204L "Icy Reconstructed"

For this project, I applied the same concept as used for the "Golden Reconstructed" project, reimagining the New Balance 204L through a radical structural transformation to give the silhouette an entirely new aesthetic and presence.The process began by fully removing the original sole unit, reducing the shoe to its upper. Built entirely from suede, the base provided the perfect foundation for a deep material treatment. I applied a specialized dye chosen for its ability to fully saturate suede, resulting in a cold icy blue tone. The color was absorbed evenly while still allowing subtle variations across the different panels, enhancing the depth and character of the upper while creating a frozen, almost glacial visual outcome.As the original sole left visible adhesive marks, a small suede patch was stitched onto the front area to cover and integrate this section into the overall design.To redefine the construction, a vegetable tanned leather frame in a natural tone was introduced, adding both structure and contrast. This was paired with a lightweight EVA midsole and finished with a Vibram outsole, shifting the shoe into a more robust, grounded, and expressive form.The final touch comes through a set of vintage style laces with a subtle waxed finish, tying the concept together and reinforcing the balance between craft, materiality, and a more rugged visual language.