History and Style Guide to Iconic Converse High Top Sneakers

The Iconic Converse High Top Sneaker

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star high top is one of the most iconic sneakers ever made. Known for its simple canvas upper, rubber toe cap, and versatile style, the Converse high top has been popular since its debut over 100 years ago. This timeless shoe continues to be a wardrobe staple today, offering both men and women a casual and laidback look.

History of the Converse High Top

The Converse high top first appeared in 1917 as a basketball shoe. Designed by Marquis Mills Converse as an athletic shoe for the Converse Rubber Shoe Company, the shoe featured a durable rubber sole and flexible upper that provided ankle support and protection. In 1921, basketball player Charles "Chuck" Taylor joined Converse as a salesman and ambassador for the brand. He made some key changes to the shoe, like adding a patch to provide more ankle support. This signature model became known as the All Star or "Chucks" and with Taylor's name attached, it quickly became the best selling basketball shoe in the United States.

Rise to Cultural Icon Status

By the 1930s and 40s, the Chuck Taylor All Star had made the leap from athletic gear to casual footwear. The low price and versatility of high top Chucks made them appealing everyday shoes. Their popularity expanded outside of just sports to include fashion, music and street culture. Converse Chuck high tops became staples among various subcultures like artists, musicians and skateboarders who were attracted to the relaxed, bohemian vibe of the durable canvas shoes.

Some of the most iconic photographs in music and pop culture feature artists wearing classic black and white Converse high top sneakers, including The Ramones, The Clash, Kurt Cobain and the massively influential band, The Beatles. Generation after generation has embraced the laidback style of the Converse Chuck high tops, cementing their reputation as one of the most legendary shoes of all time.

Signature Design and Style

So what makes the Converse Chuck Taylor high top so special? One of the most iconic features is definitely the durable canvas fabric upper. Canvas allows for breathability and gives the flexible structure to the high top shoes. The rubber sole also provides superior traction and grip - ideal for athletic activities.

Design features like the rubber toe cap protect the front of the shoe, while the medial eyelets allow for enhanced ventilation. The famous All Star patch and Converse logo details add signature flair. Inside, cushioning at the heel and a supportive arch cookie provide comfort. And of course, the most defining aspect of any high top is the added ankle protection and support.

Customization and Contemporary Trends

Another aspect that makes Converse Chucks so widely appealing is the ability to customize them. The simple canvas upper serves as the perfect canvas for creative embellishments and unique looks. Converse fans can truly make their All Stars their own with an extensive range of patterns and prints to choose from.

In recent decades, Converse has also kept the iconic high tops feeling fresh and contemporary through special collections and collaborations. There are tons of limited edition high top designs featuring artwork or exclusive details from big brands and celebrities. For example, past partnerships have included Ambush, Chinatown Market, strand skateboards, Nintendo, Mademe, Carhartt and so many more. There are also specialty seasonal Chucks released for Pride, Black History Month and other significant events that allow fans to showcase what's important to them.

Converse High Top Colorways

While nothing beats the classic black and white look, Converse high tops are now available in pretty much every color under the sun. The two-tone combinations highlight everything from bright neons, to pastels, to rich primary shades. There are also many creative prints like florals, houndstooth, animal prints and more. Heavyweight options like leather, suede and corduroy put luxe twists on the iconic shoe. Some colors are highly sought after for their rarity and standout hues.

Most Popular Converse High Tops Styles

Some of the most popular high top styles include:

• Chuck Taylor All Star 70
• Chuck Taylor All Star Pride
• Customized Converse By You
• Chuck Taylor All Star Street Mid Top
• Chuck 70 Clear Weather High Top
• Chuck Taylor All Star Seasonal Colors
• Chuck Taylor All Star Luxe
• Chuck Taylor All Star Lightweight

Within these lines you'll find everything from limited edition seasonal looks, to affordable basics, to luxe leather upgrades of the iconic high top style.

How to Style Converse High Tops

The simplicity of Converse Chuck high tops allows them to be integrated effortlessly into any relaxed outfit. Though they first emerged as athletic shoes, today the iconic high tops work for so much more than sports. Chucks can be dressed up or down whether you're going for a grungy street style look, preppy vibe or boho inspired outfit.

Casual Looks

A classic pairing is jeans or shorts and a graphic t-shirt. This unfussy combo lets the Converse high tops shine as the focal point and epitomizes a carefree casual vibe. Distressed denim and neutral colored tops work well for an effortlessly cool look.

Edgy Style

Converse high tops also look awesome with edgier pieces like leather jackets, plaid trousers, band shirts and ripped black denim. Studs, spikes, chains and other punk rock accessories take the outfit up a notch. Finish it off by styling your hair in a slick-back ponytail, messy bun or bold mohawk.

Feminine Touches

For a flirty girly spin, start with a floral print dress or a velvet mini skirt. Pair the Chucks with lacy socks or opaque tights depending on the weather. Add delicate jewelry and a retro headband or bow for a sweet contrast with the high top shoes.

Business Casual/Preppy

Did you know classic Chucks can also work for business casual office outfits? Start with crisp chinos or a tight pencil skirt paired with a button-down or knit polo. Finish with a cropped blazer in a fun color or printed pattern to pull the look together. The iconic kicks feel playful compared to basic heels or dress shoes.

This gives off a smart yet approachable preppy style perfect for creative jobs. For guys, try layering a casual sport coat over a graphic tee and dark selvedge denim for a heritage skater vibe.

How to Care for Your Converse Chuck High Tops

With the proper care and maintenance, a good pair of Converse high top sneakers can last for years. Here are some tips for keeping your iconic Chucks in great shape:

Break Them In

Brand new Chuck high tops can feel stiff and rigid right out of the box. Help soften them up by wearing them around the house to gently stretch the canvas. The shoes will mold to your feet the more you wear them.

Clean Regularly

Over time dirt, dust, and stains are sure to accumulate on those crisp white Chucks. Use a soft bristle brush and toothbrush with gentle soap and water to scrub away debris. Always let them fully air dry before wearing again.

Store Properly

To help retain their structure and shape, be sure to stuff your Converse with newspaper or shoe trees when not being worn. This helps wick away moisture and maintains the form of the kicks. Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Customize and Repair

Part of the beauty of Chuck high tops is making them your own over time. Embrace scuffs and wear as evidence of all the memories you've made in those shoes. However if damage does occur, touch up paint pens help cover canvas flaws. Replace worn laces to keep them looking crisp.

Add your own artistic details like fabric paint, studs, patches and glitter for customization. This gives dull Chucks new life and a signature look that represents your personal style.

FAQs

What makes Converse high tops so popular?

Converse high tops have endured over 100 years as an iconic, versatile sneaker loved for its simple canvas style, athletic roots and reasonable price. Its timeless look works with jeans, shorts, skirts and so many ensembles. The customization potential also attracts creative individuals to make the shoes their own.

Why were Converse Chuck high tops initially designed?

The original Converse high top shoe debuted in 1917 exclusively as a basketball sneaker. The high cut was intended to offer added ankle support and protection for athletes. Not long after, the durable construction and laidback style attracted non-athletes who appreciated the comfort and look of Chucks for everyday casual wear.

What is the meaning behind the name Chuck Taylor?

In 1921, basketball player Charles "Chuck" Taylor joined Converse as an ambassador and salesman. His input lead to design changes like improved ankle support that catered even more to athletic performance. Converse honored his contributions by adding his signature to the iconic All Star patch on every pair sold from then on.

Should you wear Converse high tops every day?

While Converse high tops are very durable and long-lasting shoes, it's best not to wear the same pair every single day. Allowing canvas Chuck Taylors a day to air out helps prevent moisture buildup inside that could breed odor and bacteria. Having 2-3 pairs to rotate extends the lifespan of the shoes.