Converse
The shoe that has been around for over a century and is still a classic: Converse. With a style to fit everyone’s wants and needs, Converse has become a staple in many teen shoe collection. Starting off as basketball shoes in 1917, Converse has become a fashion trend and is here to stay another century more.
Converse has come a long way in a fashion sense. A decade ago, you might find teens wearing Converse almost up to their knees, but they have evolved since then. Now, the style that is in high praise is the regular, Chuck 70s, and platforms. The shoe is simple to style and very versatile, which is most likely the selling point for many people. They are able to mix and match the shoe with all kinds of outfits. Keep it casual with a pair of jeans or leggings and a t-shirt, or dress it up with a nice pair of pants, or even a dress. There really isn’t a wrong way to go when it comes to this shoe, it’s a wardrobe staple!
Another reason Converse is so popular is its ever-changing styles and durability. While there is the original Chuck Taylors, there is also low top, slip-on, boots, platforms and even more. If the classic high tops aren’t your jam, there are many other options. Recently, platforms have become a popular style. Maybe their growth in popularity is because there was a need for something new, but whatever it is, lots of people are here for it.
Converse has shown over and over that they will be the staple in many people’s closets, which is great news for anyone with Converse. They will always put an outfit together and withstand the test of time.
J. Cole: KOD
North Carolina’s own, Jermaine Cole (J. Cole), has had a very successful year. Highlights include releasing his fourth album KOD. The acronym is understood to be defined in three ways: Kids on Drugs, King Overdose and Kill Our Demons. The album, released on April 20, speaks about topics that anyone can relate to: mental health, love, addiction and money management.
The theme of the album is about choosing responsible ways to handle our demons. The 12-song album featured only one artist named kiLL edward. This isn’t the first time he has been featured on a J. Cole song. As he was first featured on Cole’s second album Born Sinner in 2013. Fans speculate that the artist is an alter ego of Cole.
Along with the record-shattering album, Cole was featured on many tracks throughout the year. Artists like JID, 6LACK, Wale, Miguel and Bas partnered up with Cole to make this an electric year in Hip-Hop. 6LACK and Cole have been nominated for Best Rap Performance for their collaboration on “Pretty Little Fears.” The lyrical rapper, J.Cole, and Miguel have been nominated for Best R&B Song with “Come Through and Chill.” In total, Cole has had seven Grammy nominations in his career.
The Fayetteville native didn’t stop there. Throughout the year, he has collaborated with both well-rounded and up-and-coming artists. J. Cole’s label Dreamville will have a concert right here in Raleigh. The music festival was previously scheduled for September 15, but when Hurricane Florence struck the Carolinas, Dreamville postponed until April 6.
Cole is a talented artist and will continue to make new waves for years to come. Cole World.