Whether by way of her “Awkward Black Girl” series on YouTube or hit HBO show, “Insecure,” Issa Rae has championed self-expression, creativity and identity. Never not working, the Los Angeles-native has recently teamed up with Converse and Nicky Fulcher for a collection of customizable Chuck 70s rooted in her mission to inspire the next generation of creatives.
Offered via the By You platform, the forthcoming styles indulge in a classic canvas build dipped in tonal colors like navy, black and white, while also appearing in more playful tones like purple. An assortment of graphic phrases designed by Fulcher, a Hatian-American art director, allow unique messaging on the collaborative collection; affirmations include “Celebrate The Wins,” “DO IT ALL!” and “GET OUT OF MY WAY,” among others. Each Converse shoe created through the By You program features reflective finishes on patches featuring some of the aforementioned phrases, ensuring these words of encouragement don’t disappear during literal dark times.
“[This collaboration] was all about empowering the next generation to get up and DO what it is they aspire to do,” said Rae. “So the team took some of my personal affirmations and approaches to life, and put them into the design of the shoe.”
Enjoy images of some of the customization options here below, and head over to Converse.com tomorrow, July 1st, to secure your pair for $115 USD.
For more from the NIKE, Inc., check out the Lola Bunny Air Force 1.