Australian athleisure brand THE UPSIDE and creators of the quintessential tennis shoe Volley, have teamed up to design special-edition heritage shoes that can be stylishly worn on and off the court.
THE UPSIDE's Founder & Creative Director Jodhi Meares passionately brought to life the collaboration, saying, "Volleys conjure up so many great memories for me. Your school shoes came off and your Volleys came on, signifying good times, fun times."
The design progresses THE UPSIDE's distinct heritage and retro feel, with the prominent 3-stripe detail on the signature Volley heel-tape and custom "Volley Up" logo.
THE UPSIDE X Volley shoes sit perfectly alongside an elevated tennis capsule by THE UPSIDE, launching at the same time.
Originally developed more than 80 years ago by Grand Slam pioneer Adrian Quist and worn by tennis royalty through decades of major tournaments, Volleys gained popularity for their extreme comfort and practical design.
"Tennis has a timeless appeal that definitely lends itself to reinterpretation, however there's a sense that with a new, emerging rollcall of young, exciting and highly watchable tennis players, that tennis is exciting again and attracting an entirely new audience, bringing tennis into the lifestyle-centric-wear realm rather than just performance wear," says Volley's Content & Marketing Manager, Anna Geason.
Made in the original lightweight cotton canvas, reinforced toe cap for stability, as well as gum sole with herringbone pattern for traction and grip, the features are synonymous with a shoe that's become a staple in Australian wardrobes and treasured fashion piece.
THE UPSIDE's capsule aims to inspire a space where tennis fashion meets function, the wearer can transition their pieces, or instantly style their outfit to post-play activities, representing individual style.
"People are looking at healthier, better ways to spend their time. Tennis is a beautiful, social way to spend a Saturday afternoon, it's another activity you can add into your wellness routine that's fun too, because it's playful," Meares says.
A tennis wardrobe to envy, the capsule serves up a classic trio of red, white and navy fabrics, and reminisces the golden era with nostalgic nuances and 70s silhouettes. Of note are the V-necks, a classic training top silhouette inspired by the elegance of the sport, as well as the statement crochet fabric adding undeniable, vintage glamour.
The collection features moisture-wicking performance pieces in cotton pique, 4-way stretch peached fabrics in high-waisted skorts and dresses, and care-free, joyful, flouncy pleats, sure to make the tennis season one of enjoyment.
"Fashion can definitely facilitate a feeling of escapism, but it can also be as simple as wearing something which makes you feel good," says Geason.
THE UPSIDE X VOLLEY shoes are vegan and available exclusively at theupside.com.au, volley.com.au and Stylerunner.
Consumers can also view the collaboration at Volley's Australian Open stand, which is open to the public for the duration of the tennis event in January.
THE UPSIDE X Volley
Heritage High Volley Up - $89.99 RRP
THE UPSIDE X Volley
Heritage Low Volley Up- $79.99 RRP
About us:
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Founded by Jodhi Meares in 2013 THE UPSIDE is grounded by an authentic love of yoga, spirituality, and our beautiful blue planet. THE UPSIDE layers the eclectic cool of Bondi, with the electric energy of New York City and the free spirit of Oahu's North Shore. Placing equal emphasis on both fashion and function, THE UPSIDE's signature use of print brings colour, variety and cool to its performance-calibre pieces while staying true to the brands core values of peace, balance, and integrity. With over 120 stockists globally and three standalone retail stores, THE UPSIDE'S wholesale, retail, and online footprint extends far and wide cementing the brand as a leader in the Global athleisure space.
