Sotheby’s, the prestigious auction house, recently wrapped up the sale of a collection of sneakers from the highly anticipated collaboration between Virgil Abloh, the artistic director of Louis Vuitton, and Nike, the American sportswear brand. The auction, named the Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 auction, held at Sotheby’s, surpassed all expectations by raking in an impressive $25.3 million in total sales.
The auction, which commenced on January 26th, showcased 200 pairs of Nike Air Force 1 sneakers that were reimagined by Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2022 Men’s show. The collaboration aimed to merge the iconic basketball shoe’s aesthetic with Vuitton’s distinctive codes and Italian leather craftsmanship, resulting in highly sought-after footwear.
Several factors contributed to the immense demand for these sneakers at the auction. Firstly, the recent passing of Virgil Abloh, a prominent figure known for bridging the gap between streetwear and luxury fashion, added to the appeal and sentimental value of his collaboration with Nike. Additionally, the Air Force 1 model was celebrating its 20th anniversary, making it even more desirable among collectors.
The surge in online auctions, driven by the Covid-19 pandemic’s digital shift, has attracted a younger demographic of bidders. A notable 44% of Sotheby’s digital bidders were under the age of 40, indicating the growing interest among the younger generation in luxury sneaker collectibles. Magali Teisseire, the Head of Jewelry and Watches Department at Sotheby’s, acknowledges the allure of sneakers as an attractive category for this younger audience.
In accordance with Virgil Abloh’s vision, the proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund, which aims to provide educational opportunities. This philanthropic initiative exemplifies Abloh’s commitment to nurturing and supporting the next generation of creatives and innovators.
The outstanding success of the Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 auction at Sotheby’s highlights the enduring allure of limited-edition sneakers in the luxury market. It also underscores the impact of collaborations between high-fashion brands and sportswear giants, as they continue to captivate fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Useful Links:
1. [Sotheby’s Auction Catalog](https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2022/louis-vuitton-x-nike-air-force-1-collection-virgil-abloh)
2. [Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund](https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/53752)
