Weeks after the controversial Kanye-disapproved Puma contract signing, Kylie Jenner was spotted stepping out in sneakers from other brands.
She made headlines when she paired white Vans sneakers with a striking blue Hermès Birkin bag, embracing a laid-back street style. Shortly after, she attended the Boss Womenswear Fall 2016 fashion show at New York Fashion Week, effortlessly styling a sophisticated ensemble with unexpected gray Adidas sneakers.
Despite her high-profile Puma deal, Kylie’s choice of footwear kept fans guessing. But now, she’s finally sporting sneakers from the brand she’s meant to endorse—Puma.
Kylie Jenner’s Instagram post of the official ad campaign for the Puma “Fierce” sneakers, which she described as “a lightweight trainer with zero excuses” — posted on March 14, 2016 (Credit: Kylie Jenner’s Instagram)
The social media star used her much-followed Instagram and Snapchat accounts to unveil the Kylie Jenner x Puma sneakers. Dubbed the Puma “Fierce,” the kicks feature a lace-less style, Puma logo prints on the vamps, and high tongues going up the legs.
Wait a second—don’t Rihanna’s Puma sneakers sound exactly the same? The Fenty x Puma sneakers Rihanna released a couple of weeks ago also look just like that. It isn’t easy to compare using only the official ad campaign pictures, but the only main difference we see between the two trainers is that Ri’s have much higher tongues.
Rihanna’s Fenty x Puma trainers are “designed to draw attention, push boundaries, and change the game.” — posted on February 18, 2016 (Credit: Rihanna’s Instagram)
We’re not insinuating that Kylie copied Rihanna. What most likely happened here is that Puma designed both sneakers and just tapped the two stars to be the faces of each.
Besides, there seems to be no bad blood between the two. Even before promoting her ad campaign, Kylie shared Snapchats modeling Rihanna’s Pumas and glimpses of her shoe closet — proving that she owns the trainers in all three colorways.
Kylie Jenner modeling the Puma “Fierce” sneakers in the official ad campaign — posted on March 13, 2016
Whose Puma trainers do you like more, Kylie’s or Rihanna’s? Kylie’s Puma “Fierce” sneakers will be available at Puma.com, Puma retail stores, and select retailers starting April 1.
Until then, we can expect the entire Kardashian-Jenner clan to start spamming the hashtag #ForeverFierce. Kylie is already leading the way with posts showing her wearing Puma gear while lounging mid-day in a pool, posing next to a real puma, and putting her Puma-sneaker-clad foot up on the dashboard of her Rolls Royce. You know, just everyday things for a Jenner.
Kylie Jenner’s Instagram post of her lounging poolside in a black Puma sports bra and high-cut underwear — posted on March 12, 2016
Kylie Jenner’s Instagram post captioned, “Puma Vs. Puma” — posted on March 3, 2016
Rihanna’s Fenty x Puma collection has made waves in sneaker culture, too. While Kylie’s ‘Fierce’ sneakers dominate headlines, Rihanna’s Puma Creepers and high-fashion collaborations continue to set trends.
More on Rihanna’s Puma Collaboration
For those captivated by Rihanna’s dynamic partnership with Puma, her Fenty x Puma line has delivered standout pieces that blend streetwear aesthetics with high fashion. Notably, the Fenty Puma Creepers garnered significant acclaim, even earning the prestigious Shoe of the Year award.
Rihanna’s influence extended beyond design; she often showcased her creations, such as when she modeled her collection at Bergdorf Goodman. Her personal style frequently features Puma collaborations, like the time she paired a gray pantsuit with vibrant red Fenty x Puma sneakers, effortlessly merging sporty and chic elements.