US’ Converse has enlisted Brooklyn-based jewellery and accessories designer Martine Ali, French fashion designer Isabel Marant, and Chinese-born, London-based menswear designer Feng Chen Wang to explore new dimensions of its DNA by offering the classic Chuck Taylor silhouette as inspiration.

First up, Martine Ali will present her take on the new Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge with a radically sculpted, angular midsole as its centrepiece. The newest addition to the De Luxe family provides nearly four inches of elevation and touts an asymmetric squared toecap and full leather upper, embracing the classic design language of the beloved Chuck Taylor All Star while boasting a boldness all its own, Converse said in a press release.

Converse collaborates with designers Martine Ali, Isabel Marant, and Feng Chen Wang, reimagining the Chuck Taylor silhouette.
Ali introduces the Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge, featuring a sculpted midsole, asymmetric squared toecap, and leather upper.
Inspired by waders, it allows for two distinct styles, with or without gaiters and sports an all-black design.

Martine’s exploration of the silhouette drew inspiration from waders, ultimately finding an expression of the De Luxe Wedge that is both transformative and refined. Unlike any other offering in the Converse portfolio, Martine’s also features the opportunity for two distinct expressions—with and without gaiters.

Synonymous with New York styling, the silhouette debuts entirely in black with stud closures marking the upper, a nod to Martine’s signature metallic finishes. Crafted to be adjustable, breathable yet durable, the gaiters attach to the studs and feature minimal co-branding, full-length zippers, and wax laces for unrestricted styling.

“As a designer, I create items that allow for the wearer to also be the creator,” said Martine. “With the wedge, I designed a shoe that becomes what you want it to be. Casual to dressy, low key or even loud. High or low. It was important for me to make something that went from day to night, something that can be worn by anyone to anything. It feels like the ultimate shoe for self-expression.”

The Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge is the latest example of Converse repurposing its DNA as a platform to advance style, fit, form, and function. As Converse builds the future, it will continue to provide opportunities for the creative expression of those who, like Martine Ali, are shaping culture.

The Converse x Martine Ali Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge debuts globally on December 1, 2023, on the official online Converse platform and at select global retailers. In Europe, the collection will go on sale at select retailers in early 2024.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB)