Chelsea Duquette
Journal Staff
It is said that you never forget your first. This is the exact idea behind the very first, brand new, athletically rock ‘n roll charged Converse specialty retail shop that opened Oct. 15. The chic and high-style society found on Newbury Street in Boston was invaded by a crowd of the Chuck Taylor obsessed, all curious to find out what this new experience of the classic basketball kicks and would bring.The store, much like the brand itself, does not cease to deliver.
Located at 348 Newbury Street, the first Converse specialty store resides in a home that is approximately 6,000 square feet. The store is made up of two floors, each offering its own unique experience for shoppers. Located on the street level, both men’s and women’s apparel can be found, as well as accessories that uphold the true spirit of the Converse brand. The second level of the store is a footwear obsessed paradise, with the largest collection of Converse sneakers offered in the U.S. The store boasts the classic collections, including Chuck Taylor All-Star, Jack Purcell, Star Chevron, One Star and Converse by John Varvatos. Along with this extensive array of options for any Converse enthusiast, the store is also home to over 40 exclusive styles, that can only be found on the Newbury Street flagship.
If just owning some form of apparel from this one-of-a-kind shop is not enough, now customers have the option to make their purchases even more unique. At the store, there is the choice to customize several items including tops, canvas bags and even the footwear. Shoppers can choose from a wide variety of over 100 graphics updated monthly along with several color options on iPads located in the customization area, found on the second level of the store. Then, the designs are processed and created through the work of “Customization Maestros”, and are brought to life right before the eyes of the customers. All designs are presented in special packaging, and are ready to leave the store within a few minutes. The collection of graphics even includes many Boston exclusive works of art, boasting phrases such as “Back Bay,” “Allston,” and “Southie,” along with symbols including the popular Bostonian figure Paul Revere.
After a long wait, the store has finally opened, and is proud to be located in “the most historic and premium shopping destination in the Boston area.” The store is open Monday through Saturday, 10a.m. to 8p.m., and Sunday, 11a.m. to 7p.m. This fresh concept of a Converse specialty retail store is unique and creative, and stands for all that it offers to its customers; a “truly original shopping experience.” Blending a world of American sportswear with a rock ‘n roll edge, Converse has yet again raised the bar for the company. Converse’s new home on Newbury Street stands out, is one-of-a-kind and is truly an “All Star” shopping experience.
