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Orbiting hue and symbolism that, over the years, have been reclaimed and historically repurposed by the LGBTQ community, Nike this week debuts its BETRUE 2018 collection featuring new silhouettes all released over the past 12 months.
Seen through the Nike Vapormax Plus, Nike Air Max 270, Nike Zoom Fly and the Nike Epic React, each shoe is marked by a binding Lavender median. A smartly stated matrimony of light blue and light pink, lavender is one of the oldest references to the LGBTQ community with historical connotations that date back to the 1970’s. Lavender is a unique universal language almost spoken in silence, quietly embedded in garments and other cultural signifiers.
In addition, the lavender representation is joined by rainbow expression on the Vapormax Plus and the Air Max 270, respectively. Both styles denote individually dyed airbags showcasing a six-color spectrum. Further, the Zoom Fly SP upholds a muted rainbow colorway on its translucent upper. Another unifier is the pink triangle — a somewhat complex historical reference that helped identify LGBTQ individuals during WWII.
The Nike BETRUE 2018 Collection, which also features an accompanying set of tees, socks, a hat and a heritage hip pack, releases on June 6 at select retailers and Nike.com.
Nike BETRUE 2018 Collection
Release Date: June 6, 2018