Department X will focus on ultra-rare collectibles—and it's starting with a set of highly coveted sneakers.
The first pair is the Air Yeezy 1 Prototype West designed and wore during his performance at the 2008 Grammy Awards. The shoes, created in collaboration with Nike creative director Mark Smith and designer Tiffany Beers, feature a glow-in-the-dark outsole with a translucent red “Y” shaped lace lock. They’re one of the first pairs of sneakers West designed.
The second style is the Nike Donda West Air Jordan VI Sneaker made in honor of West’s late mother. Nike created six exclusive styles for West and his close circles that were never released to the public after her passing. Lyrics from West’s song “Roses” and his mother’s name decorate the shoe’s sock liner. The heel and tongue are finished with embroidered blooms as an ode to the song.
“With a finger on the pulse of popular culture and the evolution of what is defined as luxury today, we are proud to announce the launch of Department X – Sneakers, Streetwear & Collectibles,” says Caitlin Donovan, Christie’s American head of handbags, streetwear and sneakers, in a statement. “With exciting sales that will cross several genres of popular culture and collecting—music, fashion, and sports history—I am excited for new and existing clients of Christie’s to embark on this journey with us.”