Converse Taps Martine Ali and Others to Push the Edges of the Chuck Taylor All Star’s Iconic DNA

Converse has enlisted Brooklyn-based jewelry and accessories designer Martine Ali, French fashion designer Isabel Marant and Chinese-born, London-based menswear designer Feng Chen Wang to explore new dimensions of its DNA that help push the bounds of the brand further than ever before.

Each of the designers are known for charting new paths and redefining the status quo, so Converse has offered the iconic Chuck Taylor silhouette as inspiration, a building block and catalyst for creativity to define what’s next.

First up, Martine Ali will present her take on the new Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge with a radically sculpted, angular midsole as its centerpiece. The newest addition to the De Luxe family provides nearly four inches of elevation and touts an asymmetric squared toecap and full leather upper, embracing the classic design language of the beloved Chuck Taylor All Star while boasting a boldness all its own. 

Martine's exploration of the silhouette drew inspiration from waders, ultimately finding an expression of the De Luxe Wedge that is both transformative and refined. Unlike any other offering in the Converse portfolio, Martine’s also features the opportunity for two distinct expressions — with and without gaiters.

Synonymous with New York styling, the silhouette debuts entirely in black with stud closures marking the upper, a nod to Martine's signature metallic finishes. Crafted to be adjustable, breathable yet durable, the gaiters attach to the studs and feature minimal co-branding, full-length zippers and wax laces for unrestricted styling.

“As a designer, I create items that allow for the wearer to also be the creator,” says Martine. “With the wedge, I designed a shoe that becomes what you want it to be. Casual to dressy, low key or even loud. High or low. It was important for me to make something that went from day to night, something that can be worn by anyone to anything. It feels like the ultimate shoe for self expression.”

The Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge is the latest example of Converse repurposing its DNA as a platform to advance style, fit, form and function. As Converse builds the future, it will continue to provide opportunities for the creative expression of those who, like Martine Ali, are shaping culture.

The Converse x Martine Ali Chuck 70 De Luxe Wedge debuts globally on December 1, 2023, on Converse.com and select global retailers. In Europe, the collection will go on sale at select retailers in early 2024.