Deemed long overdue by some, Converse has finally collaborated with Tokyo’s NEIGHBORHOOD on a first-ever First String collection. Featuring two of Converse’s most iconic silhouettes, i.e. the Jack Purcell Johnny Mid and All Star Chuck ’70, this collection will offer a modern take on classic Japanese style.
The collection features two of Converse’s most iconic staples; the Jack Purcell Johnny Mid and All Star Chuck ’70 Ox in very premium iterations. For Holiday 2013, NEIGHBORHOOD subtly updated the familiar silhouettes by adding their own unique vision while keeping the sneakers’ design DNA intact. The Jack Purcell is realized in deep petrol blue leather with tonal stitching, while the All Star Chuck ‘70 has a plush royal blue suede upper with white contrast thread.
Both have clean white midsoles and toecaps, allowing the seemingly basic color blocking to stand out while complimenting many seasonal looks. But where the All Star Chuck ‘70 loses its traditional rand stripe, the Jack Purcell retains its signature toe-smile. Each sneaker comes with canvas linings, metal eyelets and an extra set of contrast cotton laces, as well as NEIGHBORHOOD branded metal lace tips that add a premium detail to their finish.
Bringing to life the subtle play on luxury that is synonymous with the NEIGHBORHOOD brand, tonal woven heel strips run vertically up the back of each sneaker, adding a refined feel to the two-pair collection.
“The lattices were inspired by NEIGHBORHOOD’s love of motorcycle culture,” says Matt Sleep, Senior Designer Converse First String. “They are a significant subcultural reference that we hoped would add a uniquely crafted element to these Converse icons.”
Converse First String is a limited-edition collection that celebrates craftsmanship, authenticity and collaboration at the highest level. The NEIGHBORHOOD for Converse Sneaker Collection will be available in limited quantities, beginning on Friday, October 25 at HOODS in Hong Kong, Union in Los Angeles and El Garito de Converse in Madrid. Select Converse First String retailers across the globe will follow on Friday, November 1. The sneakers will retail for a MSRP of $120 USD and will be available in men’s sizing from US 8-12.
via Nike