Innovation meet inclusivity.

For decades, Adidas has been synonymous with performance apparel, pushing boundaries in innovation and design for athletes worldwide. But in recent years, the brand has taken a step beyond the traditional gym bag, and embraced the relatively unserviced sector of performance modest wear.

In a very limited edition collaboration with Parisian born artist and designer, Émile-Samory Fofana, the garment was unveiled by the artist on Instagram. Welcomed and celebrated by Fofana's 12,500 followers, with one commenting: "People don’t realise how iconic this is" and another saying "You opened the door for us, thank you" and many asking who they can purchase one for themselves.

Aesthetics Meet Performance

The Adidas x Émile-Samory thobe is an interpretation of the more traditional iteration of the customary and religious garment. But, of course, with it has both an Adidas-inspired and performance wear twist.

The Adidas thobe retains the classic white colour alongside the traditional silhouette of the long, flowing robe, but incorporates technical fabrics designed for comfort and breathability during physical activity: breathable mesh panels are strategically placed for ventilation, and the piece is made using moisture-wicking materials.

What would an Adidas collab be without the brand's signature three stripe design? A gold Adidas emblem sits proudly on the thobe's right lapel, and three gold stripes flow from the armpit to the ankle on both sides.

From Bootleg to Bonafide

This collaboration between Fofana and the three stripe brand comes after the Muslim designer created a collection of thobes in 2022, made from the sports jerseys of popular European football clubs - with the signature three stripes.

In his Instagram announcement post for the official collaboration, Fofana said: "As a multidisciplinary artist, I’m proud to be able to bring this special project to life and execute my vision from start to finish. From making bootleg football qamis to work with adidas designers, do the styling on my models, shoot the campaign, and wear my own product."

The overwhelmingly positive reaction to this launch only solidifies the need for the fashion industry, and sportswear industry to cater to this demographic that may have previously felt excluded or restricted from mainstream activewear due to modest religious and attire preferences.

Adidas' Dedication to Modest Wear

Although initially deemed to be a strategic move to expand the brand's market, and compete against rival brand Nike, Adidas has maintained its dedication to the modest wear category.

Continuing to offer a fresh perspective on inclusivity within the sportswear industry, the performance wear specialist has invested heavily in the performance modest wear category by providing new options and colourways season after season for both men and women, and also collaborating to influential individuals who embrace their faith and modest values.

In 2021, Adidas collaborated with poet and hijab-wearing basketball player Asmael Badawi and a number of Muslim women such as Dareen Barbar and Enas Ashry for the launch of the brand's first full-coverage women’s swimwear collection.

The brand collaborated with Badawi again in 2022 for their 'Nothing is Impossible' campaign. Again in 2022, Adidas collaborated with RnB artist Amani, and together they released a limited range of street inspired modest wear. In addition to massive campaigns, the brand's modest sportswear pieces have also been seen worn by athletes at major sporting events such as the Olympics.

@emilesamory @adidas

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