Onitsuka Tiger and Versace released the TAI-CHI Sakura on April 2. This is a collaborative sneaker first shown at Dario Vitale’s debut Versace runway in Milan last September. Now, that is his only collection as the brand’s Chief Creative Officer. Eight models across colorways are available now at select Versace flagship stores. Additionally, they are available online, priced between $750 and $795.
A runway debut with unusual context
The collaboration was unveiled at Versace’s Spring Summer 2026 Milan Fashion Week show in September 2025, which turned out to be Vitale’s first and final show for the house. That context gives the TAI-CHI Sakura a singular place in fashion history, the signature piece of a creative director whose tenure lasted a single collection.
The silhouette
The TAI-CHI Sakura is built at the Onitsuka Tiger factory in Sanin, Tottori, Japan, using Italian materials selected specifically for the project. Key construction details:
- Double stitched Onitsuka Tiger stripes for added structure
- Golden Medusa emblem in studded hardware on the tongue
- Suede and nappa uppers treated with a washing and buffing process for a lived in, vintage finish
- Metallic leather variants in the eight model lineup
A loafer silhouette produced in Italy was also presented as part of the collaboration. Thus, the range extends beyond athletic footwear.
The campaign
Shot by photographer Frank Lebon, the Spring Summer 2026 campaign stars models Alvise Candida and Isaac Powell. It frames the collection through movement and physicality.
A high fashion footwear moment
The Versace x Onitsuka Tiger drop joins a growing list of luxury sneaker crossovers. These include Louis Vuitton x Nike, Valentino x Vans, and Gucci x Adidas. They reflect how thoroughly the line between streetwear and high fashion has dissolved. For Onitsuka Tiger, riding the slim sneaker wave that has kept the Mexico 66 inescapable in global fashion capitals, the Versace collaboration marks a clear step into the luxury tier.
Author Profile
- Alyssa Jade is a international fashion stylist and trend reporter based in Vancouver, Canada. Renowned for her versatile and expansive portfolio, Alyssa has collaborated with a diverse array of professionals, including athletes, political figures, television hosts, and business leaders. Her styling expertise extends across commercial campaigns, fashion editorials, music videos, television productions, fashion shows, and bridal fashion.
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