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    Casualties Of Wear: Converse x Maison Martin Margiela 2014 Release

    42.3601° N, 71.0589° W

    "Maison Martin Margiela Is Known for Its deconstructive and avant-garde designs with unconventional materials"

    Casualties of Wear is a monthly series that showcases iconic pieces that have been well-worn and appreciated by their owners. Every item has a story to tell. The creases, the scuffs, the tears, and the stains are there for a reason. It’s your go to season after season. It’s our hope that after reading the piece; you go out and undeadstock those sneakers, wear out those jeans and that jacket that has been resting inside your closet.

    In 2014, Converse reissued the All Star Chuck ’70; a sneaker that brings back the original elements that made it an icon. This version features a slightly elevated midsole, a pronounced toe cap, a heavier canvas upper, and cushioned footbed. It’s visually chunkier that the classic Chuck Taylor and more premium in every facet.

    As Converse has done with new releases in the past; collaborations were abound for the Chuck ‘70. Among the many collaborative sneakers the footwear brand has released for the sneaker; it could be debated that their First String collection with Maison Martin Margiela was the most unique.

    The French luxury brand has been recognized for its unmistakably minimalistic and modern approach to fashion. With only two releases in 2013 and 2014; both collections saw the Converse sneaker hand painted in white – Margiela’s signature colour. Since its inception, white has represented Maison Margiela’s identity. Not only does it represents anonymity but it’s something that the brand’s elusive founder, Mr Martin Margiela, has practiced throughout his lifetime. To this day, there are no official photos of him.

    The first collection consisted of a Jack Purcell and a Chuck ‘70 made from a heavyset canvas. Because of the nature of the material, wearers found that the paint soaked thoroughly into the upper and little chipping occured. However, this would change with 2014 release, which utilized leather. The smoothness of the material allowed for the paint to peel much easier, thus resulting in noticeable wear, as well as revealing the coloured upper below.

    Despite the prevailing notion that keeping your sneakers fresh is an absolute necessity, it’s our belief that with Converse, in particular, look better as they age. Not only did their collaboration with Margiela, offer a new take one this philosophy but it did visually as well.

    Take a look at our last edition of Casualties of Wear.

    Words & Photography: Jon Carlo Tapia

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