How to style the ultimate throwback sneaker, according to these influential Kiwis

What do you get when you fuse five of New Zealand’s top street style gurus, located in some of Auckland’s hidden gems, rocking a sneaker that’s outlasted all overs? Magic, as we discovered, when we challenged five stylish influencers from all walks of earth to try their luck at rocking the new Converse One Star.

Redefining the meaning of the oxymoron ‘modern classic’, the newest iterations of the Converse One Star draw inspiration from the 1970s original, but offered a modern twist.

Following in the successful footsteps of the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, Converse launched the One Star in 1974, as a low-cut, suede version boasting a solitary star on the sneaker’s lateral side.

Originally intended for basketball, the One Star changed with the times as skateboarding grew in popularity.

Fast-forward to the ‘90s, where the One Star was reimagined once more, and rose to become the iconic shoe worn by rebellious, daring youth the world over.

The footwear giant has captured the daring spirit of youth once again with their latest iteration on an old favourite, as seen on four of the country’s hottest street style stars.

Aptly named, the Converse ‘Youth Stars’, we spent an afternoon with each of these movers and shakers to discover where they get their street style inspiration from, what they love about ‘90s throwback fashion, and how they love to style the new Converse One Star.

Graphic designer, blogger and fashion influencer Makaira Lee married the Converse One Star with her wardrobe full of ‘90s throwbacks, which looked right at home amongst the op shops on Auckland’s K Road.

Rocking the One Star CF Suede, Makaira styled these brightly hued kicks with boiler suits, bucket hats, and oversized jackets. Plus, she was comfy all day long as the Ortholite insole offered her feet next-level cushioning.

Check out Makaira’s video here.

For YouTuber Sam’s Life, footwear needs to be both practical and stylish, meaning the Converse One Star fits his lifestyle perfectly.

Featuring matte leather perforations for an updated look and added ventilation, Sam’s Converse One Star Perf Leather recruit vulcanized rubber soles for added traction.

Check out Sam’s video here. 

Nami and Pascale, the stylish duo behind the blog and accessories label Serendipity Ave, know plenty when it comes to pulling the perfect outfit together.

The Converse One Star Plush Suede is available in two distinct colours that look faded by the sun, and are water resistant even in those sad, rainy summer days. The Serendipity Ave girls work the Converse One Star with a mix ripped up denim, slip dresses, camo patterns, and pretty floral blouses, all delivering a #flawless result.

Check out Serendipity Ave’s video here. 

He spends his days in the ZM studio, but that’s no excuse to not dress for the occasion. ZM Snapchart DJ Cam Mansel counts his vintage NASA jacket as one of his favourite garments to pair with the Converse One Star Premium Suede.

The plush suede finish, increased cushioning and rubber sole for maximum grip means this is the ultimate sneaker for work or play.

Check out Cam’s video here. 

The newly minted Converse One Star range is available online here, or from Converse St Luke’s, Converse Manukau, Converse Sylvia Park and selected retailers across the country.

Check out the highlights, here: