Cecilie Bahnsen has put a Copenhagen spin on an Asics classic

“In designing this shoe, we wanted to explore the juxtaposition of femininity and masculinity.”

Comfortable footwear becoming in vogue is undeniably one of the best developments to ever happen in fashion. It’s been close to a decade since ‘dad sneakers’ hit Paris runways, cementing comfy shoes in our hearts and wardrobes (hopefully forever).

Sneakers have become ubiquitous, from the streets of Copenhagen to the alleys of Melbourne. However, as much as we love them, the popularity of certain styles means that over time, they can risk looking a little too similar. Luckily, Asics is here to shake things up.

For more fashion news, shoots, articles and features, head to our Fashion section.

Asics SportStyle is launching The Signature Series, a new initiative that reinvents archival styles by collaborating with creatives from around the world.  Each capsule will reinterpret designs through the lens of ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body,’ balancing the joys of beauty and movement in a single collection.

First up is acclaimed Danish designer Cecilie Bahnsen. Known for her feminine, coquette aesthetic, Bahnsen is known for her ability to toe the line between seemingly opposite design philosophies. Her eponymous label, for example, is a unique blend of couture and ready-to-wear, feminine and modern, and French yet utterly Scandinavian. Her penchant for turning staple pieces into everyday couture is unmatched.

The Cecilie Bahnsen edition

This iteration of The Signature Series reintroduces the Gel-Cumulus 16 SSCB sneaker. It’s a silhouette you’ve likely seen before – a classic, comfortable, retro running shoe featuring Asics’ trademark stripes on the side. When crafted with Bahnsen’s unique aesthetic in mind, it takes on a feminine, almost coquette air. “In designing this shoe, we wanted to explore the juxtaposition of femininity and masculinity,” says Bahnsen.

The sneaker comes in three colourways (black, ivory and silver), each embodying Bahnsen’s expression of what ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ means to her. From mornings biking to her Copenhagen studio or simply taking a second to stop and appreciate beautiful design, the shoe is built for all-day, every day use.

Each sneaker is adorned with delicate floral motifs on semi-transparent mesh, contrasted by Asics’ iconic shiny stripes. Rather than traditional laces, these sneakers feature a bespoke flower lace toggle. “The inspiration came from flowers casting faint shadows in pale sunlight – a subtle, romantic visual we tried to capture through layering and texture,” Bahnsen explains. Despite the aesthetic changes, the sneaker still maintains its gel performance elements, offering essential cushioning and shock absorption.

This collaboration brings something that’s often missing from sports-style footwear: a touch of femininity that feels subdued yet exciting.

The Asics x Cecilie Bahnsen shoes will be available beginning Friday, June 27, on Asics SportStyle online and in select global retailers. Stock is limited. To get yours, head here.