CONVERSE AND MARTINE ALI CELEBRATE A SECOND COLLABORATION WITH THE RETURN OF THE CHUCK 70 XXHI
Nostalgic Take on the Chuck Taylor and Apparel Capsule to Debut During London Fashion Week at Converse’s New Edge London Event
Part of Converse’s legacy is based on its continual celebration and reinvention of its classics, taking inspiration from its archives to shape where it’ll go next. Martine Ali is a creative whose brand has also been influenced by era-defining trends, offering nostalgic, subversive characteristics to her accessories. Reuniting to remix classic silhouettes, Converse and Martine Ali align for a second time to present a take on the Chuck 70 XXHi. Inspired by the beloved 2006 silhouette, the pair leverage their position at the forefront of empowering bold style to drive limitless self-expression via Martine’s lens of future-forward design
Utilizing the Chuck 70 as its foundation, the silhouette touts a lengthened, 14-inch upper that comes up to the knee. Martine’s own personal style is reflected in the seven straps and buckles that run up the silhouette, nodding to the exaggerated accessorizing that once defined fashion in the 2000s. An extra-long set of laces allow adjustments to the silhouette’s width, while a zipper along the back ensures they can be put on easily.
True to Martine’s brand DNA, the silhouette is made with adaptability in mind. Much like her jewellery, the Chuck 70 XXHi carries an added element of modularity, serving as a canvas waiting to be reconceptualized. The silhouette will be offered in a monochrome washed black denim upper with a corresponding Chuck patch, midsole, lace, and toecap. In addition, five press studs and four zig-zag stitched accents continue Martine’s design essence of versatility, allowing customisation via add-on chains or jewellery from her eponymous line.
Accompanying apparel was also created for the launch - a jacket, skirt, hoodie and tee - reflective of Martine’s personal style and crafted with adaptable design. The jacket is inspired by welding attire and features snap-on mechanisms that transform a cropped jacket into a full-coverage one. Contrast stitching and a collapsible hood that folds into the collar fuels even more styling options for the piece. The skirt is comprised of two panels made of utility fabrics, allowing it to be worn either as a mini or maxi. Cargo-type pockets ensure functionality and zig-zag stitching enables accessory placement.
The collection will first be unveiled during London Fashion Week when Martine Ali - alongside creatives Rifke, Tigris, and Audrey Large - joins Converse at 180 Studios for the brand’s New Edge London event on February 15 and 16. In addition to the new silhouette being on display, the interactive exhibit will showcase Converse’s newest forms of expression and conceptualize varying takes on the future of style. The event will open to the public on February 16 with a sign-up link HERE.
Following the initial reveal in London, the Converse x Martine Ali collection will launch on March 21, 2024 on Converse.com and select global retailers.
