When NBDA entered the fashion scene in 2015, they entered with a strong visual identity of  only versatile neutral colours that could effortlessly complete diverse looks. Five years after their launch, a collaboration with PIECES initiated a slight deviation from this. Both brands came together to build a bridge between two alternative worlds and a splash of  colour was added unto NBDA’s neutral colour scheme. Over the past few years, the multidimensional footwear brand has continued to embrace a more fluid approach to fashion, softly incorporating expressive colours into its palette with collaborations and independent releases.
Colour dominates fashion statements in a way that no other feature can, so it's impressive how NBDA uses colour as a tool to reform a products' character. The expansion of  their tonal orientation transformed the Technical Slides V11 collection from neutral pieces that complement outfits, to minimalist statement pieces to style outfits around. In late December of  2021, NBDA collaborated with Alara Lagos to create earth themed slides. The promotional product featured straps and strap tips of  burnt orange, resisting an otherwise completely neutral direction. Last year, to commemorate five years of  friendship with Street Souk, neon green velcro straps adorned fern toned slides in a cool, balanced breath of  whimsy. The most vibrant addition to the brand's colour archive till date.
Eight months before the zippy StreetSouk collaboration, NBDA announced an ‘Electric Blue’ coloured pair of  slides, marking their first deviation from its usual neutral tone with an independent collection. The line sold out shortly after its release. This week, the colour choice for their latest offering strikes a unique charm; a dark purple hue that blends with the V11 collection design in flawless harmony. A seemingly intentional juxtaposition from its austere visual origins, the new drop uses colour to celebrate ‘elegance and mystery’.
For NBDA, this introduction of  a varied colour scheme opens the door into a world of  options for their devoted community to connect with. It's exciting to consider how the brand will manipulate this new direction. Does the Grapefruit drop confirm the emergence of  a colourful product design spree? Will NBDA completely abandon the old neutral palette for brighter colours and bolder tones in their coming collections? Or is NBDA simply curating its own product colour spectrum as an evolving brand? Regardless of  whatever path they choose to take, it's refreshing to watch the brands growth through an exploration of  hues as they continue to carve a name for themselves in the dynamic world of  fashion.
