Converse

Since 1908, Converse has shelled out its iconic sneakers to the masses in more than 160 countries. The footwear staple worn by basketball players, punks, preps and fashion-obsessed city gals is finally came to NYC with a massive store in Soho. Hit up this giant emporium to ogle the vast variety of limited-edition kicks, the brand’s latest collections of women’s and men’s apparel and accessories and a full customization center. The mecca is housed in a 110-year-old building outfitted with recycled-wood floors, high-school-gymnasium bleachers, reused Brooklyn-factory parts and a massive American flag made entirely from 648 pairs of red, white and blue Chuck Taylor All-Star sneakers, giving the store a vintage-Americana vibe. Shop the new apparel collection for rock & roll– and athletic-inspired duds, including graphic T-shirts ($28–$34), premium denim in 24 different styles ($68–$98), insulated outerwear ($68–$98) and genuine leather jackets ($298). Feed your shoe fetish by snagging a pair of rubber-soled low canvas sneakers ($45), offered in every color and print imaginable on a 40-foot-long wall that showcases the entire collection. Display some city pride by wearing a limited-edition tee ($28) or pair of kicks ($75–$150) featuring the different city boroughs and neighborhoods, including Soho, Williamsburg and Coney Island. But if nothing strikes your fancy, you can create your own pair of shoes, tops or totes in the colors and graphics of your choice with the help of a Converse customization specialist.