Converse Launches a New Activewear Collection
Photo courtesy of Converse Inc.
Converse is kicking up the cool factor with its newest capsule collection, Essentials, which debuts online and in-store at Converse and third party locations Thursday. Designed to meet every need of the mobile consumer, the collection is style meets comfort at its best.
The Essentials line features a range of staple pieces including a tee, crewneck, pullover hoodie, full-zip hoodie, pant, and backpack. For men, garments are pre-washed to allow for minimal shrinkage and designed for flexibility and layering, while womenswear is cut slim for looks that are both functional and flattering.
Photo courtesy of Converse Inc.
Building upon the classic aesthetic of the Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker, the collection emphasizes quality and simplicity. Traditional silhouettes are amplified with modern details, including rubberized eyelets that create added texture and nickel YKK zippers that offset monochromatic looks. The line is available in a range of versatile colors perfect for fall, including light gray, egret, obsidian, red block, and black.
Other details play up practicality, attempting to make the life of the busy consumer that much more manageable. The pullover hoodie and full-zip hoodie have an inner pocket for easy iPhone access, as well as a double-layered hood for extra warmth and a sewn-in collar notch that stretches when pulled over your head. Thoughtful installations can also be found in the collection’s backpack, which incorporates an exterior laptop sleeve, a scratch-resistant technology pouch, and a waterproof front pocket. For those on the go, handles on both the front and sides of the backpack make it easy to transport when hopping on and off the T.
Photo courtesy of Converse Inc.
Beyond these handy additions, though, it’s the durability of the line that offers its ultimate appeal. Designed for long-term use, each piece combines sturdy stitching, fabric that fades naturally with wear, and pre-shrinkage for a consistent fit throughout wash cycles, so you won’t have to worry about giving up that favorite sweater you’ve worn every day for the past year.
As a precursor to the new collection, Converse will launch its limited-edition Essentials x Fragment line Wednesday. Created by internationally recognized designer Hiroshi Fujiwara, this preview encompasses the philosophies of the full collection with timeless constructions—such as the crew and tee—and pre-washed sizing.
Identified by the “Fragment” logo emblazoned on each piece, Essentials x Fragment will be available for purchase at Converse retail stores, select retailers, and on Converse.com for suggested retail prices of $40-$90. Converse Essentials will retail for similar suggested prices of $35-$90.
