Miami Heat superstar Dwyane Wade has a well-documented passion for fashion, standing apart from most NBA players with his adventurous fits and bright colors. The latter is a hallmark of his new line of Stance socks.
We spoke to the man himself about what he’s bumping right now (Trey Songz, Nicki Minaj and Ed Sheeran), personal style heroes and how Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood factored into his Stance line.
Men’s Shop Daily: Your Stance collection is super colorful. Is that a Miami connection?
Dwyane Wade: Miami definitely plays a role. The city is filled with a huge Latin and Caribbean population, and vibrant colors are all over the place: in clothes, artwork and food. I guess it rubs off on you after twelve seasons. For Spring 2015, I also looked to the walls of the Wynwood neighborhood. Where I come from [in Chicago], you paint on walls and it’s called graffiti. On the blocks of Wynwood, everyone calls it street art. The place is a constant reminder that art, from abstract to pop art, can be anywhere. Even on your socks.
Which NBA players do you consider style heroes? And what about non-NBA players?
From the NBA, definitely Dr. J and Clyde Frazier. They were risk-takers and before their time. Other style influencers for me are James Bond, David Beckham, and Dean and Dan Caten [of Dsquared2].
How would you counsel a friend who’s intrigued but scared to take a style risk?
I would tell him to start with something small like, say, my collection of Stance socks! But seriously, I would tell that friend to start with small amounts of fun colors and patterns that only peek out when you walk or sit down. I guarantee that friend will receive so many compliments, he will be willing to take a chance with a more visible piece.
Shop: Stance socks
–Andrew Matson
