One-on-One: Kristen Black

Images by: @thecamp0ut

We have always preached that creativity is about connecting things (and people). Whether that be personal experiences or a beacon for artistic expressions, sneakers have created a universal language that the world is paying attention to more and more. We were so excited to witness the creativity that the ladies were serving up on the Nike By You platform this go ‘round. New York is a special place for sneakHER culture and the roots run deep when it comes to kicks, music, and street art.

We knew that one woman wasn’t new to this. Kristen Black has not only been in the sneaker game for years, she also designed sneakers last year with Nike x Cultivator. Her attention to details speaks to the love she has for Queens, NY and her collection. Her sneakers are truly an extension of her larger than life personality, even while she keeps a level of anonymity on social media. She didn’t hold back with this design and colorway. We have proof - as pictures started surfacing with the QUEEN Serena Williams’ rocking KB’s design last week.

I can say that I’m inspired by her authenticity to the game, but more importantly, her want to empower other women to be the best version of themselves while not giving up on their dreams. CNK got the opportunity to vibe with Kristen and learn more about her background, her view on the culture, and her FYE Air Max 270 React.

THE 411 ON KRISTEN BLACK…

I am a dance teacher choreographer from Queens, New York. I’m a sneaker enthusiast, and that is my passion or “hobby”. My family owns a dance studio in Queens, we all dance, We are nationals champions, and in July i won choreographer of the year.

CONCRETE JUNGLE WHERE DREAMS ARE MADE OF.

I have always been strong willed, and always marched to the beat of my own drum.  My style is definitely tomboy, I have a few moments here and there, but mostly grew up loving dance and sports (always playing with the boys). I’m a true New Yorker through and through and everything is organic. From the way I dress, to the way I act, to the way I feel. New York is in me. 

THE ‘INF4M0US’ SNEAKHER BLUEPRINT.

I was chosen back last summer when I did the October drop with them [Nike + Cultivator]. After that drop was completed, they reached out to me to see if I would be interested in doing it again. Of course I said yes and was super excited because I love to design sneakers.

This time they only gave us one model and it was comprised of 3 shoes. I liked the 270 React because I knew there was a lot I could do with it. There’s lots a paneling and options and I felt like I could really have fun. It’s totally me, I love bright colors , I love the color pops, and I love being original. I’m very outspoken, but really chill at the same time. The black in the shoe tones it down and brings it all together to makes sense.

CONNECTING EXPERIENCES TO CREATING PRODUCT IS KEY…

It’s everything. I feel like when it’s genuine and real, it resonates more with people because they can relate.

KRISTEN ON HER DESIGN SPEAKING TO THE LADIES…

I always feel like being true to yourself will always guide you on the right path. I’m so connected to sneakers, so passionate about it, and no matter what anyone says I always go by how I feel or what I want. I want people to look at it and say I never seen that done before, seeing the shoes in a new light. It’s such a fun shoe that matches so much. I want them to make women feel fly and sporty.

“I hope to inspire many more women to not follow trends, but set them.”

“WATCH THE BREAKDOOOWN”

I have 2 amazing co-hosts that are passionate about kicks. I’m the only girl so sometimes it’s hard to get a word in, but I learned to insert myself. It’s a weekly show where we talk about what sneakers are dropping. We also talk about things going on in the community and answer viewers’ questions. It’s on every Thursday at 8 pm. It’s just like three friends hanging out talking about sneakers.

KRISTEN ON WOMEN MOVING THE CULTURE FORWARD…

It’s such a tricky thing. This industry is dominated by mostly men. It’s hard for us to get the recognition we deserve. I really think we all need to stick together and lift each other up. When one of us does something great, we need to support. It’s hard enough with all the men. We need to respect ourselves and we all can be great.

Image: Serena William’s in Kristen’s sneaker

WHAT DOES SNEAKHER CULTURE MEAN TO YOU?

My passion for sneakers has been frowned upon and laughed out. It means everything to me to be able to show my students that dreams can be a reality, no matter who puts you down. I hope to inspire many more women to not follow trends, but set them. Break boundaries, push until they have to notice you. Be true to you.

Kristen’s sneakers are available for $180 USD via our shopping button below. Connect more with Kristen through her Instagram HERE.