The brand that brought the genderless Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker to the market is now tapping into inclusive apparel.
Nike-owned Converse announced this week the launch of Shapes, a collection designed according to body shape—not size or gender. Using gussets and pleats, the five-piece collection is constructed to accommodate a variety of different body types.
Shapes includes three variations of a T-shirt, a pair of chino pants and a hoodie. Each piece comes in just four sizes. Shapes will retail for $25-$75.
The collection was inspired by the Chuck Taylor All Star, a product the brand calls “arguably the most inclusive shoe ever made.”
“When starting design from a nontraditional place, there are endless opportunities to reimagine everything from construction to sizing to materials,” Converse’s vice president (VP), global apparel Jon Tappan said in a statement. “Shapes is the perfect example of how to meet the consumer in their element. By bringing functionality, inclusivity and comfort to everyday clothes, we believe we can really change the game.”
Converse, which introduced upcycled denim sneakers in 2019, is also adding a sustainability element to the apparel collection. Shapes is made with 50 percent recycled cotton and 50 percent virgin cotton.
“We’ve always been a progressive brand, but as we enter a new decade, we see an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of our own design and product ethos,” Phil Russo, Converse’s global VP, design and innovation, added.
Following the launch of Shapes, Converse will also debut its skate-inspired collection called Utility Fleece in the fall, and a basketball-inspired Court Ready collection in early 2021.
