I have a confession to make: I own way too many pairs of shoes. My favorites are my pointed-toe flats and my summer boots, but even as my wallet gets skinnier, there’s another pair I can’t live without: my Converse sneakers.
They’re comfortable, colorful, and perfect for all of our favorite summer activities. These shoes have been around for over 100 years, and they’re still as hot as ever.
Read on to find out the history behind these classic kicks.
History of Converse
- Converse rubber shoes were born in 1908. Marquis Mills Converse published the company philosophy in their first catalog, calling his shoe enterprise one that would be “independent enough not to follow every other company in every thing they do.” As true to the mission today as they were then, Converse prides themselves on original footwear that’s both functional and stylish.
- The iconic Chuck Taylor joined the Converse team 10 years later. He was passionate about the shoes he wore to play basketball and wanted the best players wearing the best sneakers for the job. He succeeded. In the NCAA championship game of 1939, both teams wore Converse.
- Converse sneakers weren’t meant just for sports. As rubber production shifted to help the war effort in 1942, Converse sneakers were worn by the entire U.S. Army Air Corp, as well as soldiers completing basic training.
- Converse sneakers weren’t viewed as everyday shoes until the late ’70s and early ’80s, when popular groups like The Ramones wore them on stage. Perfect for fast-paced performance, Converse sneakers grew into their new reputation as the perfect casual shoe.
- Today, Converse sneakers come in a variety of styles, reflecting their evolution from sporting staple to fashionista must-have. Check out their Facebook page to see photos of their offerings and learn more about the company.
Why We Still Love This Trend
Me with my favorite sneakers!
What’s not to love about Converse? There are a zillion reasons we all love these shoes, but here are three big ones:
- They’re easy to wear. Shopping all day? Attending a concert? Converse to the rescue! When I’m going to have a long day on my feet, my Converse sneakers are always my go-to option. They’re comfy and look great with almost anything. Dress up a basic tank and jeans with a cute patterned pair, or dress down a summer sundress with Converse in a contrasting color for a fresh look.
- They’re for a cause. Converse teamed up with (RED) in 2006, actively joining in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We love brands that fight for what’s right!
- They’re customizable. Haven’t found a style that’s totally you? Create your own! Customizing your Converse is a great way to show off your unique style with a shoe that’s ready for anything.
Let’s Chat!
Do Converse sneakers have a spot in your wardrobe? How do you style them? Any other trend you’d like to see covered? We’d love to hear about it so leave a comment below!
Yep. I have at least 30 pair. Some for all seasons.
OMG! What a cool site with great fashion!! Love this.
I was just wondering if you could share some tips to those who dont want to show their legs in summer. I know it sounds weird, but I have a lots of trouble dealing with my vitligo, which is a skin-disease… I have it on my knees. Do you have some ideas for outfits? 🙂
I Just bought another pair of converses a few days ago to add to my small collection. (I have now 6 pairs) I love converse shoes. Not only are they super comfy if your going to be on your feet all day but with the color and style selection converse goes with damn near everything!
@Lynne- I have shoes with white bottoms like that and whenever they start to look grungy I scrub them with baking soda. Makes them look as good as new! Hope that helps. 🙂
LOVE my converse! I don’t wear them very often though… It would be awesome to see a post with ideas on how to wear them with different types of outfits.. Especially the high top ones! I’ve only ever worn mine with jeans and would like to get more use out of them!
I LOVE my vintage red Converse! They’re comfy, and nothing says iconic Converse like red hi-tops! Every girl needs a pair or two in her closet, definitely.
I’ve owned a few pairs of converse, they’re not too bad, but I don’t think they’re comfortable enough, for me, to hang out in all day, the seam where the rubber meets the fabric on the toe always gives me blisters. :[ I like my Vans much better, I can walk all day in them.
Rose- Neither did I! That’s one of the reasons I love writing this series, because you learn so much. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Lynne- Chuck Taylor has some tips for you. Good luck! http://chucksconnection.com/tips.html
Suggestion: Hello Kitty
ok i have black converse and all i wear with them is jeans and a t-shirt and thats gets boring after awhile… so do you no any super cute out fits i can wear with my black ones????
Love this!
I tried on a pair of red, white, and blue Converse the other day, and I can’t wait till I need new sneakers haha!
I love my converse!! I would die without them(: <3 they're so comfy and fashionable and basically my favorite pair of shoes.
I love them but they’re that comfortable and they make my feet look way bigger than they are. 🙁
We’re did u get these from!?:) x
im soooo crazzy in love with converse ! i love all the colors and wear converse with everything !!!!!!!!! 🙂