Nike x Isamaya Ffrench

Since launching her eponymous brand in 2022, Isamaya Ffrench has redefined beauty norms with her controversial and avant-garde approach. Her brand, ISAMAYA, blends art, innovation, and inclusivity, challenging conventional notions of beauty. With a decade of experience at the forefront of the industry, Ffrench has collaborated with major fashion publications, including Vogue and W, and held pivotal consultancy roles at Tom Ford, YSL, and Christian Louboutin.

Her work consistently pushes boundaries, as seen in her collaborations with Byredo on their iconic makeup collection and her tenure as Global Beauty Director of Burberry Beauty.

Since launching her eponymous brand in 2022, Isamaya Ffrench has redefined beauty norms, blending art, innovation, and inclusivity in her avant-garde approach.

Nike has long been a pioneer in creating iconic collaborations that transcend sports and fashion. This time, the legendary sportswear brand ventures into new territory by partnering with acclaimed makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench, founder of Isamaya Beauty. Together, they have crafted a collaboration: two exclusive colorways of the Nike Air Max Dn, aptly named “Deep Brown” and “Nude.”

Beauty can Meet Sportswear

While Nike has previously explored high-fashion partnerships with fashion and luxury brands like Jacquemus, Sacai, and Off-White, this marks a bold pivot toward the beauty world. The partnership emphasising the growing influence of female athletes as style and culture icons.

Isamaya drew inspiration from her work with women athletes to conceptualize the designs.

The authentic design with a beauty Twist

The Nike Air Max Dn x Isamaya Ffrench sneakers stand out not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their thoughtful design. Available in Nude neutral striking tones of Ffrench’s makeup range. The muted palette is balanced by intricate detailing and textures, making these shoes a statement piece.

The Nike Air Max Dn x Isamaya Ffrench collaboration showcases the intersection of beauty and sportswear, with designs inspired by women athletes and Ffrench’s mastery of color and texture.

 

Her favorite design elements are the rand and heel, which feature metallic tones beneath glossy acrylic layers, creating a striking contrast against the matte upper and sole. This interplay of textures mirrors the artistry she brings to makeup, where bold textures and subtle hues coexist harmoniously.

Beyond aesthetics, the Air Max Dn leverages cutting-edge technology. Its dual-chamber, four-tubed Nike Air unit delivers maximum bounce and comfort, ensuring that style doesn’t come at the expense of performance.

A Rising Trend? Sports and Beauty Intertwined

The Nike x Isamaya Ffrench collaboration arrives amid a broader trend of sports brands partnering with beauty icons. Glossier’s recent partnership with the WNBA, K18’s selection of Simone Biles as a brand ambassador, and Charlotte Tilbury’s collaboration with F1 Academy all underscore the synergy between sports and beauty. These partnerships not only celebrate athleticism but also highlight the growing recognition of athletes as powerful influencers in the beauty and fashion spaces.

It’s humbling to create pieces that empower women to feel confident, perform at their peak, and define their own authentic creativity.”
— Isamaya Ffrench

 

Isamaya Ffrench’s expertise in color and texture, honed through years of groundbreaking work in the beauty industry, makes her a natural fit for this trend. Her contributions extend beyond this collaboration; her portfolio includes visionary roles at Christian Louboutin, Byredo, Burberry Beauty, and Off-White. She has also worked with global icons like Rihanna, Madonna, Bella Hadid, and Kendall Jenner, cementing her status as a trailblazer in both beauty and fashion.

Beauty industry empowering Women

One of the most compelling aspects of this collaboration is its focus on empowering women. Ffrench’s designs are informed by her interactions with female athletes, whose strength and creativity inspired her to create footwear that marries functionality with self-expression:

“It has been inspiring, working with athletes throughout this journey with Nike — and humbling to feel that the things I am creating help these women feel good and give them confidence to perform at their peak and define their own authentic creativity in expression,” Ffrench said.

The collaboration aligns with Nike’s broader mission of celebrating and supporting women in sports. By spotlighting female athletes and their stories, Nike and Ffrench are fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment that transcends traditional gender norms in sportswear.

Nike and Isamaya Ffrench are challenging traditional industry boundaries and redefining what collaboration can look like. This venture celebrates the artistry and innovation of both partners.