Teyana Taylor is continuing to redefine the intersection of music, fashion, and footwear. Fresh off a Golden Globe win for her role in One Battle After Another, the multi-talented artist is generating significant buzz with her upcoming collaboration with Jordan Brand: the Air Jordan 3 “Concrete Rose.” The sneaker, which Taylor personally previewed for producer London On Da Track during Grammy weekend, is already being hailed as one of the most anticipated releases of .
The exclusive first look, shared widely online, reveals a design that moves beyond simple aesthetics, embodying a narrative of growth and resilience. As Taylor explained to fashion reporter Jarrod Jenkins at a Jordan Brand launch party in Los Angeles, this collaboration builds upon the themes explored in her previous Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT project. While the Air Jordan 1 focused on the beauty of the rose itself, the Air Jordan 3 delves into the complexities of the thorns – the challenges and experiences that shape us.
The “Concrete Rose” moniker isn’t merely a stylistic choice. The design incorporates a textured midsole intentionally crafted to resemble hardened cement, visually representing the idea of flourishing even in difficult environments. This grounding element is further emphasized by a rich green upper, providing a muted backdrop for the shoe’s more striking details. A signature rose emblem is stitched onto the tongue, subtly connecting this iteration to Taylor’s earlier work with Jordan Brand.
Perhaps the most innovative feature of the “Concrete Rose” is the molded thorn detailing that wraps around the upper. This isn’t simply an aesthetic addition; the thorns are removable, a deliberate design choice that speaks to the permanence of growth. According to Taylor, once removed, the thorns cannot be reattached, reinforcing the idea that experiences leave lasting marks. This concept, of embracing the scars and lessons learned, resonates deeply with Taylor’s own artistic journey and public persona.
Beyond the symbolic elements, the Air Jordan 3 “Concrete Rose” boasts premium materials and refined details. Metallic gold eyelets and rose hangtags add a touch of luxury, while “TEY” branding on the tongues provides a personalized signature. The classic Nike Air heel tabs maintain the foundational elements of the iconic Air Jordan 3 silhouette, ensuring a respectful nod to the shoe’s heritage.
London On Da Track’s enthusiastic reaction – declaring them “the best Retro 3’s I’ve ever seen” – underscores the sneaker’s immediate impact within the industry. His endorsement carries weight, given his prominent position as a hitmaker and tastemaker in contemporary music. The collaboration highlights Taylor’s growing influence not just as an entertainer, but as a creative force shaping cultural trends.
Taylor’s ascent has been remarkable. From her early appearances on MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen to her recent Golden Globe win and hosting debut on Saturday Night Live, she has consistently defied expectations and expanded her creative boundaries. Her previous collaboration with Jordan Brand, the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT, demonstrated her ability to translate personal narratives into compelling design. The “Concrete Rose” appears poised to surpass even that success.
The Air Jordan 3 “Concrete Rose” is set to release on , with a retail price of $280. The release is expected to generate significant demand, solidifying Taylor’s status as a key collaborator for Jordan Brand and a major player in the sneaker world. The shoe represents more than just a limited-edition release; it’s a statement about resilience, growth, and the power of embracing one’s own story.
This collaboration also speaks to a broader trend within the sneaker industry: the increasing emphasis on storytelling and artistic expression. Brands are increasingly seeking partnerships with creatives who can bring unique perspectives and narratives to their products. Teyana Taylor embodies this trend perfectly, seamlessly blending her talents across music, film, and fashion to create a truly compelling and culturally relevant product.
As Taylor continues to navigate a period of unprecedented success – with an Oscar nomination and multiple other awards on the horizon – her influence is only expected to grow. The Air Jordan 3 “Concrete Rose” is not just a sneaker; it’s a symbol of her journey and a testament to her unwavering commitment to artistic innovation.