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# Reptilian Zodiac Kicks
Converse Jack Purcell 'Year of the Dragon' Celebrates the Animal of 2012

By Matt Ho | Published 2012-01-02 | Fashion
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/converse-jack-purcell-year-of-the-dragon
References: [freshnessmag](http://www.freshnessmag.com/2011/12/29/converse-jack-purcell-leather-ox-year-of-the-dragon-croc-skin/) & [converse](http://www.converse.com)

[New Balance](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/year-of-the-snake-sneakers) is celebrating the zodiac animal of 2012, but the [Converse](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chuck-70s-1) Jack Purcell Year of the Dragon sneakers are looking to give the former a bit of competition.

The brand has already shown off two Chuck Taylor models that play off the Chinese New Year theme, but the Converse Jack Purcell Year of the Dragon has a different edge to it. Instead of being adorned with images of the mystical creature, this version is a low-top with a leather upper. What's worth noting is the [crocodile skin pattern](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/red-croc) that slowly fades into a different reptilian pattern as it moves its way up front. Of course, the scaly-look is a nod to the dragon itself. Other details include a red insole and toe guard which is a reflection of the holiday's lucky color.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.2/10
- Popularity: 43% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Chinese New Year-themed Sneakers:** Opportunity to create unique and stylish footwear designs that celebrate the Chinese zodiac animals each year.
- **Reptilian Patterns in Fashion:** Potential for incorporating reptile-inspired designs into various fashion items for a trendy and edgy look.
- **Lucky Color-inspired Accessories:** Chance to develop products that incorporate lucky colors associated with various holidays or cultural celebrations.

### Where This Applies

- **Footwear:** Innovative designs and materials can be used to create eye-catching and culturally-inspired sneakers for different occasions.
- **Fashion:** Fashion brands can explore incorporating reptilian patterns into clothing, accessories, and footwear for a unique and bold aesthetic.
- **Accessories:** The use of lucky colors in accessories such as insoles, toe guards, or other small details can create a sense of personalization and cultural significance for consumers.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Festive Lunar New Year Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skechers-street-uno-year-of-the-dragon.md)
- [Zodiac Snakeskin-Finished Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dr-martens-year-of-the-snake.md)
- [Snake-Honoring Whimsical Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-jordan-11-low.md)
- [Scale Texture Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/year-of-the-snake.md)
- [Lunar New Year Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/year-of-the-snake-sneakers.md)
- [Minimalist New Year Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/on-year-of-the-snake-cloudtilt.md)
- [New Year-Inspired Basketball Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/year-of-the-dragon-colorway.md)
- [New Year-Inspired Rugged Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/year-of-the-dragon-collection-1.md)
- [Reptile-Pattern Sleek Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chuck-70s-1.md)
