This year marks the official 100-year-anniversary of the Converse sneaker, a prominent part of the American fashion scene and the favored footwear of millions of people across the world. The original Converse All Star "Chuck Taylor" Shoe first appeared in stores all the way back in 1917 and was originally intended as a new style of athletic sneaker designed especially for basketball players. However, Converse gained widespread attention in the fashion world in the early 1970s, and soon became a symbol of laid-back comfort and counter-culture. Everyone from the Ramones to Blondie to Kurt Cobain expressed a fondness for the canvas lace-ups, giving the brand new appeal among anyone attracted to the alternative, rock 'n' roll lifestyle.
Even today, rebellious celebrities like Taylor Momsen and Kristen Stewart are often spotted on the streets sporting a trusty pair of 'Chucks'. Of course, you don't need to be a basketball champion or rockstar to pull off the shoe in your own day-to-life.
Here are a few different suggestions on how to incorporate the Converse 'cool' into your personal style:
1. Business Casual
Who says sneakers aren't office appropriate? Times have certainly changed from when the classic skirt and suit combos was the only 9-5 option. Nowadays,casual street-inspired business clothes are becoming more and more popular, especially in the tech and PR fields. While I wouldn't suggest wearing them a pair to a high-profile law firm or behind the desk of a bank, you shouldn't completely limit Converse to your days off. The trick to pulling off this style without looking sloppy is to make sure the rest of your ensemble is conservative, tailored, and obviously free from any rips or stains. Ditch your pumps for the morning and try pairing your Chucks with a fitted blazer, white t, and pair of colorful slacks.
2. Short Shorts and High Tops
In the warmer months, swap your skinny jeans for a pair of denim cutoffs and pair them with the classic high-top Converse for a summer look that manages to be both adorably flirty and effortlessly cool. ( Although you do take the risk of ending up with some minor ankle-high tan lines).
3. Girly-Sporty
To quote the wise words of Demi Lovato's song "La La Land". "Who said I can't wear my Converse with my dress?" By mixing and matching the soft femininity of skirts and dresses with the more traditionally masculine feel of the sneaker, you instantly create a look that perfectly transitions from daytime errands to date-night.
Go for a brightly colored or patterned version of the shoe rather than the classic black or white options for that extra attention-grabbing style boost!
4. Polished Prep
At first glance, the idea of combining Converse with "preppy fashion" may feel like a total contradiction, but never fear! It is possible to add some polish to the typically chill footwear. If your vibe leans more towards polos, tennis skirts, and pastels, consider investing in a pair of pristine white Converse for an incredibly versatile addition to your wardrobe.
5. Grunge Revival
Has there ever been a more perfect combination than Converse and grunge? Embrace your inner rebellious skater chic by slipping on your beat-up sneaks over a pair of ripped tights for a daringly edgy appearance. And since we're currently in the middle of a huge 90s fashion revival, take advantage of all the nostalgia by putting the shoes together with everything from plaid skirts to floral baby doll dresses to denim overalls.
Finish the entire thing off with a choker and some brown lipstick and you're instantly ready to rock!
Now that you've got all your tips, you're ready to slip on your kicks and hit the streets. And remember: Hey now, You're an All-Star.
