Chuck it Out

"The All Star sneaker was first created in 1917. It got a signature patch 18 years later. In [19]62 it got low, and 4 years after that it came in 7 new colors. After all this time and all this change, it's still the familiar made new--again and again and again."

-Converse.com

Let me just be completely honest with you. I had vowed a vow of a Chuck-less life. Suddenly, it became apparent I needed a pair. The reason I told people then, and continue to now, was not a sudden change of heart; I was in a competition in which the high-top Taylor's were required. Being very candid, I tell you this: I needed a pair of the very popular Chuck Taylor Converse canvas and rubber shoes only to complete a collection varying types. After being honest and breathing a sigh of relief, I feel better all ready. Wow...the truth does set you free!

In so many ways, this shoe that has with-stood the test of time for 92 years is an inspiration to me. Not only does it stay very true to form, but it is willing to mold and evolve with trends. Not only does it come in solid black, but in pink, green, and grey polka-dot while rhinestone hearts decorate the baby-chucks (which are nothing short of absolutely adorable). The original integrity of its design stays consistent, even through the strange and dynamic adversity that is the fashion world. What other shoe can successfully say that it has been flying off the shelves for such a period of time? For that matter, what other stylish object can say that at all?

Looking at the basic form of the non-athletic flat, I can only help to be dared to make a similar accomplishment. Of course, the punk, grunge, or rocker rarely rears itself from its sleepful, silent place in my imagination, but on occasion, I pull my All-Stars from my closet to embellish an outfit. In the end, not only do they invoke me to pursue something daring, they happen to spark a certain type of confidence that not even Steve Madden can carbon copy.