Adair Wright, a junior majoring in apparel and textiles at The University of Alabama, says, “the brand has done an amazing job at staying so relevant across the years.” Wright also brought up how there have been so many “different stages of basic shoes trends” throughout the years, yet Converse remains a staple piece in fashion. Wright believes they have survived the test of time due to their uniqueness. The appeal is anybody and everybody can wear them no matter what style they like. There is such a wide variety of colors, patterns and even customization options that can fit anyone’s personal style.” Lauren Wong, a sophomore also majoring in apparel and textiles at UA says she believes, “Chuck Taylors will remain stable and popular for many years to come, even with new fashion trends. Time and time again, they have proven to be consistent and a constant fashion subject.” Additionally, apparel and textiles professor at The University of Alabama, Rebecca Burney, gave her professional perspective on the subject. According to Burney, the shoes’ longtime popularity stems from how “the design, which has 32 alice.ua.edu pretty much remained true to its original concept, can be worn by men and women, making its appeal even more versatile. [Since] the uppers are made of canvas, not leather, vegetarians, vegans and those who are sensitive to animal harm are able to wear the style without guilt. Also, the cost is relatively affordable to many people and so it is fairly easily attainable.” Burney also touches on how “Converse has a rich history of collaborating with many designers and brands to reimagine Chuck Taylor.” The collaborations “bring in another consumer who may not have originally bought the shoe but now will since it is designed by Commes de Garcon, or Rick Owens, or Hello Kitty (among many others).” Burney speaks on how the shoes are often given a new spin, like “rubber outsole, special edition color combinations, print varieties, and customization,” which attracts more customers. “The magic of Chucks is how their simple design works with high and low fashion choices, so it can be worn with a tuxedo, a summer sundress, or ripped jeans,” says Burney. Something that makes Chuck Taylors special is how “people might have an association with a particular time in their life when they wore Chucks.” According to Burney, “Chuck Taylors are a practical, sustainable and comfortable fashion choice. They are durable shoes that can last many years, won’t break the bank to buy, and can say a lot about who you are.” Chuck Taylors an Everyday Favorite Chucks are a shoe worn by students everywhere and they can suit everyone’s personality. They are all around and unique to every wearer’s character. Their uniqueness and ability to be iconic in every aspect such as their social impact and fashion abilities will make this brand continue to be timeless for another hundred years. Chuck Taylors and the Converse brand have become so much more than just a shoe, making them beyond special. Design by Meagan Riordan Modeled by Kyla Knickrehm Photos by Emma Mae Burtnett
“TIME AND TIME AGAIN, THEY HAVE PROVEN TO BE CONSISTENT AND A CONSTANT FASHION SUBJECT.” Alice Fall 2023 33