If there’s a tunnel walk, New York Knicks’ Jordan Clarkson is making it his runway. The NBA star’s athleticism and accomplishments on the court are certainly worthy of praise, but so is his one-of-a-kind style. And luckily, ALDO has taken note. The classic footwear brand tapped Clarkson to curate a selection of footwear and accessories emblematic of the athlete’s penchant for fearless fashion exploration, inviting others to unleash their creativity through daring, unfiltered self-expression.
With the rise of cowboy core and the comeback appeal of timeless fashion staples, such as the city-certified loafer, the ALDO collection curated by Jordan Clarkson channels contemporary trends without compromising on craftsmanship. Maintaining urban sensibilities that translate from the office to the streets, its footwear options forgo conventionality in place of statement-making silhouettes — a nod to Clarkson’s bold, enigmatic energy. And what’s more daring than a man in a heel — a Cuban heel, to be exact?
In conversation with Hypebeast, Clarkson opens up about his partnership with ALDO and what it means for the brand to spotlight him as a trendsetting aesthete. “There’s a lot of noise in the footwear world, a lot of trend chasing. But what I love about ALDO is their look has always been steady and tasteful, giving people who care about fashion what they need to look good, and letting them bring the products to life with their own personal style,” mentions Clarkson. “This partnership means a lot to me because they trusted me to see the brand through my vision, and it just so happened that we have a lot in common. Our style is multifaceted – sometimes it’s understated, other times intentional, other times it’s turning heads.”
Drafted in 2016 by the Washington Wizards and currently signed to the New York Knicks, Clarkson has made a household name for himself in a league defined by perseverance and excellent showmanship. Asked what memorable moments have defined his game, he mentions: “When you’re playing all the time, it can be hard to pinpoint one exact moment because the season moves so fast. But when I do get a chance to slow down and reflect, what stands out most are the moments that showed how much I’ve grown – both in my game and as a person.”
Off the court, the 2021 NBA 6th Man of The Year baller is nothing less than a showstopper. Known for his signature braids, black nail polish and refined, head-to-toe designer threads, Clarkson epitomizes modern tastes. There are no rules, just self-expression, and the more authentic, the better. In partnership with ALDO, the athlete’s edgy persona invites new interpretations of how to style the brand’s signature footwear. With Clarkson as the muse, the collaboration champions a new fashion vanguard and a cohort of young creatives and professionals who value fashion as a celebration of identity.
And for Clarkson, the magic is in the details. “Each outfit needs a different finishing touch to feel complete,” says the athlete. “Whether that’s a bag, a statement jacket, a sock, or a chain – I always look for one item that’s going to draw eyes and spark a conversation or make me feel more put together.”
Highlights of the curation include “Guthrie,” a western-inspired boot with textured cowhide skin and a chunky block heel, available in “Pony” and “Black” colorways. The all-black version of “Guthrie” illuminates the shoe’s intricate embroidery at the back shaft while “Pony”‘s unique tonal pattern offers visual flair. The 1950s-style, rockabilly-inspired “Buckley” loafers feature contrast topstitching and a classic two-tone leather rendering emphasized by a contrast white overlay at the tongue. “Zollo” is a slip-on loafer style in a black monochromatic makeup, adorned with spiky, silver-toned hardware along the tongue and topline. “Rocco” delivers a chunky lace-up silhouette with an embroidered pattern engulfing the toecap. Appealing to a professional set, the all-black leather “Bruguu” and suede “Hildebradd” briefcases round out the curation, amplifying the brand’s business-to-play versatility.
“Guthrie” is a go-to of Clarkson’s, currently in rotation during the globetrotter’s travels. “The cow print boot is my personal favorite – I’m sporting this pair in Texas, New York City, even in Paris. It’s a staple,” says Clarkson. Other footwear options, such as the “Doublezero” boots in khaki and black suede color options, prioritize daily utility and seasonal flexibility, reiterating the collection’s seamless transition throughout the year. “My style is very versatile. I get inspired by new trends and new designers all the time, and so I look for footwear that can either keep a look grounded, or bring something extra to elevate it,” adds Clarkson. “This collection does both. The styles are clean – a loafer or cowboy boot that you’ll want to wear over and over again – but designed with just the right amount of ‘different.’”
In the accompanying campaign lookbook, Clarkson pairs the “Rocco” loafers with a suave shirt-and-vest duo and wide-leg denim. In another chic, all-indigo denim ensemble, the “Guthrie” boots in the “Pony” colorway add a pop of visual dimension. “I just truly enjoy expressing myself through fashion,” says Clarkson. “Everyone has their own vibe, their own individuality when it comes to style, and that’s what makes it fun to watch.”
See the ALDO collection curated by Jordan Clarkson in the galleries above. To browse styles worn by Clarkson, visit ALDO’s website.
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