Kith Institution - The Black Tie 2.0

In 2008 I released my first-ever collaboration with adidas called the “Black Tie.” I worked on the Superstar, a classic silhouette I’ve always felt could be dressed up or down. I wanted a pair I could wear with a suit, so I created a triple black leather toe luxury execution. I also packaged them with a matching tie, and dropped them on Black Friday.

17 years and many adidas partnerships later, it felt like the right time to bring that concept back, this time through the lens of who I am today. I worked with the brand to craft the Black Tie 2.0 in Germany, using dress shoe quality leather, waxed laces, refined stitching on the toecap, and subtle &Kin branding on the leather footbeds and tongues. An evolved execution with the same intention. Limited pairs will release with our upcoming Kith Fall 2025 collection.

I also made special packaging for my friends and family, which includes a Julius double breasted jacket and Kylan Trouser with tonal Three Stripes appliqué, dress shirt, and black tie, all crafted from Italian 100% tropical wool. I made these boxes as an invite for something truly special…

This Sunday 8/17, we are hosting our first runway show in 6 years called INSTITUTION. I stepped away from shows because I felt the spectacle of the production started to overpower the product. And to me, product is king. But when it came to debuting our Fall/Winter 2025 collections, there was no better way than to let people experience it in person. This show will feel different from our past ones, and I cannot wait to share what the team and I have been working overtime on with you.