Joe Freshgoods And Vault By Vans Brace For Winter With The “Chocolate Valley Resort” Collection

Michael Le January 17, 2023

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To kick off the new year, Joe Freshgoods and Vault By Vans are reuniting for an extensive collaborative capsule, one replete with not only footwear but also a wide assortment of winter staples. Dubbed the “Chocolate Valley Resort,” the collection explores travel and leisure through the lens of the Black experience, all the while immersing us in a place based on and effectively frozen in a moment of time.

“Chocolate Valley Resort is inspired by my love for travel and research. For this collection I wanted to create something that aligns with the rich history of Vault by Vans, but from a new perspective. Chocolate Valley Resort marries the history of Black travel and leisure with winter-ready pieces that blend playfulness and functionality”, said Joe Freshgoods.”

Set in the 1950s, the lookbook — documented by Yashaddai Owens and starring Barrington Darius — follows a Black writer exploring the titular Chocolate Valley Resort, whose intentions are to reset, relax, and reconnect. The collection as well as the photoset itself are an homage to James Baldwin and Audre Lorde, who traveled abroad to not only escape the racism of America but also build up their literary careers.

The apparel, from the Resort Puffer to the Cabin Tee, recontextualizes workwear essentials with modern silhouettes and vibrant colors. Movement and creativity are paramount, evident in the pieces’ oversized cuts as well as the loud patterns and vintage-inspired “Chocolate Valley Resort” chain stitching. Below, the footwear echoes this design ethos. Alongside reimagining the Sk8-Hi to resemble the above-mentioned puffer jacket — juxtaposing said elements with hairy suede panels — Joe Freshgoods and Vans have produced the Slip-Hiker LX, whose two-toned, quilted nylon upper and MTE outsole are perfect for the wintery conditions.

Enjoy a closer look at the Joe Freshgoods x Vault By Vans “Chocolate Valley Resort” collection right here. The entire range will be made available on January 21st via JoeFreshgoods.com as well as Every Now & Then in Chicago. A wider release via Vans.com and select Vault By Vans retailers will follow.