Comme De Garçons x Converse Sneaker Review: Is it worth it?

Photo creds to @feauturelv

The Backstory-

I recall the very first time I saw a pair of Comme de Garcons x Converse on someone's feet. It was a typical rainy and somber day in London. My mom and I, in hopes of escaping the wrath of the depressing weather headed to Selfridges, a high fashion department store, conveniently located on Oxford Street. Selfridges can arguably be considered the Mecca of luxury goods. They have an A-Z stock of every haute couture brand you've ever heard of, ranging from Louis Vuitton to Gucci, and anything in between. This store is globally renowned location, attracting all sorts of global consumers.
One of my favorite things about Selfridges is the diverse and eccentric fashion items you see shoppers wearing. Strolling down a corridor in Selfridges is comparable to watching a live fashion show. The sundry of different colors, styles, and cuts is beyond captivating. It's the ultimate place to get fashion inspiration from others.
I'd  previously heard of the Japanese brand Comme de Garcons but I was unfamiliar with their self- described “luxury casual”  side brand Comme de Garcons Play . Back home in San Francisco, its common to hear about high fashion labels, such as Chanel, Prada, Valentino, yet it's a rare day when you actually see someone hitting the streets wearing these brands.  Selfridges was the first place I  had ever seen someone noticeably sporting something from CDG, and the very minute I saw the small heart with two eyes I was in love.

The Review-

As soon as  I arrived back in San Francisco, I headed over to Barney’s and purchased a pair of Comme de Garcons Play x Converse low top white sneakers. They were $125 USD, a considerably reasonable price for a brand like CDG. What intrigued me about these sneakers is the seamless blend between high end and streetwear. The contrast between the classic Chuck Taylor All Stars 70’  converse and the quirky twist of nouveau CDG aroused my curiosity.

• Styling

This sneaker can easily elevate the look of an otherwise basic outfit. Ideally styled in a casual manner, there are various ways to style this shoe. You could stick to either slim fit jeans or trousers with a basic tee or opened up shirt. Though this shoe may have a sleek and minimalist appearance, it's bound to make a splash in any environment.





Stats-

Standard model CDG sneakers are available in both low top and high top styles. The color range is very fairly finite with options in only black and off-white. Every shoe is stamped with a trademark peekaboo heart. CDG has also released a coveted polka dot model of this sneaker, yet they're only released in modest batches and availability is extremely limited.




It's probable you find this shoe at retailers such  Nordstrom, Selfridges, Barneys New York, but be on the close lookout because these shoes are bought out in the blink of an eye.
At a first glance, this shoe appears sleek, clean, and minimalistic.  Everything from the stitching, to the laces, and even the midsole appears premium. The fit is slightly narrow as can be expected from Converse, and the length was way bigger than expected. I’d recommend sizing down a size or two from your normal shoe size for a proper fit. Decent comfort is assured, with a small foam insole at the arch of the foot.

Overall, I  wouldn't say there's a significantly obvious difference between the model standard Chuck Taylor sneaker and a CDG one,  apart from some added comfort, different sizing charts and of course the signature peekaboo heart. You're essentially cashing in an estimated $75 dollars extra for enhanced shoe quality and, of course, the eminent Comme de Garcon name.

Without a doubt, this shoe is a must-have staple for any sneaker lover. It matches nearly every outfit you put it up to and though minimalistic, it always makes a defining and conspicuous statement. I wear this shoe almost everywhere, to school, to the city, and a day out with friends. No matter where I go, these shoes never fail to amaze me with their premium quality, sleek design, and fresh appearance. Do yourself a favor, and go out and get a pair.

• Alexandra Gallagher 1/19/18