The Converse x Kim Jones Collab Reworks a Classic

British fashion designer Kim Jones has a brand new collab with legendary sportswear brand Converse launching at converse.com on April 8 and set to release in Manila real soon. This time around, the artistic director of both Dior Men’s as well as Fendi womenswear and couture has revamped Converse’s timeless and universally loved Chuck 70.

More than just choosing what colors to throw on it and slapping his branding on the product, this project between Jones and Converse has resulted in two covet-worthy colorways of a very well thought of reinterpretation of a classic silhouette. 

Photo by Converse.

Utilitarian treatment

Staying true to the DNA of such an iconic sneaker, Jones gives the Chuck 70 a utilitarian treatment inspired by style from the late 90s. Most noticeable is the familiar canvas upper of the Chuck 70 now enveloped in a translucent protective TPU cage. A varnished rubber overlay and speed-lace system alternate with traditional eyelets of the shoe.

Photo by Converse.

Another obvious change is along the usually flat sidewall of the shoe. Jones introduces us to a new biomorphic one that extends to both the toe cap and a modern heel counter, presenting the illusion of a thicker elevated midsole. The bottom is also given an overhaul with a new diamond-patterned outsole. The fashion visionary’s name appears in worn lettering on the shoe’s tongue.

Capsule collection

Apart from the Chuck 70, which comes in natural ivory and black colorways, Jones has also designed an ensemble of four garments comprised of this co-branded capsule collection. An oversized tee, twill five-pocket cargo pant, crewneck sweater in French terry, and a water-resistant parka all evoke a pre-millennium vibe, back when dressing like a fashionista handyman was a thing. Admit it. We all went through that carpenter jeans phase back in the day and loved it.

Photo by Converse.

The Converse x Kim Jones Chuck 70 along with the t-shirt, cargo pant, and crewneck will be available soon in limited quantities at Converse Powerplant, Commonwealth, and Akimbo.