Nike presents the first collection by Serena Williams Design Crew

In 2019, Serena Williams has joined forces with Nike to encourage the next generation to change the world of design through Serena Williams Design Crew (SWDC), a training program created to promote diversity in the design field. 

I wanted to see more people who look like me - Williams said about the hub, which will involve a new class of trainees each year - It all started from a conversation with Nike, which wants to invest in the power of people, and embrace diversity by promoting creativity. I'm thrilled to be a part of this project. 

The athlete selected 10 New York-based upcoming designers and asked them to create a capsule that includes footwear, apparel, accessories and is now coming to stores.

The focus of the capsule, which blends elements inspired by 90s streetstyle and the life of the tennis player, are the sneakers. Among all stand out the two models of Court Legacy, one made special by the Kente, the traditional Ghanaian brightly colored and zig-zag patterns, and the other by a premium black leather upper. The creative team also revisited the RYZ 365 2 in shades of indigo and red and the Air Max Koko platform sandals. All footwear features four gold eyelets indicating the four Olympic gold medals won by Williams and the SWDC logo ("10 4 01") that "celebrates inclusivity, diversity and the bond between team and individual."

Apparel includes long-sleeved bodysuits, crop tops, shorts, pants, jumpsuits, athleisure track jackets, hoodies, leggings and jersey dresses. All pieces have some reference to Serena's life such as a timeline of the athlete's grand slams or the words "Williams 00" which is both a tribute to Williams' daughter, Olympia Ohanian, whose initials are OO, but also has the meaning of "love" in tennis.

The Serena Williams X Nike collection will be available in stores and on the U.S. brand's website on September 1.