Aleali May is Making Streetwear a Girl’s Game

You’ve collaborated with Nike and became the first woman to design a unisex Air Jordan. What did you set out to accomplish with that opportunity?

I just wanted to give praise to the city that raised me, Los Angeles, while fusing streetwear and sportswear in a basketball shoe. With it being unisex, I wanted to have it available for men and women because I wear both’s clothing. It also creates room for anyone to rock them with their personal style or if they’re a fan of the LA Kings or Raiders.

What did that feel like, having grown up in those sneakers?

Honestly, it’s still unreal. I hang out with family a lot and seeing my uncle, the guy who would buy me Jordans growing up, still talk about it so much just makes me feel so happy. Family is important to me and it’s definitely a dream to design one.

What do the Air Jordans represent to you?

Air Jordans represent the idea of working hard and smart to accomplish your goals. It’s about not giving up on your dream and never accepting defeat. Whether Michael Jordan had the flu or faced difficulties, he still pushed through and created fashion statements whenever he played. That inspires me!

Tell us more about your sneaker collection.

My sneaker collection is big! I love different colours, silhouettes, and rare pairs. Many of them were designed by friends and others I’ve bought recently because I could never get them when I was a young girl.

Interestingly, you’ve worked at both Louis Vuitton and Virgil Abloh’s RSVP gallery before Virgil joined the Maison. What do you think about his appointment?

Virgil really represents all of us, across different backgrounds, races, classes and cultures. Blending streetwear and high-end fashion gives a lot of kids inspiration that it’s not just one side or the other, you can do both. I’m so happy and I respect Louis Vuitton for making that stance.

Do you have a favourite Louis Vuitton sneaker?

The Archlight LV sneakers. I’ve worn them at the past few Louis Vuitton shows, whether it was the high top, low top or thigh high. I love pieces that look like they’re from space.

Who are your style icons?

Aaliyah, Phoebe Philo, Nigo, Pharrell, Kanye, Allen Iverson and Rick Owens.

Who would you love to collaborate with in future?

Beyoncé.

You grew up as a tomboy, but have your feelings toward feminine clothing changed recently?

As a kid, I was always into feminine clothing but never confident to wear it. I think I’m embracing who I am more, which in turn makes me feel like I can wear anything.

Speaking of changes, what are some things you think the streetwear industry could work on?

More women are being represented in streetwear as of recently. I’m excited to see what we all have in store.

How do you hope to bring about those changes yourself?

It’s about the people. It’s about doing your homework and understanding what needs to be changed or what we’d like to see more. It’s important to have dialogues with your friends and find ways to execute your ideas through your art, which in my case is design, styling and modeling. I’ve always looked for girls who looked like me, and the more we never give up on the goal and encourage one another, the more the squad glows up!

You seem to embody that “Just do it” spirit. What keeps you going?

I practice Nichiren Buddhism with the SGI, an organization founded on the concept of absolute respect for the dignity of all life. It also encourages everyone to fulfill their dreams and never accept defeat. Through this, I’ve always found strength and encouragement, so I feel so grateful. Shouts out to my mentor, Daisaku Ikeda!