Kelly Tennant is the content & social manager for The Sole Womens, the femme-focused sister site of The Sole Supplier. She produces TSW Talks, a podcast highlighting women within the sneaker industry and sharing vital information for other women hoping to break in. Her current platform in the sneaker industry is solely (get it, lol) focused on championing equality and visibility for other women around her, and is evolving one digital medium at a time. Luckily, Kelly had a few minutes to tell us what she’s up to.
Name: Kelly Tennant
Age: 27
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Where are you from, and where are you right now?
I’m from Basingstoke and recently moved back home, living just outside of Reading. I lived in Bournemouth for Uni and London for a few years after that, especially when I first started at The Sole Supplier.
What’s your first memory with streetwear?
My first memory of streetwear growing up is being exposed to more skate brands, with the likes of Vans and Converse being worn on foot. As soon as I was old enough to earn my own money I did, and would spend almost all of it on new clothes, with Carhartt and Stussy making their way into my wardrobe. I also used to love sourcing vintage finds and rummaging through my parents' wardrobes, finding old Versace denim gems that could be coordinated with a pair of Converse One Stars. The Air Max 97 Silver Bullet was the first pair that really started my sneaker collection.
If you had to compress your personal style into one outfit, what would it be?
My personal style is old mixed with new, and a mixture of baggy trousers (always) and simple crop tops. I love keeping it casual and comfy, so I always have an oversized hoodie or sweatshirt on hand. I keep my accessories to a minimum and let the shoes or trousers become the statement piece.
You can only wear three shoes for the rest of your life — what are they?
Clarks Originals Wallabees (Maple), sacai x Nike VaporWaffle (Black/White) and a pair of Dr Martens 101’s for any occasion.
Streetwear style icon: Peggy Gou, hands down. I’m also a big fan of Hailey Bieber's timeless style and ability to mix old with new and different texture and fabrics. But Peggy Gou just wins every time for me.
Your last (or favorite) Instagram follow: For style: missjoslin or jademacj are always good for everyday outfit inspiration, and I feel like they have a similar vibe to what I’d wear day to day. Sneakersbywomen is great for info on what’s happening in the industry and people to follow. A must on your follow list.
What’s your biggest creative or career milestone so far? What’s your biggest creative or career goal right now?
My biggest creative highlight this year would have to be starting a podcast for The Sole Womens that’s been really successful in its first year. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, highlighting women in the industry and talking to the people behind the scenes, helping other women to find their passion. My career highlight is being taken to Puerto Rico and New York with adidas for the launch of the Bad Bunny x adidas Forum Low. It was one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had! My biggest career goal right now is to continue to highlight women in the industry and get a sponsorship for TSW Talks, whilst also growing the female team at The Sole Womens!
What’s your dream collaboration? Either with yourself, or between brands/people you love.
My dream collaboration would have to be Clarks Originals and sacai. I think what sacai did with Nike, and the way Clarks are such a classic icon, it could either work really well or be a flop — but I’d be intrigued to see. The KITH Wallabees were a big hit for me, so even more collabs in the future from Clarks would be amazing.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently continuing to lead The Sole Womens team at The Sole Supplier, and will be working on something in the new year that will help other women wanting to get into the industry too, alongside the podcast but offering more on-hands assistance.
When do you feel the most empowered?
I feel the most empowered when I’ve worked hard on something and see the outcome of the efforts paying off. Sometimes it might seem that things you’re putting all your effort into aren’t paying off, but I’ve definitely learnt over the years that anything you work hard at will always work out. I love being surrounded by other talented, motivated women and working alongside them everyday is inspiring for me.
What needs to change about the current streetwear landscape, to make it more inclusive?
I feel very lucky that working for The Sole Supplier has given me so many opportunities and I’m always able to put forward my point of view and opinion. This is something I think the industry needs more of. To take women seriously and listen to what they have to say or their opinions, even more so than they are already. It’s improved a lot over the few years I’ve been in the industry, but more people need to realize that women can be real leaders in this space and have amazing ideas, and when we come together we’re pretty powerful.
What woman in streetwear/sneaker history would you like to see get her flowers?
Giulia Zed, the work she does for other people is really inspiring, alongside her own work and how she’s killing the game right now. Emily Atkins is also someone that needs huge praise, she does a lot for the community whilst always having time for everyone and anyone, spotting talent and ensuring they’re put in the right direction to improve their own personal growth which I think is really important. Alicia Pinckney is someone else who has had an amazing career journey, traveled the world and now has her own initiative that helps to fund Black students who are wanting to get into the fashion industry.