Brand: Todd Snyder x Converse

Model: Jack Purcell and apparel

Release Date: May 20

Price: TBC

Buy: Todd Snyder, Converse, and select retailers

What We’re Saying: Todd Synder and Converse have teamed up for their first-ever collaboration. The collection comprises a slightly reworked version of the latter’s iconic Jack Purcell sneaker, as well as a range of co-branded apparel.

Although this is Snyder‘s first official Converse collaboration, the acclaimed menswear designer has experience reworking classic sneakers, most notably a range of highly sought-after New Balance kicks. This time, however, Snyder has gone beyond “just” collaborating on a sneaker, as the collection is the first time a full head-to-toe capsule has been part of the collaboration process.

“We've stocked Converse sneakers for a while, but this is our first true collab, which is what made it such an exciting project. In a way, I like to think every collaboration I do is both a continuation and a new direction,” Snyder tells Highsnobiety. “With Jack Purcell, it's a continuation of the iconic design details that made fans out of legends like James Dean, Ray Eames, Steve McQueen and Kurt Cobain, but also a new direction in that we created a full head-to-toe capsule for the next generation of creatives.”

Working with an iconic sneaker in the Jack Purcell, Snyder opted to keep many things the same and only tweak certain design elements to make it his own. He wasn’t trying to reinvent a classic. “I updated the classic Jack Purcell canvas with tonal suede accents to elevate it a bit, and also gave it a cork footbed and recycled rubber sole,” he reveals.

For the campaign, Snyder and Converse tapped a wide range of creatives that have become known for breaking barriers in their fields. “This is one of our biggest campaigns to date and I really wanted to send a message of inclusivity and individuality with our cast,” he explains. “I am so excited and inspired by everyone we chose, excited to share each of their stories over the next week as we release this content.”

The Jack Purcell arrives in two colorways, while the apparel collection includes a harrington jacket, polo, crewneck, rugby, and joggers and a cap. When asked what his favorite piece is, Snyder doesn’t hesitate: “Aside from the shoes, which I’ll definitely be wearing all summer, I really love the plaid Harrington jacket. It’s a classic silhouette, but the signature blue plaid makes it a real statement that you can throw over anything to really stand out.”

The Todd Snyder x Converse Jack Purcell collection will be available starting May 20.

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