Cole Haan joins hands with Asian American artist to empower women globally

In honour of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage month, US footwear brand Cole Haan has collaborated with designer and illustrator Sophia Chang to launch a women's-exclusive collection that invites women everywhere to own their own style.

As a second generation Asian American, Chang finds it important to write her own narrative, which for her, means owning her own style, according to the release. She credits her community and the sights, sounds, and smells of New York City for providing a rich palette for her artistic aspirations. As an ode to her style, Chang designed this collection for the woman who isn't afraid of colour or making a statement. The collection represents an extension of that idea through the use of vivid colour, modern innovation and bold style in patterns that can be dressed up or dressed down.

This special-edition collection is made up of three styles within Cole Haan's existing women's line; the Grand Ambition York Pump which delivers a sophisticated look with its modern sculptural block heel and sleek silhouette, the GrandPrø Topspin Sneaker, a classic court sneaker, as well as the functional and roomy Grand Ambition Convertible Luxe Backpack. Both footwear styles feature Cole Haan's innovation for unparalleled comfort.

All of them contain Sophia's whimsical images, which were brought to life on the shoes and bag by laser etching and silkscreen printing. The usually neutral colour scheme is punctuated by gold and scarlet elements, which were inspired by a spectacular summer sunset.

“I was very inspired by the creative direction of this collection,” said Chang, designer and illustrator behind the collaboration. “As this is my third time collaborating with Cole Haan, I felt very comfortable working with their team and really enjoyed the process of taking their iconic women’s styles that are already known and loved to a new level.”

Commenting on the collaboration, David Maddocks, brand president of Cole Haan, said, “We are delighted to be working with Sophia Chang to celebrate this fantastic capsule collection made to inspire and empower women.” 

“Inspiring women has been at the forefront of Cole Haan’s mission since the very beginning. Sophia not only embodies this, but also relates to women who value self-expression which makes her the perfect partner to bring this capsule to life,” he added.

The Cole Haan x Sophia Chang offering is available now on ColeHaan.com and selected US, Japan and international stores.

This was not the first time Cole Haan features Chang in its campaigns. Back in November 2022, Chang was in the brand’s “Work For What You Believe In” campaign. The campaign stars an array of inspirational, real-life changemakers who serve as the inspiration behind the products made to support work, play, and the everyday moments that matter. 

In the campaign, Chang shared how creativity and imagination is the backbone of her life as an illustrator. Through storytelling, she brings her creations to life. Throughout the video, Chang is seen wearing Cole Haan’s products in her studio, highlighting Chang in her home studio and discuss what keeps her inspired in her workspace. 

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