Dr. Romanelli x Converse Sneakers: Things I Want

I can always go for a new pair of sneakers, and this pair released as a collab between Dr. Romanelli x Converse are pretty cool. Nautical theme -- check. Anchors -- check. Mid-top with red-striped ankle -- check.

Now as far as collabs go, this one is pretty complex. It's called Beetle vs. Popeye, because the other shoe in the line is a fatigues inspired "Beetle Bailey". Of course I'm siding with Popeye...

Hypebeast has a great interview with Dr. Romanelli, and more looks at the collab.

Things I Have: Feiyue

Whenever I arrive in Shanghai I pick up one of the local English magazines, which provide news and events for around the city. On this trip I read an article about Feiyue, a Shanghai produced sneaker that has been made since 1959.

Like many retro items that are coming back, the Feiyue brand was picked up by a Western entrepreneur who modified the shoe a bit and started selling them in France and the U.S. The article I read mentioned you could get them now at Fred Segal for $50.

However... there is a small shop in Shanghai that still sells the original. The low cut version is the equivalent of $4 and the mid-top shown here are $7.

So yesterday I hopped on the metro and went to find me some Feiyue! The shop selling them is a very typical local place, a very tiny storefront with merchandise packed inside. The woman inside looked at me (the only Westerner for miles) and immediately knew what I had come for.

And that's how I walked away with a pair in white and in black for a total of 96 RMB. Incredible!

Things I Want: Sneakers by Bottega Veneta

I am a more recent convert to Bottega, especially as they've expanded their offerings. Was really close to getting their credit card holder as my new wallet, but as readers of this blog know, settled on the CdG tartan instead.

Now I see these rockin' sneakers, using the weave they're known for but with a splash of color with the orange sole. Pretty cool!

You can check them out at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/02/28/bottega-veneta-springsummer-2009-trainer/

Things I Want: Converse by Thom Browne

I have to say it... Thom Browne is amazing.  I mean, really really amazing.  How else do you explain these sneakers he did for Converse's 100th Anniversary?  The blue/white/red weave on the outside, with a suede lining.  Incredible!

The best part (worst part for those of us Stateside) is that they're only being sold at Isetan.  I am hoping that Isetan Shanghai qualifies as a worthy outlet because I have to get a pair of these!

Of course every menswear blog had a post about this... but you can get more details from the peeps at Selectism:  www.selectism.com/news/2008/11/24/thom-browne-for-converse-100th-anniversary-sneaker/

Enjoy!