When it comes to luxury fashion, a certain set of highly esteemed and globally renowned fashion houses spring to mind, with a focus always on quality and timeless, classic pieces that will last for years to come. But while the art of luxury dressing is unlikely to ever shift away from these cornerstones of fine attire and stylish dressing, in recent years, a surprising trend has slowly but surely begun to emerge, and it has changed the face of luxury dressing forever.
While once upon a time, the standards of high-end fashion were rigorous, the rise of athleisure we’ve seen over the past decade or so has seen a much more casual and laid-back approach to creating outfits come into play, and while many big name luxury fashion brands have pioneered the trend, more mainstream sports brands like Nike, Converse and Adidas have been finding their way into the outfits of celebrities and fashion influencers alike.
Fashion is all about edgy dressing and trend-setting, and that means the rules are repeatedly getting broken. In 2023, we’re combining ultra-casual trainers and gym gear with opulent and expensive designer garments, and it turns out, it works surprisingly well.
One of the most surprising new arrivals on the luxury fashion scene? The iconic Converse trainer – which might seem unlikely, but has in fact become an unexpected staple amongst the very best dressed fashionistas across the globe.
Here, we dive a little deeper into just how the humble Converse trainer has cemented its position in the world of high-end fashion – and why you, too, should add a pair to your wardrobe this year.
The rise of casual chic
One of the key factors contributing to the popularity of Converse trainers in luxury fashion is of course, the rise of athleisure, which itself has spawned a newer sub-trend that is widely dubbed ‘casual chic’. Where once, casual dressing was viewed as the very antithesis of luxury, today, it has become part and parcel, with a widespread shift towards relaxed dressing and off-duty style blurring the lines between our favourite sports gear and the lavish brands we love.
Converse trainers have become popular because they provide maximum comfort whilst adding an edgy, street-inspired element to any look. Where dresses and skirts were once only ever paired with heels, today, we’re dressing them down with sneakers and plimsols for a more versatile outfit that will take us effortlessly from a day out shopping to evening drinks with friends.
Converse trainers perfectly embody this fusion, offering a comfortable and versatile footwear option that adds a touch of nonchalant coolness to any outfit. From tailored suits to flowing dresses, the juxtaposition of Converse trainers against more formal attire creates an unexpected and visually striking ensemble.
Iconic design
Converse trainers are nothing new – but that’s all part of their charm. With a long history behind them, they have achieved iconic status and become instantly recognisable from their logo alone, as well as their timeless style, which is one of those rarities that never seems to go out of fashion.
The world of luxury fashion has always respected brands, as well as individual garments and accessories, that have held that timeless appeal, which is perhaps why Converse trainers have become so widely accepted as a symbol of style. And, the brand’s heritage means it is more than capable of holding its own against the luxury fashion brands we love.
Inspired collaborations
One of the clearest things a brand like Converse can do to stay relevant is to invest in some well-thought out collaborations, and that is exactly what it has done. Teaming up with big names like JW Anderson, Comme des Garcons and Off White has helped the brand to create excitement around its trainers despite rarely deviating from their classic design, and a few simple embellishments here and there to put a unique stamp on them has meant that the demand for the latest pair of Converse shoes always remains high.
Creating a buzz in such a way is something that luxury brands are no stranger to, and the art of creating highly sought-after, limited-edition collections enhances the sense of exclusivity and scarcity that is often associated with them. It’s something that Converse, despite being a more casual fashion brand, has emulated so well, and is undoubtedly one of the reasons a pair of Converse trainers have become the ultimate fashion staple of the decade.
