Salvation Army Snubs Balenciaga’s Ruined Shoes With ‘Truly Destroyed’ Kicks

Earlier this month, Balenciaga launched a limited-edition run of tattered sneakers, taking the idea of crisp, chic kicks and rendering them scuffed and distressed to suggest that they are “meant to be worn for a lifetime.” 

While the less damaged versions were being sold for US$495 and US$625, exclusive 100 pairs of “extra destroyed” sneakers were going at a staggering US$1,850. Yup, nearly two grand for torn shoes.

In response, the Dutch Salvation Army, in collaboration with fashion photographer Carli Hermès, has come up with its own torn and tattered “truly destroyed” shoes—but in this case, it isn’t just a fashion statement. 

Rather than sneakers that have been roughed-up on purpose, the campaign features pairs of kicks that have actually been worn by people living out on the streets for months and years on end. 

Thamar Keuning, a Marketing and Communications Officer at The Dutch Salvation Army, told Baller Alert that while the creativity seen in high fashion is to be lauded, it’s “sometimes at odds” with how everyday people perceive the function of clothing.

By bringing attention to the destroyed shoes of homeless people, the campaign hopes to “literally and symbolically” reflect the disparity and juxtaposition between reality and the opulent high-fashion industry. 

Eight pairs of “truly destroyed” shoes are up for sale at €1,450 (US$1,560) each, with all proceeds going towards the organization’s cause to help those in need rebuild their lives from the ground up. 

[via Baller Alert and The Dutch Salvation Army, images via The Dutch Salvation Army]