Gianni Versace, the founder of the legendary fashion house, Versace, is known for his bold and flamboyant designs that have been worn by some of the biggest names in fashion and entertainment. While he passed away tragically in 1997, his legacy lives on through the brand that he created.
One of the most popular and recognizable designs from the house is the Versace Chain Reaction sneaker. In this article, we will take a closer look at who designed this iconic shoe.
The Birth of the Chain Reaction
The Versace Chain Reaction sneaker was first introduced in 2018 as part of the brand’s Spring/Summer collection. This shoe was an instant hit among sneaker enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike due to its unique design and striking appearance.
The shoe features a chunky sole with a chain-link design that runs along its length. The upper part of the shoe is made up of a mix of materials such as mesh, leather, and rubber, which gives it a distinctive look. The shoe also features a lace-up closure with oversized laces that add to its bold aesthetic.
The Designer Behind the Shoe
The man behind the design of the Versace Chain Reaction sneaker is Salehe Bembury. Bembury is an American footwear designer who has worked with several other big names in fashion such as Cole Haan and Greats before joining Versace as their Head of Sneakers in 2016.
Bembury’s design philosophy focuses on creating shoes that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional and comfortable to wear. He draws inspiration from various sources such as nature, architecture, and his personal experiences to create unique designs that stand out from the crowd.
The Inspiration Behind the Chain Reaction
When designing the Chain Reaction sneaker for Versace, Bembury drew inspiration from several sources. One of the main sources of inspiration was the brand’s iconic Medusa logo, which is featured prominently on the shoe.
Bembury also took inspiration from his childhood memories of growing up in New York City. He wanted to create a shoe that reflected the energy and vibrancy of the city while also incorporating elements of luxury and high fashion.
The Impact of the Chain Reaction
Since its release, the Versace Chain Reaction sneaker has become one of the most popular designs from the brand. It has been worn by several high-profile celebrities such as Drake, Kylie Jenner, and Migos.
The shoe’s popularity can be attributed to its unique design, which stands out from other chunky sneakers in the market. Its combination of luxury materials and streetwear-inspired design has made it a favorite among fashion enthusiasts who are always on the lookout for something new and exciting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Salehe Bembury is the designer behind one of Versace’s most popular sneakers – the Chain Reaction. His unique design philosophy and sources of inspiration have helped create a shoe that is not only visually striking but also comfortable to wear. The impact that this shoe has had on the fashion industry is a testament to Bembury’s talent as a designer and his ability to create something truly unique.