words // Brandon Richard
via Press Release
Converse continues their successful collaboration with Finnish design house Marimekko in an all-new lineup of footwear due out this month. The Fall 2011 Converse collection features vibrant versions of Converse’s most famous silhouettes.
Included in the collection are the iconic Chuck Taylor All Star and Jack Purcell models. Using Marimekko's unique prints, the shoes showcase bold designs for everyday life. Marimekko's prints have become some of the most recognizable and artistic designs worldwide.
“The collaboration between Marimekko and Converse feels so natural,” says Noora Niinikoski, Marimekko Design Manager and Fashion Designer. “Both companies have a strong, unique heritage and have always walked their own path. There’s something very special about this kind of timeless lifestyle and I think these shoes are a great example of that.”
Prints selected for the Marimekko x Converse Fall 2011 Collection were created by Marimekko master Mija Isola and rising star Maija Louekari. The new collection features the most famous Marimekko print of all-time, the Unikko design, originally created by Isola in 1964. Her daughter Kristina has created a new coloring scale for the print to use on Converse shoes. Her poppy print will dress the shoes with bright pink or blackflowers with metallic details.
Also created by Maija Isola is the Paprika pattern, which originally came about in 1965. Paprika appears in the collection in a graphic black and white colorway. New Marimekko prints designed for the Fall 2011 collection include the Kaleidoskooppi and Poni patterns by Maija Louekari. Kaleidoskooppi, inspired by a kaleidoscope, and Poni,
based on an image of round, plump hoof prints left by a small pony, represent the colorful Marimekko pattern world at its brightest.
Marimekko, born out of the design to bring happiness to everyday life, celebrates its 60th Anniversary this year. A combination of Mari, a girl’s name, and mekko, the Finnish word for dress, Marimekko was founded by Armi Ratia. In the time post-World War II, there was a desire for bright colors and fresh ideas. Embracing the concept, Marimekko began producing timeless, vibrant prints that continue to speak to strong, progressive women today. The contradictions in the Marimekko prints create bridges between traditional and modern, urban and nature, much like many of the Converse silhouettes.
The Marimekko x Converse Collection will be available nationwide and globally at premium retail outlets beginning in June 2011 and online at www.converse.com on June 23, 2011. Retail ranges from $75-$80.
