Nya Lorraine is an NYC-based content specialist, host, and sneaker expert. She is the co-founder and co-host of Her Sole podcast. She also hosts In Forum Live, a recurring SNKRS livestream that highlights women within the Jordan + wider streetwear community. Her IG feed routinely serves a close-up look at the latest coveted sneaker drop, with photo dumps and Reels that conveniently double as the mood board for your next manicure appointment. Lucky for us, Nya had a few minutes to tell us what she’s up to and into lately.
Name: Nya Lorraine
Age: 30
Job Title/Occupation: Live Host/Content Specialist
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Where are you from, and where are you right now?
I’m from Brooklyn, NY. Currently still in NY.
What’s your first memory with streetwear?
First memories of streetwear would have to be my older cousins, older kids on my block/in my neighborhood, just being fly effortlessly. In the latest kicks, coolest fits, wanting to be just like them.
If you had to compress your personal style into one outfit, what would it be?
My cartoon character outfit would definitely involve some kind of camo. I’ve loved camo since I was a kid. Probably camo pants, a hoodie, some classic J’s and a bubble jacket or a varsity jacket and some bamboo earrings (cause my cartoon would definitely be in NYC).
You can only wear three shoes for the rest of your life — what are they?
Air Jordan 7 “Olympic” - one of my favorite sneakers of all time. 7s aren’t a fan favorite but they’re one of mine. The gold, red, silver and blue hints on this pair just always stood out to me.
Air Max 95 Neon - I just think it’s a timeless, classic staple within the community. Also reminds me of great times growing up.
AJ 1 “Black Toe” - I think it’s one of the best colorways, versatile, can be dressed up or down, just so clean in my opinion, even as they age.
Streetwear style icon: Teyana Taylor for sure. I feel like she embodies tomboy chic, high fashion & streetwear so effortlessly and so NY.
Your last (or favorite) Instagram follow: Brooklyn Betty (@br00klynbetty). I love her style, can’t wait until my closet is even close to being as fly as hers.
What’s your biggest creative or career milestone so far? What’s your biggest creative or career goal right now?
Hosting In Forum Live from Howard University. It was something that was on my bucket list after graduating from Howard. The energy and response from the students made my year. My biggest creative goal right now is to just bring more of my ideas to fruition, keeping pushing for women to be highlighted, celebrated and supported throughout the community and beyond.
What’s your dream collaboration?
Honestly…I’ve always wanted to make my own J’s, preferably a 7, 12 or 16.
What are you currently working on?
Currently working on getting season 2 of Hersole Podcast up and running.
When do you feel the most empowered?
I feel most empowered when I’m in my zone, doing things that I love, getting ideas I’ve had into motion, seeing my work come to fruition. When my family tells me how proud they are of me. Reaching my hand back to help who I can.
What needs to change about the current streetwear landscape, to make it more inclusive?
I think the change we’ve been looking for is slowly but surely emerging. Don’t get me wrong, there’s still work to do, but I definitely feel like there have been those spotlights for women (black women especially). We’re being recognized for setting and being the trends. We are breaking down the doors to demand inclusivity, and I’m excited to see what the years ahead of us look like.
I also would love to see more of us get back to regional style — the internet has kind of robbed us of what is unique to where we’re from. I don’t want that to be taken out of context; I’m super big on wearing what makes you happy & feel good, I just also really enjoyed the periods of time when streetwear was different depending on where you were.
What woman in streetwear/sneaker history would you like to see get her flowers?
April Walker, send her her flowers right now! It’s never too late, she deserves it all. If you don’t know who April Walker is and you love streetwear, please take the time to look into her work!