In partnership with adidas
In a world where nostalgia is a powerful force, it's little wonder that brands are looking to bring back beloved icons with a modern twist. Enter the adidas Taekwondo sneakers – a shoe that once defined the early 2000s with their sleek silhouette, minimalist design, and a nod to martial arts heritage. The Taekwondo sneakers became a streetwear staple, effortlessly blending athletic functionality with casual cool, and now, in a bold reimagining for the present day, adidas is re-releasing an updated version that retains its classic appeal.
Of course, there are contemporary upgrades that speak to the evolving tastes of a new generation, but the sneaker still feels akin to a love letter; written to those who remember the golden age of early 2000s style, and a fresh invitation for the modern audience to step into a piece of fashion history.
Model Ploy Rida is one of those new-gen wearers taking the Taekwondo to the streets. We sat down with the fresh face to ask about her personal style, how she marries comfort with aesthetics and which Y2K style icons are still pinned to her style mood board...
Right: ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoe.
Stylist's own jumper and socks; ALIX HIGGINS top; BASSIKE top; ADIDAS pants, Taekwondo shoes and Taekwondo lace shoes; OAKLEY sunglasses.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is comfortable, often monochromatic, and with a slightly conservative touch.
COACH jumper; ADIDAS top (worn as scarf) and Taekwondo lace shoes; ALIX HIGGINS skirt; OAKLEY sunglasses.
How do you think your style has evolved since working in the fashion industry?
I've learned to appreciate my appearance more, so I prioritise wearing clothing that flatters my figure and complements my skin tone. I’m now drawn towards clothing that fit well.
ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoes.
Are you someone who opts for comfort first, or aesthetics first? How do you marry the two?
Comfort is always first in my mind when planning my outfits. To achieve that balance between the two, I'm always on the hunt for items to add to my wardrobe that sit at the junction of aesthetics and wearability.
Left: ADIDAS pants and Taekwondo lace shoes. Right: EMILY WATSON top; ADIDAS pants and Taekwondo lace shoes.
What does an average day look like for you?
I start my day with a nutritious breakfast, followed by aerial dance and some days I go fishing afterwards. When I come home, I play video games and prepare for dinner.
ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoes.
Left: ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoes. Right: COACH jumper; ALIX HIGGINS skirt; ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoes.
What drew you to the adidas Taekwondo sneaker?
The slim silhouette of the shoe is flattering, and the three stripes on the side add a bold yet simple element, making them easy to pair with any outfit.
Left: BASSIKE top; ADIDAS jacket, jacket (worn as skirt) and Taekwondo shoes. Right: Stylist's own jumper and socks; ALIX HIGGINS top; BASSIKE top; ADIDAS pants and Taekwondo lace shoes; OAKLEY sunglasses.
Left: ADIDAS Taekwondo lace shoes. Right: BASSIKE top; ADIDAS jacket, jacket (worn as skirt) and Taekwondo shoes.
How are you styling your adidas Taekwondo sneakers this season?
I plan to wear these shoes with long skirts and summer dresses. They add a contrasting element that breaks up the femininity of the outfit.
Left: Stylist's own jumper and socks; ALIX HIGGINS top; BASSIKE top; ADIDAS pants, Taekwondo shoes and Taekwondo lace shoes; OAKLEY sunglasses. Right: COACH jumper; ADIDAS top (worn as scarf) and Taekwondo lace shoes; ALIX HIGGINS skirt; OAKLEY sunglasses.
The shoe was originally released in the early 2000s. Who are some of your other favourite Y2K icons?
My favourite Y2K style icon is Victoria Beckham from the early 2000s. I love the paparazzi photos that capture her chic outfits while she’s out and about, holding hands with David Beckham.
Left: ADIDAS top, shorts and Taekwondo lace shoes; ALIX HIGGINS top; OAKLEY sunglasses; stylist's own sunglass strap. Right: EMILY WATSON top; ADIDAS pants.
ALIX HIGGINS top; ADIDAS shorts and Taekwondo lace shoes.
The adidas lace Taekwondo sneaker and adidas Taekwondo slip-on sneaker are available to purchase in stores and on the adidas website now.
PHOTOGRAPHY Olivia Repaci
FASHION Teanne Vickers
MODEL Ploy @ Priscillas
BEAUTY Carly Lim
