CONVERSE TURNED ITS CHUCK TAYLORS INTO GHILLIES

Just when you thought Converse could do nothing else to the Chuck Taylors, the footwear brand said, "let's make them into ghillies!"

Converse introduced the All Star Light Plastic Ghillie Hi shoes last year, rendering them in classic colorways like white and black/white. The model is back in 2023, set to release in a new all-black scheme on April 13 for ¥9,350 (approx. $70).

Expect the latest pairs to, again, boasts the build of the classic Chuck Taylors but with cutout upper, thicker platform sole, and ribbon-style laces akin to those seen on traditional ghillie shoes.

Now for those wondering what the heck a ghillie is, it's a dance shoe typically worn in Ireland, Scotland, and Highland distinguished by its criss-cross laces (as reimagined on Converse's All-Stars).

The lace-up technique may look familiar, as names like Vivienne Westwood, Off-White, and Camper have incorporated the concept in their footwear offerings (in accordance with their unique design codes).

Converse has also experimented with ghillie laces before, evident with its Chuck 70 Ghillie Lace ‘Digital Terrain’ sneakers. The All-Star Ghillies, however, embodies the spirit of the dance shoe to the fullest while still preserving the Chuck 70 foundation, of course.

Fresh off turning the Chuck 70s into heels (yes, this happened), Converse is now back to churning out more ghillie Chuck Taylors. The rendition is reportedly quite popular with the ladies overseas as the initial pairs were released exclusively in Japan (they always get the good stuff).

The black All-Star Light Plastic Ghillie Hi shoes follow the same vibe, launching on April 13 on atmos Tokyo's website. Just an FYI for those who in Japan who find themselves even the bit curious or brave enough to cop.