1985

Overview: A bold, retro-style tribute marking the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan 1 and the debut of Flight 23, a cultural moment that didn't just launch a sneaker, but redefined the relationship between sports, fashion, and identity. In 1985, Michael Jordan wasn't yet a legend; he was a rookie defying a league dress code, wearing a shoe that got fined every game he stepped on the court. This project captures that energy, the rebellion, the spectacle, and the beginning of something that would permanently change how athletes are branded and how culture remembers them.

Problem Statement:

  • NBA had a rule requiring player shoes to be at least 51% white to match team uniforms.

  • The Air Jordan 1 in its black and red colorway violated it outright.

  • Jordan wore them an act of defiance that cost Nike $5,000 per appearance.

Research & Insights:

  • Studied the advertising landscape of 1985, including print, packaging, street media.

  • The cultural weight of 1985 extends far beyond a sneaker.

  • Trailblazing moment in pop culture and sports media.

Design Process:

  • Moodboard Creation: Visual archives, modern sports design.

  • Color Palette: Red and Black.

  • Typography: Bold font like Impact to catch the viewers attention.

Deliverables

  • Poster Design

  • Editoral Design

  • Magazine Cover

  • UI Design

  • Package Design

  • Illustration

Outcome

  • Reached 1K views on personal Instagram page.

Visuals

  • Poster Design

  • Editoral Design

  • Magazine Cover

  • UI Design

  • Package Design

  • Illustration

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Visual Rebrand & Identity

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Illustration & Experimental Design