Words by Fatima Barrie
An ode to her roots in South Central Los Angeles.
Los Angeles image consultant and model Aleali May, has collaborated with the Jordan Brand to drop her first shoe, the Aleali May Air Jordan 1 ’Satin Shadows’.
Popularly known on Instagram for her effortless blend of streetwear and high fashion, May is the second woman after DJ, designer, and director Vashtie, to collaborate with Jordan. The Aleali May AJ1’s come in cool gray satin and black corduroy, which represent her hometown of L.A. and “her love for Jordan satin shorts and corduroy slippers.” The satin, orange tab on the tongue, and chenille swooshes on the shoe, are inspired by the Kings and Raiders starter sport jackets.
She shares the story on how her love for Jordans developed in an exclusive interview with Air Jordan,
I was always dressing like a tomboy. I grew up around a lot of boys and always wanted to be like my Uncle G. He used to buy me all the Jordans. I used to wear Jordan satin shorts, with slip-ons and Js. I didn’t really know what I was wearing until later.
May further explains,
I wore a uniform, so my shoes had to be the standout piece. So we would go to Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw Plaza, and cop the latest Jordans. It’s always been in my DNA, I guess before I could understand it.
The Aleali May AJ1’s are available in kids and adult sizing and retail for $160.
