The Converse Chuck Taylor white high top is such a classic shoe. It’s sporty and clean and has been on my wishlist forever, but each time I try them out I wind up sending them back. I wasn’t quite sure what the issue was, but I kept attempting to make them work.

As I was ordering them to try yet again for this summer, I ran across this mid-top version and knew I had to try it out. I’m pretty sure the Chuck Taylor All-Star Madison Mid is a newer option from Converse, and I’m happy to report it’s SO GOOD.

Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Madison Mid-Top Sneaker

As someone with shorter legs who loves high-tops, it’s a tricky balance. All high-tops do not look flattering on my frame. Many of them cut off my legs and cover my ankles, making my legs appear stumpy, and I mean, that’s just not a look I’m going for. Showing a bit of ankle has always been more successful for me, and I’m realizing that was part of the issue with the classic white Converse high tops. I sized down a 1/2 size in these mid-tops (the same as I typically do for all Converse sneakers.) I adore them with both jeans and shorts, which is saying a lot! I typically steer clear of wearing high tops with shorts. And they’d be super-cute with this dress I like to wear with high-tops, too.

tee (s) | jeans (27)| sneakers (size down 1/2 size)

rebel tee (s) | levis 501 shorts or at UO (28)  | sneakers (size down 1/2 size)

Chuck Taylor Madison Mid-Top vs. Chuck Taylor High-Top

Here you can see the difference up-close. The new mid style is lower and has a better fit overall. The tongue is also a bit cushioned, which makes them nice and comfy. I honestly do still like the look of the classic All-Star upper, but they are so wide and almost “puddle” around my foot making my feet look bigger. And this is even a 1/2 size down. In the past, for my black All-Star high-tops, I’ve used an insert and that does help a bit with this, but I’m really impressed with the upgrades that the Madison mid has gotten.

Madison Mid Top | All-Star High Top

Here’s the same outfit above with the classic All-Star high tops. They look okay here, but still have an overall bigger silhouette at the base and look much bigger in person.

tee (s) | jeans | sneakers (size down 1/2 size)

SO, for this summer, I’m sticking with the mid-tops, because while I still love the vibe of the classic high-tops, the mids are just a little more flattering on my 5’4″ frame. What are your thoughts? Have you tried either? But regardless, long live Converse forevah, whatever style you love!

xo,

L

For down to earth-talk-with a side of funny-ish, follow me over on Instagram @laurajansenstyle. Some days there will be dance parties, some days there will be recipe ideas, some days there will be fashion, and some days there will be none of that… just a Portland mom trying to get through the day. All are welcome. xo