Fits: Little Laces on Sneaker Collecting, Style & Story in Phoenix
HÓZHÓ Concierge ·
Little Laces
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Laura Laces (@little_laces) has quietly built one of the most curated sneaker collections in Arizona. With nearly two decades in the game, her style blends streetwear edge with elevated, intentional pieces—less about hype and more about storytelling.
From early sneaker pickups to rare grails, Laura's collection reflects a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, culture, and individuality. Whether she's pairing vintage denim with heat on-foot or styling outfits around statement sneakers, her approach is effortless—but never accidental.
It's the same mindset we see from guests who stay with HÓZHÓ—people who care about experience, detail, and how everything comes together. Style isn't just what you wear; it's how you live.
We caught up with Laura to talk about where it all started, the pieces that matter most, and what she's looking forward to in 2026.
Where It All Started
Q: How long have you been collecting sneakers, and what first got you into it?
Laura: "I've been collecting for about 19 years now. It started pretty organically. I was into skateboarding and the culture surrounding it, and streetwear and fashion naturally became an extension of that. At some point, I realized I wasn't just buying shoes—I was chasing them."
Q: Do you remember your first real grail purchase?
Laura: "Yeah, it was actually three pairs I bought together: the 1991 Air Jordan 6 'Maroon,' the Nike KD 4 'Weatherman,' and the Nike SB Dunk High 'Skunk' (420). I had been hunting for them in my size for a while. Nothing too crazy by today's standards, but at the time it felt huge. I remember getting them and just staring at them thinking, 'What's next? I want more.'"
The Grails That Matter
Q: What's the most you've ever spent on a pair—and was it worth it?
Laura: "I've definitely crossed into that 'this is probably irresponsible' territory a few times. But honestly, if it's a pair you've been thinking about for years and you finally pull the trigger, it's worth it. It's always been more about the story than the price."
Q: What's your favorite sneaker in your collection right now?
Laura: "That's a tough one, but my go-to pair is something I can actually wear often. Right now, I love my Nike Dunk Low 'Cacao Wow.' Brown is a staple in my wardrobe, and I love pieces that don't just sit on a shelf—they're part of my rotation. My favorite pair is always the one that makes an outfit feel complete the second I put it on."
Q: Is there a pair you'll never part with?
Laura: "Definitely. There are a few that have too much meaning behind them, but my Air Jordan 1 High '85 Chicago will never leave my collection. They were a gift from one of my followers, and it's something I'll always be grateful for."
Style & Intention
Q: How would you describe your style today compared to when you started?
Laura: "It's way more refined now. I used to chase hype and whatever was rare or hard to get, but now it's all about balance—mixing everyday basics with one statement piece and sneakers that complement an outfit instead of overpowering it."
Q: How do sneakers influence your overall look?
Laura: "You'd think sneakers would be the starting point for every outfit, but honestly they're not. I usually decide what I'm wearing first, then pick the sneaker that elevates the look and ties everything together. It feels more effortless that way."
Looking Ahead to 2026
Q: What are you most excited about in 2026 as far as releases or trends?
Laura: "I'm excited to see older silhouettes come back. It feels like sneaker culture is shifting away from hype and resale value and back toward nostalgia and storytelling. I'm also keeping an eye on a few collaborations from Off-White and Kids of Immigrants."
Q: What advice would you give someone just getting into sneaker collecting?
Laura: "Buy what you actually like. Don't chase what everyone else is chasing. Your collection should feel like you, not like a checklist. And don't feel like you have to spend a fortune to get started—you can find really cool sneakers at Ross, Marshalls, outlet stores, or secondhand if you know where to look."
In a space often dominated by hype cycles and resale culture, Laura Laces brings sneaker collecting back to what matters most: personal style, intention, and the story behind every pair.
Whether it's the sneakers you collect or the spaces you choose to spend time in, the details are what define the experience. It's that same philosophy behind HÓZHÓ—creating environments where everything is considered so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
And as 2026 approaches, one thing is clear: the next wave of sneaker culture isn't just about what's dropping—it's about how you wear it.
Stay tuned for more blogs featuring Fits.
