Sneaker Swan Song: Has Converse Brought Back Number (N)ine?

When boundary-testing, often Southwest-inspired Japanese brand Number (N)ine announced a year ago that they would be closing their doors forever, the fashion community mourned the loss of a great and unique men’s label. But for Takahiro Miyashita, the chief designer at Number (N)ine, forever has proven too long. Launching tomorrow, March 13, Takahiro’s new collaboration with Converse will be available worldwide, re-punctuating the end of a historic brand in the form of a shag sneaker. Drawing inspiration from Converse’s storied history , Takahiro has re-envisioned the classic Chuck Taylor and One Star kicks in white and yellow, using unfinished deerskin and shag suede to give the shoes a uniquely textured aesthetic. In an homage to the Converse sneakers of the ‘70s, the laces are set off-center, adding another twist to an already revised silhouette. Though this seems to be the end of Number (N)ine (unless we are surprised by a second encore), I doubt we have seen the last of Takahiro Miyashita. When and how he will re-appear… that is the question.