After appearing on the FW22 "STROBE" runway, Rick Owens' DRKSHDW and Converse collaboration finally hits the stores. Coming in the "Chuck Taylor"-derived TURBODRK and reworked "Weapon" silhouette TURBOWPN models, the new collection expanded upon their previous collaborations.
The TURBOWPN model utilizes the classic colorway of black and ivory as opposed to the monotone colorways of previous drops. Taking an existing model as a base and exaggerating its proportions, the aesthetics are recognizably Rick Owens', calling back his mainline footwear models and past collaborations such as adidas Mastodon Pro Model. Like previous drops, the Converse logo on the lateral side is replaced with Owens' elongated star motif.
Contrasting the TURBOWPN colorways, this drop's TURBODRK model is covered in zebra-printed faux shearling. The pattern and texture are recurring motifs in Owens' collections, appearing in mainline shoes, slippers, and jackets across seasons. It's interesting to see Owens incorporating his signature motif more into his collaborations. Notably, his earlier collaborations with Converse received some mixed reviews from fans for "playing safe", but the most recent drop saw Owens exploring the possibilities of the collaboration more. Aside from the shoes, the collection also includes two bags in the same zebra-printed faux shearling material.
 DRKSHDW x Converse GO LO Backpack/ Foto: Converse |
For the release, Owens enlisted musician and bounce music icon Big Freedia, who has a longstanding relationship with him. As per Owens, enlisting Big Freedia is a way for him to "celebrate his enduring power and ferocity in an all too often narrow and judgemental world." For those interested, the collaboration can be found on international Converse and Rick Owens' websites, as well as selected stores.
(alm/tim)