Man's Patent Leather Sneakers

Currently not on view

Man's Patent Leather Sneakers

c. 1990s

Designed by Rei Kawakubo (Japanese, born 1942) Label Comme des Garçons, Tokyo (1969–present) Worn by John Cale (Welsh, born 1942)

Recent preoccupation with comfort and dressing down has intensified sportswear's historically strong influence on fashion. Special athletic shoes, introduced in the 1910s, became a staple of the mid-century teenage wardrobe and were worn for every occasion by late century. These two examples dress up the casual form: the classic rubber and canvas sneaker is revamped in patent leather, while the limited edition silver athletic shoes juxtapose high-tech materials with traditional, luxurious kimono or obi brocade.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Man's Patent Leather Sneakers

Date:

c. 1990s

Artists:

Designed by Rei Kawakubo (Japanese, born 1942) Label Comme des Garçons, Tokyo (1969–present) Worn by John Cale (Welsh, born 1942)

Medium:

Black patent leather, white rubber

Dimensions:

Length: 11 1/2 inches (29.2 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

125th Anniversary Acquisition. Gift from the private collection of John Cale, 2002

Accession Number:

2002-24-50a,b

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view