucent colors reveal Polaroid's signature rainbow. Collaborated with Nike's design team to integrate thoughtful brand details including spectrum-colored laces, a red shutter button on the sole, and an embossed Polaroid frame on the heel—transforming nostalgic brand equity into contemporary streetwear appeal.
Strategic launch through authentic brand ambassadors: Partnered with Sarah Muerle (photographer and Nike SB skateboarder) and Brian Anderson (legendary pro and first openly-gay skateboarder) to launch the collaboration—two athletes whose creative and inclusive identities authentically embodied both brands' values, ensuring cultural credibility and genuine connection with target audiences.
Brian Anderson exclusive with Complex below talking about inclusivity, sneakers and creativity.
THANK YOU <3
Early concept sketch below
