Vans presents the next chapter of the premium Old Skool Music Collection — featuring groundbreaking artist and Vans brand ambassador Little Simz and Vans skater Helena Long. The campaign shows what influence this iconic silhouette still has on the music and skateboarding scene today.

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Inspired by the combination of tradition and innovation, the Premium Old Skool Music Collection continues to inspire a new generation of cultural pioneers and shapes the development of style, comfort and individual expression.

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The Style 36 — now known as Old Skool — was first released in 1977 and was the second skate shoe Vans ever released. At the same time, it was the first model with the legendary sidestripe, which is still the visual trademark of Vans today.

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Originally designed for the pioneers of skateboarding, the Old Skool has become an icon far beyond the skate scene — particularly in the underground music scene.

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Vans is now honoring this inseparable connection with the Premium Old Skool Music Collection, which comprises three exclusive capsules inspired by different periods and genres of music.

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The campaign was filmed in Johannesburg, South Africa, during a visit by Little Simz for their headlining appearance at the House of Vans. Together with Helena Long, she staged the campaign — behind the camera was Fenn O'Meally, a close friend and long-time collaborator with Simz.

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Returning to the musical sphere last week with her new single “Flood”- Little Simz has been part of the Vans family officially since 2023 and in that time released her own Customs collection of Slip-Ons, featured in multiple campaigns and played the House of Vans stage in South Africa.

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The Old Skool checkerboard that Little Simz wears in the campaign is an homage to nonconformity and the rebellious spirit that has characterized Old Skool since its creation.

Thanks to high-quality materials and modern construction, the Vans Premium Old Skool Build takes the iconic model to a new level — with improved cushioning, optimised fit and design details inspired by the Vans archives. The updated silhouette offers an even more seamless fit and 30% bio-based Sola Foam ADC insoles for all-day comfort. The premium build version also features shiny sidewalls, higher Foxing tape and retro branding that is reminiscent of Vans models from the 90s.

The Premium Old Skool Music Collection (Checkerboard) has already been released. You can buy Vans at the following retailers: 43einhalb, AFEW Store, Asphaltgold, Brooklyn, SneakerTwins and SUPPA.

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Photos via VANS