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The Converse One Star X Footpatrol Collaboration Pays Homage to the Personalities of London’s Soho
The CONVERSE x FOOTPATROL ONE STAR collaboration unites the London retailer with the iconic Converse One Star on a special tribute to the characters and stores within London’s Soho scene.
There’s no denying that the Converse One Star is a timeless piece of design. Launched back in 1970 as an update of the iconic All Star silhouette, the One Star has been recognised and celebrated for its unmistakable silhouette, star-centered ankle patch and cultural authenticity. Establishing itself on the basketball court but since adopted by skaters, surfers, rockers, rappers, artists and many more, the One Star remains just as relevant today as it did back then.
For this outstanding collaboration, the team at Footpatrol have applied a Jewel upgrade to the One Star logo, paying homage to the five ‘Jewels of Soho’: stores and locals who are intrinsic to the street culture of London’s Soho area.
Opening back in 2012, DUKE’S CUPBOARD has established itself as an authority within the current London streetwear scene, seeking and selling the very best in vintage streetwear, alongside deadstock masterpieces from the likes of Stone Island, Ralph Lauren and North Face. If you’ve ever looked to buy vinyl records in London, it’s inevitable that you’ll have found yourself on Berwick Street – a central hotspot for music of all genres. And on this street, you’ll find the legendary RECKLESS RECORDS where rare musical gems sit alongside staple classics that every turntable should wear from time to time. Knowledgeable staff and a broad selection of formats covering all musical tastes has ensured that Reckless remains the go-to spot for music in Soho.
BAR BRUNO combines the classic British greasy spoon with the style of a classic Italian cafe, and as a result, it’s probably the only place you’ll find a full English sitting next to authentic pasta dishes on a menu. An eclectic clientele means that you’ll often find journalists, artists, and streetwear kids all sat together, seeking some shelter from the buzz and hubbub of the surrounding streets. When you think of London’s tailors, you might think of Savile Row, but situated on Berwick Street, is JAC HUI – a master-tailor who is capable of just about anything when it comes to garment reconfiguration. Bold and brash is not Hui’s style: his website simply lists his opening hours and an email address, leaving social media noise and marketing hype to the others. Rounding off this selection of Soho locals are the guys at FRITH STREET TATTOO. No gimmicks, no trends, they maintain a focus on providing unparalleled tattoos. With its secluded basement setting, it may not be the easiest parlour to find, but the reward comes in the form of top-class ink.
To represent these resident icons, Footpatrol have designed a shoe that truly epitomises the local area. The premium tan suede uppers feature orange and white accents on the heel tab, rubber heel branding and outsole, whilst the special printed laces read ‘The Devil Is In The Details’. Tasteful Footpatrol embroidery on the heel sits alongside curb-inspired logos on the toe box, tongue, and outsole to finish this design off in unique style. A classic Coaches Jacket accompanies the footwear in appropriate style, with colour-matched detailing and subtle branding to emphasise the exquisite nature of this project.
To illustrate the theme and concept of the collaboration, FootPatrol are exhibiting a photography series shot by Ollie Grove which features these five ‘Jewels of Soho’. This unique visual presentation will be showcased in-store and also online: click here to check out the special feature on the FootPatrol site now.
The CONVERSE x FOOTPATROL ONE STAR collaboration drops on THURSDAY 6 JULY: click the banner below to check the release page ahead of the drop.
