Brooklyn-born designer Martine Ali has carved her name in the jewelry world, and now, she’s stepping onto the canvas of the iconic Chuck 70. Her latest collaboration with Converse, the Martine Ali x Converse Chuck 70 XXHi, is a wearable piece of art, blurring the lines between fashion and self-expression.
From childhood trinkets to runway-worthy creations, Ali’s journey is one of passion and dedication. Starting with handmade bracelets at her babysitter’s encouragement, she quickly discovered her talent and turned it into a thriving business. Today, her pieces adorn the likes of Bella Hadid and Sza.
Building on the success of their first project, Ali infuses the Converse Chuck 70 XXHi with her signature style. Washed black denim, matching hardware, and a focus on versatility define this design. Five press studs and zig-zag stitching invite personalization, allowing you to add chains or jewelry from her line, making the shoe truly your own.
Martine Ali also designed a capsule collection that mirrors her design philosophy. The transformable jacket, inspired by welding attire, and the utility-fabric skirt that changes from mini to maxi offer adaptability and express the creative spirit.
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Ali’s design process is a fascinating blend of art and wearability. Influenced by sculptors and painters, she creates pieces that are both beautiful and functional. “I try to look at it as if this were just something that lived on a shelf and you never wore, would it be as beautiful and desirable?” she asks, highlighting her dedication to creating art that transcends mere functionality.
The collaboration with Converse wasn’t a chance encounter. Ali’s exploration of shoes as a creative medium led her to connect with the brand, fueled by a desire to design a sneaker heel. What started as a concept blossomed into the Converse Chuck 70 XXHi, a testament to her perseverance and vision.
This second collaboration goes deeper. With more development time, Ali incorporated actual belt buckles and jewelry pieces from her line into the shoe hardware, creating a seamless connection between her two passions. “It was really cool to be able to push that envelope,” she says, reflecting on the creative freedom afforded by the project.
The clothing collection, too, draws inspiration from Ali’s lifestyle. Convertible and flexible pieces like the welding jacket-inspired one cater to the dynamic lives of creators and hustlers. “It’s for those days when you’re at work and you have to go out afterwards and you want to look a little different,” she explains, capturing the essence of the collection’s adaptability.
For aspiring jewelry designers, Ali’s advice is simple yet profound: treat it as an artistic practice, explore without limitations, and find inspiration outside your chosen medium. “Look at it as an artistic practice,” she emphasizes. “Devote a space or a time of day or time of the week where you are just going to sit there and work on it.”
The Converse x Martine Ali collection will launch on March 21, 2024 on Converse.com and at select international retailers.
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