This pair of PUMA suede shoes was collaboratively designed by Hideki Akiyoshi and Bebe Seet who created the Peranakan-style beadwork. It features three-dimensional beading of phoenixes and dragons along the PUMA Formstrip, a trademark curvilineal strip created in 1958 that came to be a signature of the brand. The design reinvents the tradition of beading in Peranakan shoes such as the kasut manek (beaded slippers), applying its craft in an athleisure style.As a part of PUMA’s 50th anniversary campaign, the sportswear brand invited creatives, artists, and brands both regionally and internationally to design limited editions of PUMA’s signature suede shoes. This piece was shown at PUMA Suede 50 Truck, a pop-up event at Robinsons, The Heeren (2018) alongside other designs.Bebe Seet from Rumah Bebe is known for reviving the art of Peranakan beadwork, and for having one of the most exquisite workmanships in the craft. Hideki Akiyoshi is a notable producer of lifestyle and fashion events, a board member of the Asian Civilisations Museum, and a patron of the Peranakan Museum.
