Ross Dwyer Many a collaborative shoe has had its moment in the spotlight during fashion weeks in 2018. With UNDERCOVER unveiling the React Element 87 and showing off their alternate take on the Nike Tailwind earlier this year, Comme Des Garcons sending bejeweled Nike Shox down the runway, and Virgil Abloh using a recent Off-White show in Paris to debut new Zoom Fly SPs and Zoom Vaporfly Elites, the gap between the streets and the runways has essentially been rendered nonexistent. The latest designer to send special sneakers down the runway? Feng Chen Wang, who kicked off Shanghai Fashion Week with her “My Half” show that heavily featured the Converse Chuck Taylor.
Due to the show’s title, it’s no surprise that the collaborative footwear tells a tale of two halves with its layered — yet still deconstructed — look. Wang has taken the classic Chuck Taylor in both high and low cuts, and has superimposed bold extra heel and forefoot pieces onto the shoe, offering a look that’s half classic, half new age, and wholly unique. Everything from split double soles to sewn-on second collars and extra canvas exoskeletons both with and without straps are present, adding a conceptual modern twist to the classic design. Arriving in a plethora of colors and styles, Wang has a Chuck for everyone in her latest collection — and they’re set to release next year as part of her S/S ’19 collection. Get a look at some of the striking split kicks below, let us know what pair is your personal favorite, and stay tuned to our Sneaker Release Dates page for more updates as they’re available.
Images: Feng Chen Wang
