Quenlin Blackwell Brings Birkin Bag Energy to Complex's Sneaker Shopping

The internet’s it-girl discusses her journey from Texas outlet malls to luxury sneaker shopping, all while testing shoes with her Birkin bag.

Internet sensation Quenlin Blackwell made quite the entrance at Kith West Hollywood, arriving in rare MF Doom Nike SB Dunks for her episode of Complex's "Sneaker Shopping" with host Joe La Puma, which was released in June 2025. The comedian and model brought her signature chaotic energy—and her coveted Birkin bag—to what became one of the show's most entertaining episodes.

Complex's "Sneaker Shopping" has become a cultural phenomenon, with La Puma guiding celebrities through high-end sneaker boutiques while uncovering their footwear stories and shopping habits. The veteran host's extensive research was on full display, as he surprised Blackwell by unearthing a photo of her in the seventh grade wearing Vans, and asking about her early sneaker shopping excursions at the Allen Premium Outlet Mall's Nike Factory Store in Texas. "I feel like my mask, you just ripped it off,” she said.

Blackwell's sneaker journey started at those Texas outlets, where her mother would allow "one shoe every year." She stuck with clean white Air Forces and later became devoted to Vans slip-ons during her cheerleading days. "I didn't know you could have different sneakers," she admitted, reflecting on how her style has evolved.

The MF Doom Dunks she wore were a gift from a man who criticized her footwear choices, telling her she was "kinda wack with your sneaker game." His solution? Buying her the now-valuable kicks. When La Puma mentioned they're worth "a few thousand," Blackwell immediately performed her signature move—testing if they'd fit in her Birkin bag.

Throughout the shopping experience, La Puma guided the conversation while Blackwell showcased her unique perspective on footwear. She praised Puma Speedcats for being "chic" and "unisex" while dismissing Balenciaga's controversial mule designs as "Rumpelstiltskin Threes." When La Puma asked about her "goat sneaker," she chose sparkly Margielas, explaining her philosophy of pairing "demure, chic outfits with loud shoes."

The episode's highlight was Blackwell's "Birkin test"—determining if shoes fit properly in her luxury bag. After some credit card drama at checkout—including a sticker shock moment where she fainted in front of the register after seeing the final price of $2,105.03—she walked away with several new additions, proving that "Sneaker Shopping" continues to deliver both entertainment and genuine sneaker culture moments.

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