Converse + Maison Martin Margiela
A coat of paint turns street style icons into a high-end fashion collaboration
Sneaker brand Converse—the longtime staple—has just unveiled the latest First String collaboration. This time, for their luxe limited edition collaboration, experimental Parisian fashion house Maison Martin Margiela takes a fresh approach to the iconic Chuck Taylor All Star and Jack Purcell lines by way of white-washing. This first time collaboration, “perfectly embodies each
brand’s spirit of individuality and self-expression unifying Converse and Margiela’s conviction of unleashing creativity,” says senior Converse designer of the collection Matt Sleep. For shoes made for walking the streets, they definitely emit a unique and explosive high-end fashion vibe.
The matte-styling covers all of the canvas, eyelets, laces and soles. Hand-painted in Margiela’s trademark white, each pair is designed to crack naturally and slowly reveal the true colors beneath. The shoes evolve as they are worn, offering a blossom of colored canvas personality. The four sub-color styles are based upon the heritage colors of Converse’s archives: red, black, navy and—a Margiela exclusive—vintage yellow. All are lined in premium off-white leather. The craftsmanship is noteworthy, but the final product is both thoughtful and daring. Many CH staffers and readers have worn Converse sneakers until they fall apart, which bodes well for the Maison Martin Margiela sneakers, as a whole new development unfolds over time.
The Converse Maison Martin Margiela sneakers will be available for purchase globally in September at Margiela stores, and at select Converse First String retailers for $200.
Photos by David Graver
