Converse are killing it with the collaborations right now...
It might sound hypberbolic, but the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star is probably the most recognisable and iconic sports shoe in the world.
As well as being iconic they're completely universal - it doesn't matter who you are or how you dress, you can chuck a pair on and look amazing.
Not content with having just one iconic silhouette, the company changed the game again in 1974 when their first dropped the Converse One Star and revolutionised the basketball sneaker.
Both the Chuck Taylor and the One Star have remained pretty true to their original design over the years, however that's not to say Converse haven't taken some creative liberties. Over the years they've collaborated with different brands, designers, artists and creatives, who've all put their unique spin on these classic silhouettes.
Here are seven of the best...
1.Converse x A$AP Nast
If you've not come across A$AP Nast (real name Tariq Devega) he's an American rapper, model and member of hip-hop collective A$AP Mob. While other members such as A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg have made lasting impressions on the fashion world with their collabs with brands such as Adidas and Guess Jeans, Nast proved he's the true tastemaker in the group with this classy and subtle collection. Nast stayed away from overt branding and instead took inspiration from his love of mid-century furniture to deliver a version of the Chuck Taylor and One Star that utilise fabrics such as a corduroy and plaid in a unique and exciting way.
If you're lucky enough to own these, pair them with....
2.Converse x NEIGHBORHOOD
Last year Converse teamed up with Japanese streetwear heavy weights NEIGHBORHOOD, for a beautifully understated collection celebrating the Chuck Taylor and One Star. Although the collab sold out instantly it's since taken a back seat to other more high profile collections, but those who know still have a strong appreciation for how well this was done. NEIGHBORHOOD are heavily influenced by Americana and American counter-culture which lead to them drawing inspiration from American bikers and the fashion of that subculture.
If you're lucky enough to own either of these pair them with....
3.Converse x Off Whiteᵀᴹ
What more can be said about these really? Virgil Abloh changed the sneaker game so much with his The Ten collection, and including the Chuck Taylor was perhaps the icing on the extremely hard-to-get cake. These are crazy. The last part of the collection to drop, some fans were thinking they'd never come, but the Off Whiteᵀᴹ Chucks have finally been given a release date for the 12th May (just days away now!), so get ready to take the biggest L.
If you're lucky enough to actually cop these (then I'm very jealous) pair them with....
4. Converse x Tyler, the Creator
Possibly Converse's most successful collab to date? Either way it's certainly made an impact. When Tyler, the Creator announced he was going to leave Vans to partner with Converse people were intrigued, and when the first ever GOLF le FLEUR surfaced people were rightly hyped. Tyler's loud and colourful style comes through fully in all of these collections, making them the ideal shoe to rock this summer and a great way to get some colour in your wardrobe.
If you're lucky enough to own these, pair them with....
5.Converse x Miley Cyrus
Not exactly streetwear, but the Miley Cyrus converse collection is definitely pushing the boundaries of the Chuck Taylor. Her debut collection features some big, bold and glittery iterations of the the classic silhouette and was designed to reflect Miley's personality and style. These would definitely make a nice addition to your summer wardrobe, especially during festival season.
If you're lucky enough to own these, pair them with....
6.Converse x Carhartt WIP
What happens when two brands with a storied heritage and a lot of streetwear clout meet for a collab? Something mad, that's what. When Carhartt and Converse announced their joint collection fans of workwear and durability rejoiced. Each shoe was fitted with classic fabrics that helped turn Carhartt into the brand they are today and decorated with their trademark colours, such as Hamilton Brown and Tiger Camo. These were severely slept on but eventually sold out, and we're hoping they weren't a one time thing...
If you're lucky enough to own these, pair them with....
7.Converse x Porter Yoshida & Co.
These are most likely the hardest collab to come by on this list. A Japanese exclusive designed by luxury luggage brand Porter Yoshida & Co. these are the very definition of a myth. The details surrounding this collection were scarce but we do know they were made from premium and durable material and featured incredibly nice orange that almost justified the plane ticket to Japan.
