As the originator of the basketball sneaker and the creative force behind Chuck Taylors, Converse could easily be pigeon-holed as simply a shoe company. After all, itβs been making iconic canvas kicks for more than 100 years. In fact, since its inception in 1908, the brand has become synonymous with easy, breezy coolness β in shoe or apparel form. While most famous for the βAll Starβ basketball shoe, so named in 1920, the brand's hoodies and track jackets deserve the same iconic status. Why? Because Converse is about so much more than just the shoes and clothes: itβs about crafting head-to-toe, classic, street-style looks. So, when shopping the star-and-chevron, make sure to look beyond those feet.
Better Together
Why stick to a one-storied clothing label, when fusing two is an option? Brand collaborations are having a major moment in every arena, from tortilla chips to running shoes. Collaborations allow labels to combine personalities, building a hybrid creation that channels the best of both creators.Β Nike shoesΒ andΒ clothingΒ have long embraced designer collabs. Which means itβs not surprising that Converse has joined in since being acquired by the Swoosh in 2003. Now, you can browse Converse x Miley Cyrus or Converse x Hello Kitty alongside classic pieces like logo-printedΒ hoodies. Buh-bye boredom, hello wardrobe expansion!
All in the Family
With Nike on board, Converse has recovered from its near-extinction in the 1990s. And, thanks to the new energy, even old-favorite sneaker styles have been reinvigorated with fresh appeal. Of course, there are endless variations of Chuck Taylors, and these will never get old. Truly. But to grow with Converse, branch out as the brand has: Embrace new styles such as the All Star Ox and All Star Love the Progress. These shoes move past the emblematic star-and-chevron into new territories of print, pattern, and even materials. (Yes, the consummate canvas shoe brand is all over new fabrics β just peep that leather python All Star Alpha Hi!) Still cool and casual, but with a brand-new spin that's completely now.
