Vans Unveils Dia de los Muertos Old Skool Sneaker
Vans has released a Day of the Dead edition of its Old Skool silhouette, featuring an intricate floral pattern on a suede upper with autumnal orange and red accents. The sneaker, priced at $90, is available now on Vans' website. It arrives ahead of the holiday and continues the brand's run of themed Old Skool releases.
The Old Skool’s latest themed release leans into autumnal tones, with a suede upper marked by an inset floral motif against orange sidewalls and deep red overlays. Leather Jazz stripes and suede eyestays complement the design, while an off-white sole carries orange striping and red heel branding. Priced at $90, the shoe is available now on Vans’ website, arriving well ahead of the Day of the Dead holiday.
This drop continues Vans’ pattern of using the Old Skool for special makeups, following the “Souvenir” series inspired by a Chanel bag, the “Pearlized” editions, and several Satoshi Nakamoto collaborations. The model, originally released as the Style 36 in 1977, was the first Vans shoe to use leather and introduced the Jazz Stripe, a doodle by co-founder Paul Van Doren. Its 50th anniversary arrives next year.
This release may appeal to collectors and holiday shoppers seeking culturally themed footwear, potentially boosting Vans’ visibility during a key retail season. However, its impact is likely limited to niche sneaker enthusiasts rather than broad consumer shifts. The timing could reinforce the Old Skool’s status as a flagship model, but any commercial effect remains modest given the $90 price point and specialty design.