The Documentary Short “DC’s Shoe: The Origin of New Balance in Washington, DC” Premieres at The Village
Jacob Garibay’s new documentary, “D.C.’s Shoe: The Origin of New Balance in Washington D.C.,” premiered at The Village Cafe on Friday, March 24th, and took viewers on a journey through time, showcasing the decades-long love affair between the District and its signature shoe, New Balance. The event featured a panel discussion, and Charismatic Creations provided drink curation.
In the ’80s, the release of the New Balance 990 model marked a turning point in sneaker culture. Retailing at $100, the stylish and pricy kicks quickly caught the attention of street culture enthusiasts. The go-go scene, a unique part of D.C.’s cultural heritage, further fueled the popularity of these sneakers across the region.
As Garibay sifted through photo submissions, he observed the intergenerational appeal of New Balance, with people sharing images of themselves and their parents donning the iconic sneakers. This staple fashion item transcended race and became a unifying symbol for Washington, D.C.’s youth.
“D.C.’s Shoe” features first-hand accounts and nostalgic photos from D.C. natives connected to the brand, including the owner of the influential Prince & Princess clothing store, Parviz Mizrahi. With collaborations from local figures like Malik Jarett, who released his own signature 990v3 shoe in 2018 and 2019, the documentary delves into the heart of the D.C. sneaker phenomenon.
But who really gets credit for starting it all? That’s the great debate Garibay’s documentary aims to explore, fueling conversation and celebrating the District’s rich culture. Attendees at the premiere discussed the need to create a more equitable relationship with the brand. “We want to see New Balance support us the same way we’ve supported them,” and “They should have an office here so we can interact with people at the brand,” were said during a Q&A.
As D.C. faces gentrification and the displacement of native residents, “D.C.’s Shoe” highlights the importance of preserving the city’s history and culture of sneakers. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the origin of this iconic footwear and its impact on Washington, D.C. Follow Jacob Garibay on Instagram via https://www.instagram.com/free.jacob/ You can now view the film here:
