From Great Sneakers, Great Pants
Sure, you’ve heard of leather Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers. But how about leather Converse Chuck Taylor pants?
For its third team-up with the Osaka boutique IMA:ZINE, Converse Japan has reimagined its most ubiquitous sneaker as a pair of pants.
Much like past projects (which include pleated wool pants), the Converse for IMA:ZINE trousers borrow elements from Chuck Taylor footwear.
In this case, the wide leather trousers echo a recent luxe leather Chuck Taylor rework by Converse Addict, a Japan-exclusive line that reimagines Converse’s heritage silhouettes with premium materials like Vibram soles and thick canvas uppers.
The pants and the sneakers don’t just look similar, they share textures.
The shoes’ laces and the drawstring for the pants’ adjustable waist are made of the same simple cotton, for instance, circled by identical metal eyelets.
Though inspired by its American counterpart, Converse’s Japanese branch operates as a fully independent brand. Unlike in America, where Converse is owned by Nike, the Japanese conglomerate Itochu owns the trademark for Japan.
Converse Japan is full of surprises. This year alone, it created a suave penny loafer and slick, moccasin-style All-Star. It also has a penchant for creating suave clothing, including collarless blazers with concealed buttons.
It wouldn’t be a Converse Japan drop, however, without that one obvious caveat. Retailing for ¥43,000 (about $284), the pants are sold exclusively through IMA:ZINE’s Osaka store and website.
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