MATTIAS GOLLIN X VANS: AUTHENTIC DESIGN FEATURES 2,000 GEMS

Summary:

• Designer Mattias Gollin transforms Vans Authentic with hand-applied pearl, gold, and black beads
• Each pair requires eight hours of work and uses roughly 2,000 gems applied in Italy
• Shoes release December 5 at $750 USD through appointment-only purchase system

Designer Mattias Gollin has worked with Vans to create a modified version of the Authentic silhouette. The project applies Gollin's signature aesthetic to the shoe. Gollin has used this gem-application technique across multiple previous works.

The design builds on Vans' Checkerboard pattern. White squares on the shoe receive hand-applied pearl and gold beads in different sizes. Black beads cover the darker sections of the pattern. This approach creates texture across the surface.

Production of each pair takes about eight hours. Workers apply roughly 2,000 gems by hand at a facility in Italy. The time investment reflects the labor-intensive nature of the process.

Gollin's name appears on the tongue and insoles. The text uses serif lettering. These details mark the collaboration between the designer and the footwear brand.

The shoes will be available for purchase on December 5. Buyers need to schedule an appointment through Mattias Gollin's website. No retail stores will carry the shoes. The price is $750 USD per pair.

This collaboration brings together Vans' classic shoe design with Gollin's decorative style. The Authentic silhouette has been part of Vans' lineup for decades. Gollin adds his method of surface decoration to the existing template.

The bead application changes how the shoe looks and feels. The gems add weight and alter the texture of the upper material. This modification transforms the typical canvas construction of the Authentic model.

Gollin has built his reputation through projects that add embellishments to existing designs. His work involves placing small decorative elements onto surfaces in specific patterns. This Vans collaboration follows that approach.

The Checkerboard pattern provides a structure for the bead placement. Each square receives a specific color of bead. This creates a clear visual separation between light and dark areas. The pattern remains recognizable despite the added material.

Hand application of the beads takes place at a production facility in Italy. Workers place each gem individually. This method requires precision and attention to detail. The eight-hour production time per pair reflects this manual process.

The gems come in three color options: pearl, gold, and black. The pearl and gold beads go on white squares. Black beads cover the darker sections. The size of the beads varies across the shoe. This variation adds visual interest to the surface.

The $750 USD price point reflects the production cost and limited availability. The appointment-only sales model restricts access to the shoes. This approach differs from standard retail releases.

Gollin's serif lettering appears as a signature element on the tongue and insoles. This branding identifies the collaboration. The text style adds a formal quality to the design.

The collaboration demonstrates how designers adapt existing silhouettes. Vans provides the base shoe structure. Gollin applies his decorative technique to that foundation. The result combines elements from both parties.

Images of the shoes show the bead coverage across the upper. The Checkerboard pattern remains visible through the gem application. The contrast between light and dark sections comes through in the final product.

Purchase requires scheduling through the official Mattias Gollin website. No walk-in sales will occur. This system controls distribution and maintains the limited nature of the release.