[last man standing x nike AAE]: a j.xyz editorial.

fyi: this is a sponsored post in partnership with nike.

this year, i made a decision to change how i walk and work in the world. from the way i approach my projects to the thought i put into getting dressed, i want to get back to a phrase that i used to define my life by:

live editorially.

so when i got a first look at the new nike AAE line, the wheels in my head immediately started spinning. one of these days, i plan on creating a capsule collection that perfectly embodies my core style and i found so many parallels with this new assortment. first, the aesthetic is simple and clean, while at the same time feels totally edgy and even futuristic. and the sportiness is very present but expertly balanced with such a level of fashion that makes it something i'm truly excited to add to my wardrobe—i’ve honestly never been more impressed by fashion pieces from a traditionally more sportswear-focused brand partner.

from a creative standpoint, i wanted to lean into that futuristic edge i mentioned before as i worked on this partnership, and it got me thinking of a world far different from the one we’re in today…

something familiar but foreign, a place that felt like home but desolate in nature.

looking at the head-to-toe look, i felt like an explorer, dropped into a new environment—not sure if he’s lost or on the brink of discovery. i instantly knew the perfect location: noho, on the periphery of nyu, a secret little spot that’s been one of my favorite places to shoot for years. from there, i had some fun.

check out more of the shots below…

getting back to the collection, there’s nothing like pieces that offer an elevated sense of fashion with functionality to match. to start, each piece is extremely comfortable, from the fit to the quality of the materials. additionally, i’ve shared before how much i LOVE pockets, and the line offers more than enough storage space, be it through removable back pouches that echo fanny packs or permanent fixtures on the front of the vest.

and finally, my underlayer up top is not only finished with a unique three-finger sleeve, but there’s a break at the wrists to keep you connected to your smartwatch or fitness tracker at all times, and the shorts offer an awesome double layer that minimizes the chill, adds comfort, and looks really nice. without question, a lot of care and attention to detail were put into the design process and it shows.

while the concept and creative were relatively easy to bring to life, it was so exciting getting back to this sort of storytelling. it makes the whole game fun again, a feeling that i felt was absent for a large part of 2019. i’m pumped to start living editorially again, and can’t wait to share more style stories with you guys in the months ahead.

if you love what you’ve seen of the nike AAE line as much as i do, click here to shop these pieces and more. -j