Stray Kids’ I.N Declares Chuck Taylors the Ultimate Summer Sneaker of 2025
SEOUL, South Korea – May 5, 2025 — Stray Kids’ youngest member, I.N (Yang Jeongin), has unofficially anointed the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star as the must-have sneaker of Summer 2025, sending fashion and K-pop fans alike into a frenzy. His recent off-duty appearance, where he paired the classic white low-top Chucks with a relaxed Stussy hoodie and vintage-washed brown jeans, has sparked a resurgence in the timeless footwear’s popularity, especially among Gen Z fashion enthusiasts.
The viral moment began when photos of I.N’s laid-back yet effortlessly stylish look surfaced on social media, prompting fashion outlets like Teen Vogue to spotlight his wardrobe as a prime example of “casual cool.” The classic silhouette of the Chuck Taylors, which have been a staple since their basketball court origins in the early 20th century, perfectly complemented I.N’s youthful and approachable image, reinforcing the sneaker’s versatility.
Known for his evolving fashion sense and often praised for his trend-setting street style, I.N has emerged as a style icon within and beyond the K-pop world. Fashion analysts note that his endorsement—intentional or not—has driven a significant uptick in Converse search traffic and online sales, particularly in Asian markets. Retailers have reported a spike in demand for the specific white low-top model worn by the idol.
Fans, affectionately known as STAYs, quickly adopted the look, recreating I.N’s outfit and sharing it across TikTok and Instagram under hashtags like #INStyle and #StrayKidsFashion. As summer approaches, more brands are likely to collaborate with K-pop idols to boost seasonal campaigns, and Converse may be riding at the top of that wave thanks to I.N’s unexpected influence.
In an era where K-pop stars play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping global fashion trends, I.N’s casual sneaker moment is yet another reminder of the cultural clout held by artists like Stray Kids on and off the stage.
