Converse is blowing out 100 candles this year and to mark the event, they've released some models incorporating some current day styles over footwear taken from their extensive catalog of sneakers. For their 2008 Spring/Summer releases, look for the rarely seen Jack Purcell Mid in snake leather (based on a 1999 release), the All-Star Digilog Hi (based on a contemporary art collection from 1988), All-Star Asymmetry Hi (based on a 2000 release), All-Star Two Strap Shin-Hi (based on a laceless 2001 Chuck Two Strap) and ST Viphop Hi, an inspiration from the 1984 performance model Star Tech Hi. Look for these at select Converse dealers. Source: Converse JP

Scott Patt's creative mind was put to work in this upcoming Converse (PRODUCT) RED release. The colorful 100 Ripples of Hope design holds it's inspiration under the pretense that energy is the catalyst for change with the different colors representing different people. Available at (PRODUCT) RED stockists this month. Info/Image: Complex

Converse has released a new pair of One Star Oxfords featuring a distressed leather upper with a patent stripe along the midsole. Two different colorways are available in either black or white. Check your local Converse dealer for availability. Image: Mita

It's already begun, the influx of Converse 100th Anniversary items will undoubtedly find it's way onto these pages. But something about 100 years of history makes it slightly alright. The Repair Block Collection is actually a re-inspired retro from a 1992 release allowing you to wear brand new box fresh shoes marred with tarp-like repairs. Both high's and low's are available in different colorways. Available now at ripe however check your local dealer Converse dealer as well.

Some of you may be aware of Converse's looming 100th Anniversary. With 100 years of back catalog, there's bound to be some releases which for many will be a look at some new and rarely seen items. Among them, the Jack Purcell Racearound was originally released in 1973 and inspired in part by sports cars of its generation. The upper is comprised of both smooth and pebble pig skin leather. Available now at Flauge.

Flauge has just dropped a new pack of Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Hi's. With a surprisingly understated reptile print, these Chuck Taylors are reinterpreted decently without any gaudy tacky fixtures. Available now in two different colors. Check your local Converse dealer for the goods.

For the late great “Style Master General” Dondi White, he served as one of the era's greatest artists with a spray can. His works seen on various MTA trains in New York became well known highlights and were associated with some of the most influential works in graffiti. Complications from AIDS took Dondi White's life at the tender age of 37. In light of this, the Dondi White Foundation was created in 2003 to fund programs for AIDS/HIV prevention and services for the betterment of those living with this ailment. For Converse's 1HUND(RED) campaign, Dondi's brother Michael and the White family provided imagery from Dondi's personal journal to create the basis for a design on a Pro Leather oxford shoe. The sneaker will drop alongside an exhibition of Dondi White's intricate art work which has seen him exhibit in solo shows around the world. The sneaker will be available this month at Bodega with a price of $90. 10% from the wholesale price will be donated to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Geneva, Switzerland).

While most people are familiar with the Chuck Taylor All-Star, a look here reveals some lesser known Converse models such as the Weapon Ox, Chevron Star and Pro Leather. These models are part of the latest Chevron & Star campaign. Available now at Mita.

With a product catalog that has encompassed 100 years, Converse have a vast collection of products and inspirations to choose from as they celebrate a milestone 100th Anniversary. Their campaign is slated to release 100 different Converse models between December 2007 and March 2008. The inaugural December release will see some archival models released dating back to 1922 to 1999. Each pair will be packaged in a special commemorative edition blue box. Stay tuned for more details regarding the monthly releases. Image: Converse THANK YOU! WANT YOU! via Kix-Files

The latest inspiration for the soon to be 100 year old All-Star model from Converse is the textile pack. Utilizing a series of classic materials and patterns such as pin-stripes and plaid. An interesting design feature is the inclusion of material on the toe-cap of one of the plaid creations, a concept not often seen. Look for these at select Converse dealers.