I distinctly remember the debut of the Frozen Moment commercial starring Michael Jordan which highlighted the Air Jordan XII (12’s). Just like the viewers in the commercial, it felt like the world slowed down as I watched MJ’s every move. The inbounding of the ball at the top of the key as he pivoted and sized the defender up. Then he dribbled right, spun back through the defenders, and just like that his Airness took flight.
I was a huge Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls fan growing up thanks to the camaraderie from my uncle and cousin. I continued as a Chicago Bulls fan until I established my independent love for the game.
Air Jordan XII
After the under performing Air Jordan II (2’s), which did not meet MJ’s expectations, he considered leaving Nike to sign with Adidas. However, he decided to give the Swoosh one more chance and, I’m sure, we are all glad he did! Nike tasked once architect turned designer, Tinker Hatfield, with creating the Air Jordan III (3’s). This silhouette has become one of the most iconic sneakers, thanks, in part to its infamous elephant print. Tinker went on to design the next dozen Jordans including the Jordan XII.
In November 1995, exactly one year after moving from San Francisco to New York City, Nike released the Air Jordan XII. A month later, on Christmas, my mother surprised me with my second pair of Nike Air Jordans. Little did she know that was opening the door to my soon to be sneaker collection of original Air Jordans and other iconic shoes.
The Air Jordan XII is one of my favorite silhouettes due to its cultural design inspiration and bold yet simple silhouette. It turns out Tinker drew his inspiration from the Japanese flag. The upper leather was stitched to resemble a rising sun while the faux reptile leather contrast accentuated the toe box and overlays. However, I am most enthralled by the metal lace loops with raised imprints of the Jumpman logo and the back pull tab that runs up the heel of the shoe reading “Quality Inspired by The Greatest Player Ever” and sealed with 23 at the heel.
Cherry
The cherry colorway first debuted in 1996 before heading into the Nike shoe vault in 1997. My mother had bought my brother and me the Air Jordan XII ‘Taxi’ for Christmas. There was no way she was buying me another pair months later…..no matter how much I begged!
I waited years for Nike to take the Air Jordan XII ‘Cherry’ out of the vault and add it to the Jordan Brand retro collection. In 2009 while I was working at Foot Locker in the corporate office, Nike finally released the cherry colorway and I didn’t hesitate to purchase them, adding them to my growing sneaker collection.
How I Wore the Air Jordan XII
As my style continues to evolve, one thing remains the same, I really like a clean modular wardrobe. Rather than investing in more clothing, I take a sustainable and conscious approach by continuing to expand on the wardrobe that I’ve built over the years. On occasion, I will invest in new basics or staple pieces that are meant to last long term. Ideally, you shouldn’t have to purchase new clothing often when investing in quality over quantity.
Sometime around college, after being a long time Jordan Brand-wearing and sneaker collector, I started to put sneakers into my own vault. I was never one for trends and didn’t like to wear the ‘trending’ item at the same time as the masses. Not to mention, as I began curating my sophisticated wardrobe, I realized how challenging it can be to pair bulky basketball shoes with smart casual attire.
What I love about the Air Jordan XII design is its sleek and minimal silhouette. It is ideal for a sophisticated look with a relaxed style.
Fifteen years after purchasing the Air Jordan XII ‘Cherry’, I have finally taken my out of my vault. I opted for a suit-separate outfit. My red single-breasted suit blazer was a no-brainer, helping to elevate the Air Jordan XII ‘Cherry’ seamlessly. In my opinion, sometimes, less is more. I wore a black turtleneck and white jeans to not detract from the sneakers. The final touch…the accessories. A silver chain and Movado Bold watch.
Blazer (The Tailory NYC), Turtleneck (Uniqlo), Jeans (GAP), Sneakers (Nike – Jordan Brand), Necklace (Jonas Studio), Watch (Movado)
What do you think?