Kamala Harris Is Laced Up And Ready
Kamala Harris looks good on paper. She went to the best schools. She possesses an impressive resume. She was the first black person and first woman to serve as Attorney General of California, she is one of 26 women currently serving in the U.S. Senate and she is the first black woman vice presidential nominee of a major political party in U. S. history.
She also looks good in person. She is fit. Her skin is a creamy caramel, her hair has the shine some of us can only get from a bottle, and her smile is engaging.
Top to bottom, she is what some might call the total package. Her style is clean and classic. She looks put together without trying too hard. That’s why the uncontroversial Converse is her signature shoe. When she laces up her sneakers, Senator Harris is kicking her politically correct pointed toe pumps to the curb and making a practical and poetic statement: Black women can go anywhere and so can our sneakers.
From the walking trail to the campaign trail, Kamala is making history in a pair of shoes that have been a part of American history since they were first introduced in 1908. Founded in Massachusetts, Converse is one of the oldest sneaker brands in the world, and while their limited editions and seasonal varieties — cognac leather and tie dye this fall, kick it up a notch, the iconic brand conveys pragmatism with a touch of rebel spirit. The much-loved canvas sneakers became known as Chuck Taylors after the NBA players’ name was added to the ankle patch of the shoes as his endorsement.
While the Vice President-elect opts for classic blazers, peg leg pants and jeans with her Chucks, there is more than one way to tie-them on. Personally, I like the uptown, downtown juxtaposition of a pair of high top Chucks with a tuxedo or shimmery evening gown, but if you aren’t as daring, try the low top or high top versions with a denim or corduroy shirt dress or flowy maxi dress this Fall. And, of course, they always pair well with sweats or a chunky sweater and jeans.
Conversely, for a feminine and funky look, try Chucks with shorts and a long kimono over a T-shirt or, like Kamala, with a tailored suit. The bottom line is that Chucks go with virtually everything. The 112 year old sneaker continues to evolve. I hope the nation will step up and follow.
