NikeLab and Matthew M. Williams have unveiled a collection, set to be released on July 12th.


Matthew M. Williams is an American designer currently based in Italy and founder of the fashion brand ALYX. Known for balancing a unique aesthetic with practicality, Williams worked with Nike to create a collection for men and women featuring training shirts, pants, accessories, and more, all of which humanize data-driven, purpose-driven design.

The collection utilizes elements from the t-shirts in the "A.A.E. 1.0 Collection," which was launched last year and was designed with an eye toward the future. Using computational design techniques, they transformed atlas map data—showing areas of sweating and movement due to increased body temperature—into structural patterns, informing new manufacturing methods for T-shirts.

"When you can visualize data, you can think about solving problems in a different way," explains Kurt Parker, Nike's vice president of apparel design. For example, focusing on advanced thermoregulation and biomechanics can lead to rethinking traditional garment patterning.

And Williams adds, "Computer-based design and data will undoubtedly shape the future of design. It allows us to see things differently and do things we couldn't do before, and it allows us to design from a new perspective."


Both believe that while data offers new opportunities, it's not the only way to design. This leaves room for what Williams calls an "organic feel." This is evident in the way Williams intentionally incorporates imperfections into precise computer-generated designs, such as the raw edges of the women's mid-layer tank.

Williams' carefully curated accessories enhance the collection's versatility. Parker says, "What's exciting about working with Williams is that he takes cutting-edge Nike design and applies it to a real-world setting. Because the training collection isn't just for the gym, it needs to have functionality for different settings, like pockets and elements that can be removed and adapted for multiple uses. Matthew also called for a towel, which he included in the collection."

Williams's Nike sock designs are playful and perfectly emblematic of his reinvention of classic pieces. "I love double socks because they're so versatile and familiar, but with a little tweaking, they can create a new feel within the familiar," says Williams.

The NIKELAB x Matthew M. Williams capsule collection will be available from July 12th at NIKE.COM/NIKELAB, NIKELAB MA5, DSM GINZA, and select retailers.