6 Converse Exclusives Launching This Week To Celebrate 50 Years Of PRIDE

The Stonewall riots of 1969 are considered the start in a long fight towards equality. This rebellious protest was a catalyst. As that first domino fell, an unstoppable movement brought change that would affect generations to come. Celebrating this historic event - along with the 50th anniversary of PRIDE - Converse unveil a 6-part footwear collection along with a range of apparel. It's every bit as bold as you'd expect!

Converse, never one to shy away from the support of positive social change, are responsible for some of the most popular PRIDE collections of the past. Only last year, a colorful homage to the PRIDE flag was quick to sellout. Now, for the first time ever, this pack gets inspired by the Transgender Flag.

A glitter theme features across all of the Converse icons from the leather-crafted Chuck Taylor Ox to the ever-timeless Chuck Taylor Hi. A lightning bolt features throughout as a nod to the glam of late 60s fashion. Each of these parade-worthy sneakers is just as striking as the last.

Of course, the glitter drenched uppers are the first to grab attention. Several in the collection are dressed in pink and blue – the colours of the Transgender Flag – whilst others still opt for that rainbow theme.

Look closer and there's far more than meets the eye. This is a loud and proud expression of individuality with an attention to detail only found on limited-edition footwear. From the rainbow-tipped laces to the embroidered print of “1969–2019”, this pack is far from ordinary.

This Converse PRIDE 2019 Collection not only celebrates the past but looks to influential figures of today within the LGBTQ+ movement. It's a homage to six individuals that continue to inspire and encourage the expression of one's true self.

These are the heroes in the modern fight for equality: Desmond, a drag kid and long-time LGBTQ+ advocate; Kristen Beck, trans activist and retired US Navy SEAL, Alexis Sablone, pro-skateboarder; Felix, a student advocate and nature enthusiast; Ayishat Akanbi, a UK-based fashion stylist and culture commentator; and Fran Tirado, an NYC writer and editor.

The full collection including the apparel seen below launches at Converse UK on Tuesday, 21st May. Contributions support Converse's global partner, It Gets Better Project – a non-profit that works to support and empower LGBTQ+ youth everywhere

Images via Converse UK