MEET SIMPLY B. SNEAKER COLLECTOR. PENNY HARDAWAY FANATIC. VINTAGE BABE. THRIFT FINDER. TRAIL BLAZER.

You may know "B" as Simply B on Instagram, but this Miami native has a deep rooted love for the sneaker game outside of just the social media streets. At CNK, we often preach that authenticity and originality are keys to captivating an audience. Simply B's passion for the sneaker game is woven into her everyday life, and it's easy to see she has been a collector for quite some time.

What stood out when approaching Simply B for a Chick Chat, was her love for finding sneaker deals and sharing those with her audience. Regardless if you were a veteran collector or a novice, Simply B found her happy place in shopping the best deals to highlight on her social media platform.

Having appreciation for OG sneakers is very relevant in a culture that thrives on the new hype. We got the honor to chat it up with Simply B on her favorite sneakers, what got her into the game, her creative side, and wearing what you like while having a damn good time.

LOVE AT FIRST SNEAKER...

I first fell in love with sneakers back in 2005. Went on a "sneaker run" with my friend Louie (he was going to purchase the Nike AirMax 97 True). After we decided to hit all the sneaker spots in Miami - our last stop was "M.I.A Skate Shop". I saw the pair of Nike FC Gino Iannucci. It was the first sneaker I picked up all day. He had me try them on. I fell in love with them! Been collecting ever since.

When I really started paying attention to sneakers I feel like Jordan retros were the most popular around my way [Miami, FL] and they really didn’t do it for me. My first love were dunks, & SBs.

THE HOLY GRAIL.

What started the love was the Nike FC Gino Iannucci, but the Nike Undefeated NL is the grail shoe. As for my current rotation, I wear a lot of Air Jordan 1s. I wear a pair at least once a week.

SHOP AIR JORDAN 1 STYLES BELOW

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO A SNEAKER LOVER ABOUT COLLECTING?

I’d say “buy whatever you like”. At the end of the day one has to feel confident in what they’re wearing. It’s not about buying the most expensive pair. I’ve found some of the best sneakers at outlet stores.

THE BIRTH OF #SNEAKERSEEKERB

I've always enjoyed searching for sneaker deals for fun. When I'd post about it on Instagram, I'd get comments about them. So I decided to share my finds. Giving other people the opportunity to purchase the sneaker deals as well. I decided not to charge because there's enough of that going on. The market is filled with resellers charging an upwards of double the price for sneakers. It's ridiculous.

I go shopping at discount stores and find amazing sneaker steals. Sneakers that retail at $100 or more, I've found for less than half the price. I wanted to show people they can still purchase name brand/popular shoes at a lower price. So now, when I find the sneakers that are highly sought after, I buy them and allow anyone to get them from me for the price I paid (plus the shipping costs). I post on my Instagram account and they just send me a message expressing interest in the sneakers. I don't make any profit, and I'm not interested in that. I'm just helping others out when I can.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE BRANDS DOING FOR THE LADIES...?

I would love to see more amazing collaborations exclusive to a women’s line. And quality! Quality shouldn’t be compromised in comparison to the mens line. [CNK Gang - Can we get an AMEN!]

Brands and retailers are recognizing the female consumers, but not actually putting in effort in the quality and exclusivity of products. Puma, Nike, and Adidas are making strides.

TODAY'S SNEAKER CULTURE - ALL HYPE?

That’s a tough one. There used to be a real passion for sneakers. Actually buying sneakers to rock. Now people are starting buy just for hype or to sell. It would be nice to see people get back to that.

SHOP NIKE SB DUNK STYLES BELOW

COLLECTOR TO CREATIVE... SECURE THE BAG.

I just wanted to make a product that I could see myself rocking. I didn’t expect it to get such amazing feedback. I’ll definitely be creating more designs soon.

We highlighted Simply B's "Simply Stacked" Bag on our 9 Female Owned Small Businesses We Are Shopping post.

NEW YEAR, MORE #CHICKSPIRATION

The women in my life drive me. They inspire me on a daily, from my mother to my girlfriends. I’m happy to say that I’m surrounded by amazing women.

When B is taking a brief break from shoes, you can catch her jammin' BJ the Chicago Kid or currently reading A Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes.

Catch more of Simply B's sneaker finds on Instagram, and keep a lookout for her online store where she will be restocking new items in the new year. If you have questions about her kicks or deal shopping strategy, email her HERE.

Chick Chat: Sneaker Seekin' With Simply B.