Seattle Fashion News: Guillermo Bravo launches innovative new sneaker

The pandemic was a major disruptor for many small businesses, but for Seattle-based sneaker and apparel brand Guillermo Bravo, it was also a major catalyst for creativity. Founder Luis Vélez, used the downtime to open Seattle’s newest footwear shop CORRE as well as release his newest collection of apparel, Architect Mom. If that wasn’t enough, followers of the brand are also eagerly awaiting the spring release of the FSI-1 sneaker, which will make its debut this month.

”I've held a deep love for sneakers since I was a kid,” says Vélez. “As an adult, my focus on footwear and apparel production led me to launch Guillermo Bravo in 2018. I partnered with Shu Jones, our head of Footwear Design, and the rest is history.” Together, the duo creates products that reflect a deep love of art, innovation, and genderless design.

At first glance, the new FSI-1 (Future Standard Issue-01) shoe seemingly stops at its stylish and sleek design. However, a closer look at the shoe reveals the innovative addition of interchangeable shrouds to allow for a variety of looks and color combinations. Designed with customization in mind, the front of the shoe can be unzipped and replaced with new shrouds of diverse materials and colors depending on the wearer’s mood or vibe.

“From a trend perspective, we know that creatives want the ability to customize everything they wear and everything they create. We want to be able to connect with the people seeking unconventional design by creating something unique and customizable. The FSI-1 is more than just a shoe, but an ever-evolving conversation,” says Vélez.

The design of the FSI-1 looks 40 years into the future, imagining the kind of utilitarian footwear that will be in use. Distinguishing features include customizable and detachable shrouds, Vibram sole units, a neoprene bootie for comfort and support, and an easy-on-the-environment vegetable-tanned leather upper, designed in Italy.

The FSI-1 is currently designed in an all-black silhouette with a removable shroud. Additional shroud colors and shoe colorways are anticipated to launch this fall. Guillermo Bravo looks forward to building off of the shrouds, releasing limited edition collaborative shrouds with other designers and artists down the line.

To fund the new sneaker, the Guillermo Bravo team has launched a Kickstarter campaign to give fans an opportunity to invest in the brand through strategic support.

UPDATE 4/18/22: The Kickstarter campaign was successfully funded earlier this month. BIG thank you to everyone who stepped up to support Seattle fashion!

Luis Vélez Bio

Originally from Colombia, Luis Vélez first started Guillermo Bravo as a passion project. Since he was a kid, Vélez has possessed a deep love for sneakers. As an adult, his focus on footwear and apparel production led to the founding of Guillermo Bravo in 2018. Over the past five years, Vélez has carefully researched the industry to develop a sustainable business model that would allow him to bring his vision to life.

About Guillermo Bravo
Guillermo Bravo informs a commitment to modern shapes that aren't constricted by gender binaries and can be re-imagined by the wearer. A dedication to impeccable, sustainable construction and ultra-modern design drives the team.