Ahluwalia reimagines the Puma Suede
The London designer reinvents the iconic trainer, captured in a series of short films that celebrates the beauty of everyday life.
London-based designer Priya Ahluwalia has unveiled her first trainer collaboration, reinterpreting the iconic Puma Suede in a bold yet refined new form. The Puma Suede by Ahluwalia debuts today, ahead of a global launch on 4 October.
Since its debut in 1968, the Suede has cemented its place as a cultural mainstay, spanning hip-hop, skateboarding, and streetwear. Ahluwalia’s reimagining honours that legacy while bringing her own design language to the silhouette.
The updated model features dynamic curves and a subtle ombré midsole with a metallic sheen. Co-branding on the tongue and suede tab, paired with custom packaging, elevates the shoe into collector’s-item territory.
“For my first trainer collaboration, I wanted to honour the history of the Suede while infusing it with Ahluwalia’s design language, exploring texture, function and detail in a way that feels both familiar and completely new,” said Ahluwalia.
The launch also forms part of a wider mentorship initiative tied to Puma and Ahluwalia’s ongoing partnership. Aimed at nurturing the next generation of creative talent, the program supports filmmakers, fashion designers, and multidisciplinary storytellers aged 18–25. Participants gain access to expert guidance, industry insights, and the opportunity to showcase their work.
This dual approach – revitalising a heritage trainers while investing in young creatives – reflects both Puma’s and Ahluwalia’s commitment to culture and community. By bridging the past with the present, the collaboration offers more than just a new sneaker: it’s a statement on the evolving role of design in shaping identity, creativity, and self-expression.
With its striking aesthetic and cultural resonance, the Puma Suede by Ahluwalia is poised to capture the imagination of sneakerheads, collectors, and fashion fans alike.