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STYLE ADVICE
Ways to wear: Converse
By Gavin Jewkes, 22 May 2015
For something that’s been in constant production for nearly a century, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star still looks remarkably fresh. Since it first rolled off the production line in 1917, its simple, fuss-free aesthetic has kept it consistently relevant, which means its one of the few footwear styles of the 20th century that hasn’t fallen foul of fashion’s fickle nature.
While it was initially designed for the basketball court, the All Star's distinctive silhouette and comfort soon marked it out as casual footwear staple. But it’s taken almost a hundred years for us to recognise just how versatile it really is. Take a look below as we show you three powerful ways to wear a pair of Chucks, including how you can style it as part of a more formal outfit without looking like a dad trying to cling onto his youth.

Picture: ASOS
Summer casual
With all the socklessness and turn-up action going on nowadays, high-tops offer some sweet relief from the pressure to expose your ankles in summer. For a look that takes you from park to pub with aplomb, wear yours with a pair of denim shorts, a white crew-neck T-shirt and a simple marl sweat. This is the All Star all-American vibe at its best and looks clean, fresh and – most importantly – coolly effortless.
Guns-out grunge
The grunge revival is still going strong, so it stands to reason that a pair of Converse – which sat at the heart of any self-respecting grunge rocker’s outfit in the 90s – have become the go-to footwear for guys with a penchant for distressed denim, shredded vests and oversized checks. This is solid outfit choice for your next trip somewhere you don’t speak the language, so need to let your threads do the talking.
The smart choice
Breathe new life into an old slim-fit suit by swapping the shirt for a black tee and your brogues for a pair of Converse. Despite what the naysayers think, wearing your tailoring with casual shoes is a clever way to dress down your smartwear and make it more seasonally-appropriate. Granted, this look is probably too low key for a wedding, but if you’re heading to a laid-back night somewhere upscale, this outfit is just the ticket.