Cecilie Bahnsen presents the sixth chapter of her collaboration with ASICS SportStyle: The GEL-KAYANO 20.

First unveiled on the runway during the Autumn/Winter 2025 show in Paris, the design builds on the signature language of the collaboration, blending functional performance with feminine aesthetics.

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The model evolves Bahnsen’s original Mary Jane silhouette, reimagining it with sculptural detailing and a half-tongue construction.

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Inspired by a visit to the ASICS archive in Kobe, Cecilie drew from a 2005 marathon tabi shoe, incorporating its asymmetrical lacing system and D-ring hardware.

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The result is a hybrid of past and future: a technical trainer with couture-like sophistication.

‍“This is a new take on the original ASICS Mary Jane we designed, but something more sculptural, with even more contrast,” says Cecilie Bahnsen. “I loved the asymmetrical lacing from the marathon tabi, and could immediately imagine it with our signature flower detailing used as lace locks”.

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A key feature of the design is the floral “cage” — a three-dimensional structure crafted from Cecilie Bahnsen’s signature flower motif.

Combined with ASICS’ signature stripe, reflective threads, and contrasting overlays, the design creates a dynamic interplay of structure and softness, exposure and concealment. Strategically placed openings reveal underlying layers, adding a sense of lightness and depth to the silhouette.

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The GEL-KAYANO 20 comes in two colorways: Olive and Vanilla/Pure Silver. The olive-colored version features a lightweight, transparent mesh with metallic floral print, reflective laces and shiny silver details, contrasted by matte and shiny surfaces.

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The Vanilla/Pure Silver version combines a natural-colored linen finish with shiny black floral no-sew overlays and silver accents — a perfect balance of softness and structure, in the style of Bahnsen.

Both versions are built on the original GEL-KAYANO 20 sole, featuring ASICS’ trusted GEL technology and TRUSSTIC system for all-day comfort and support.

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Shot on the streets of Paris, the campaign captures the interplay of movement, form, and athleticism. At its center is contortionist Heejin Diamond, whose choreographed poses embody the poetic tension between strength and fragility.

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Sculptural clothing meets the dynamic energy of ASICS Footwear — each image pays homage to the dialogue between Bahnsen's romantic aesthetics and the technical precision of ASICS.

The worldwide release of the Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 20 will take place on May 16 at select retailers such as AFEW, Asphaltgold and VooStore.

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Photos via ASICS