M.I.S.S. Project: Keds

America’s first national athletic and lifestyle footwear brand, Keds, hasn’t been around since 1916 without pleasing the masses. Their Spring/Summer 2010 collection definitely packs it in with something for everyone, from your best friend’s dorky parents to the hipsters that you often confuse for homeless people. There is a series with Oxford stripes made from men’s wear shirting fabric, a series made of linen, a Tyvek trump l’oeil slip on, and even super soft enzyme washed sneakers that when slipped on should feel like you’ve been kicking around in them for ages.

Keds Linen

Enzyme Wash

Trump L'oeil

If that the new fabrics and finishes weren’t enough for you, Keds  has teamed up with Opening Ceremony to introduce a line of their classic lace ups with a bandana print and toggle closures on the laces.  According to the Opening Ceremony site the collection is inspired by America, hence the denim, nautical influences on the laces, and use of primary colors.

Keds x Opening Ceremony

In addition to the fly takes on old classics, Keds also has offerings for those of us trying to do the right thing by the environment. Keds green line features nickel free eyelets, organic fabrics, and pvc free soles.

Keds Green Line

All of this awesomeness crammed into one collection assures that Keds will definitely be around for well over another 93 years.

With the recent surge in going Green, a lot of designers and businesses have felt the pressure to take a second look at the way they manufacture their products. Jill Danyelle, Fashion Editor of Inhabitat.com, interviewed Una Kim of Keep Footwear and Kim’s honest answers about her company’s production are very refreshing.

When asked about their plans, Kim answered, “Our plan is to try and make it to the next season!�

I’m sure every designer can relate to that!

Read the interview HERE.
Shop Keep Footwear HERE.