Bora Aksu and Converse have a lovely intertwined relationship as they are collaborating for the second time. For Aksu’s 2004 A/W show, he converted Converse hi-tops into long boots with a variety of tweeds, leathers and trimmings to work them into his nomadic-themed collection. He’s taken Converse materials one step further and will unveil belts/waist decorations made of flattened out Converse shoes for his S/S 07 collection in September. This is a pretty crafty manipulation which is in line with Bora Aksu’s approach to materials.
Increasingly, I am interested in waistwear, to not just look at a belt as something functional (i.e. pull in shirts, give waist definition, hold up skirts). To look at a belt as a ‘waist decoration’ gives you much more legitimate grounds to spend more money on it. These belts, if they make it to the shops will definitely be top of my list. A statement piece that would really make a monochromatic outfit pop!
am i crazy or did nylon show you how to make a belt like that in a recent issue?
Yes Nylon did! I thought it looked pretty cool, especially done in the natural colour.
Was the idea inspired by Bora Aksu because those DIY ideas are usually instructed by a designer. Which issue was it? Is the latest one – the Ashley Olsen one?
It was definitely a few months ago, before the Myspace and Mischa Barton issues.
It was in the february issue (with Alison Lohman on the cover) and yes, it was a Bora Aksu contribution.
Can’t say I’m a big fan, though.
For Converse shoes and especially Chuck Taylor All Stars (known world-wide as “Chucks”), Converse sandals, Converse accessories, Vans shoes, Heelys shoes and Dinosoles shoes Baggins is your source. Baggins is famous for “Footwear with attitude”.