CAA Brand Management takes us inside recent Playboy footwear launches with KOI and DUKE + DEXTER

Guys, it’s great to catch up. Before we focus on Playboy, why is footwear an exciting space to bring your brands into?
Footwear is an exciting category for our brands because it seamlessly complements our existing fashion and apparel assortment, offering a holistic ‘head-to-toe’ style experience for our consumers. Footwear, being a distinct category, allows us to reach a broader audience and individuals who may not have previously engaged with our brand. Collaborating on a footwear collection signifies a commitment from our consumer and fans. When they choose our footwear, they are making a long-term commitment to our brand.

You’ve launched recent Playboy collections with DUKE + DEXTER and KOI. Let’s dive into those! What made DUKE + DEXTER a good fit for the brand?
DUKE + DEXTER proved to be an exciting partner for Playboy due to its inspired heritage feel, aligning perfectly with Playboy’s rich history and magazine assets. Additionally, their attention to detail assured us that we would receive a fantastic and creatively inspired collection that resonates with fans of both brands.

Talk us through some of your favourite design details in the collection?
Some of our favourite design details in the collection include DUKE + DEXTER’s clever use of iconic cover images and graphics printed on the front of their signature penny loafer, showcasing the rich history of the Playboy brand. We particularly appreciate the inclusion of the rare Femlin assets created by Leroy Neiman in one of the designs, adding an extra layer of exclusivity and a high-end touch to the products. They truly symbolise the Playboy aesthetic.

Elsewhere, KOI also launched a Playboy range recently. Why did this partnership make sense for the brand?
KOI stands out as a unique brand in its field, characterised by boldness, bravery and breaking the rules. These qualities resonate perfectly with the core values of Playboy. KOI’s commitment to creativity – not just any creativity, but a bold, boundary-pushing creativity – sets them apart. Their mantra is: “Unapologetically bold and limitlessly creative, KOI is for the confident and the curious.” We were confident that partnering with KOI would result in a Playboy collection that is truly unique, daring, and destined to stand out. Lastly, KOI’s dedication to sustainability is commendable. Their use of 100% vegan leather and conscious production made the collaboration more meaningful.

What are some highlights from KOI’s collection?
The entire collection has amazing designs and several really stand out from a brand perspective. One style we find particularly exciting features the iconic Playboy Rabbit Head stamped across the classic KOI chunky boot. The fusion adds a unique and bold touch to an already impressive silhouette.

Additionally, the designs paying homage to the Year of the Rabbit, in stunning gold and red tones, accented by gold shimmer on both the platform heel and boot are so original and gorgeous.

Guys, congrats again on these launches and thanks for taking time out to chat.