CamperLab Launches First Runway Show Featuring Spiky Sneakers

PARIS – In a groundbreaking event during Paris Men's Fashion Week, CamperLab, the experimental arm of the Spanish footwear brand Camper, unveiled its first-ever runway show on June 27, 2025. The show, held in an unconventional car park setting, showcased a collection that extends beyond footwear, aiming to solidify CamperLab's identity as a versatile fashion label. Under the creative direction of Achilles Ion Gabriel, the event featured a star-studded lineup including Gigi Goode, Matt Ox, and music producer Coucou Chloe, embodying the brand's ethos of inclusivity and innovation.

The runway presentation was meticulously designed to evoke the ambiance of a Berlin nightclub, complete with dim lighting, smoke effects, and a pulsating soundtrack curated by Pandora’s Jukebox. This setting complemented the collection's theme: a character study that emphasized individual expression rather than mere clothing. As noted by Gabriel, the aim was to create an immersive experience that resonates with contemporary cultural narratives and personal identities.

"We are not just presenting garments; we are exploring the narratives of those who wear them," said Gabriel during a post-show interview. This philosophy was evident in the diverse casting choices, which included street-cast models and figures from various subcultures, underscoring the brand’s commitment to breaking conventional fashion barriers.

Among the standout designs were eye-catching spiky sneakers, which featured unique embedded soles, and vibrant red crocodile-embossed cowboy boots. These pieces not only highlighted CamperLab's innovative approach to design but also served as a bold statement in the fashion landscape.

The introduction of a new logo and monogram was another significant element of the show, signaling a fresh chapter for the brand as it aims to carve out a distinct niche within the competitive fashion industry. According to industry expert Dr. Emily Carter, a fashion historian at the London College of Fashion, the event represents a strategic move for CamperLab. "By expanding into ready-to-wear, CamperLab is positioning itself to engage with a broader audience while staying true to its experimental roots," she stated in her analysis of the show.

The reception of the collection has been mixed, with some critics praising the innovative designs and others questioning the practicality of such avant-garde pieces in everyday wear. Fashion journalist Marco Tait, who covered the event for Vogue, remarked, "While the creativity is commendable, it raises the question of whether these designs can transcend the runway and find a place in consumers' wardrobes."

As CamperLab embarks on this new journey, the implications for the brand could be significant. The fashion industry is increasingly leaning towards inclusivity and self-expression, trends that CamperLab seems poised to capitalize on. However, the brand must navigate the delicate balance between innovation and wearability to ensure commercial success.

Looking ahead, the future of CamperLab appears promising, especially with its commitment to continuous experimentation and engaging diverse voices within the fashion community. As the brand prepares for its next collection, it remains to be seen how it will adapt to the evolving landscape of fashion and consumer expectations. The runway show has undoubtedly set a high bar for its future endeavors as it seeks to redefine the boundaries of contemporary fashion.