Press Release from sanrio.com used with permission
Global lifestyle brand Sanrio and internationally recognized footwear and apparel brand Converse have teamed up to create Hello Kitty x Converse, a collection of footwear, sportswear and accessories for fans of all ages. The collaboration combines two iconic brands that celebrate self-expression and originality. Hello Kitty x Converse will arrive just in time for back-to-school - making its debut on sanrio.com and converse.com as well as global retailers on August 16.
The Hello Kitty x Converse collection fashions three of Converse's most celebrated silhouettes - the Chuck Taylor All Star, Chuck 70 and One Star - into must have styles for the multi-generational fans of both brands. Sizes are unisex and range from kids to men's 13. All sneakers have custom designed graphics and logos, polka dot printed lining and come with a second set of laces in an all-over Hello Kitty print. Styles include:
· Chuck Taylor All Star Hi - the original basketball sneaker, the Chuck Taylor All Star became a cultural icon - allowing for millions of individuals to tell their own story and reflect their personal style. With Hello Kitty, we see another global symbol of self-expression take on the silhouette in a fresh way. Features include screen printed Hello Kitty and friends embellish the canvas upper with a peek-a-boo Hello Kitty on sneaker tongue; and "say hello to me when you see me" messaging printed on foxing tape.
· Chuck Taylor All Star OX - features a repeat pattern Hello Kitty face print with flocked bows and "say hello to me when you see me" messaging printed on foxing tape.
· Chuck 70 Hi - The Chuck 70 is a modern ode to Chuck Taylor All Star, celebrating a time when the sneaker had evolved to become the pinnacle of function and utility for sport. The refined high top features a screen printed Hello Kitty face on the canvas upper, as well as Hello Kitty bow graphic on toe cap and clear outsole with repeat bow print.
· One Star OX - On the suede upper of the One Star, Hello Kitty offers a different feel — applying a peek-a-boo approach whereby iconic elements of Hello Kitty appear within the key visual features of the One Star. Features include bow & whisker' printing, debossed puff print bow detail and clear outsole with repeat bow print. For the little ones; velcro straps, debossed puff print bow, and Hello Kitty head outline on the tongue.
Highlights from the Hello Kitty x Converse apparel collection include the white and red short sleeve Football Tee with the Hello Kitty Converse graphics on the left chest and red bow on the sleeve; the black Pullover Hoodie with Hello Kitty chenille patch resting on top of a kanga pocket, an oversized bow on the hood and Hello Kitty printed down the sleeve. Accessories include a Phone Pouch for any size phone, with detachable Hello Kitty pins; Mini Duffle Bag in an all over Hello Kitty print and black/red polka dot Cross Body Bag with Hello Kitty accents.
The Hello Kitty x Converse sneaker collection will retail between $50 - $100, with sportswear and accessories ranging from $35 for the Cross Body Bag to $75 for the Pullover Hoodie. The collection will launch globally from converse.com and sanrio.com, select Converse stores and retailers.
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About Converse
Converse Inc., a footwear and apparel company based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, Converse is recognized as a brand for self-expression around the world and across cultures. The interpretation and adoption its iconic sneakers, including the Chuck Taylor® All Star®, the One Star® and Jack Purcell® span decades. See the latest by following @converse.
About Sanrio
Sanrio is the global lifestyle brand best known for pop icon Hello Kitty®, who recently celebrated her 40th Anniversary. Home to many endearing characters including Chococat® My Melody®, Badtz-Maru® and Keroppi®, Sanrio was founded on the 'small gift, big smile®' philosophy - that a small gift can bring happiness and friendship to people of all ages. Since 1960, this philosophy has served as the inspiration for the broad spectrum of unique products and experiences. Today, more than 50,000 Hello Kitty-branded items are available in over 130 countries and upwards of 15,000 U.S. retail locations including department, specialty, national chain stores and over 35 Sanrio boutiques. For more information please visit www.sanrio.com and www.facebook.com/hellokitty.
