Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- The New Balance 550, in collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore, has resurfaced as a style icon in the fashion scene.
- Once an underrated pair, New Balance 550 can now anchor a variety of casual outfits, extending from semi-formal pleated pants to simple shorts.
- The way you style your New Balance 550 can add a touch of personalization and diversity to your overall appearance.
New Balance 550: A Throwback in the Sneaker Evolution
In the sneaker world, each shoe carries a distinct narrative. New Balance 550’s story is a testament to resilience and revival. Initially released in the late ’80s, the sneaker’s lower cut around the ankle, differentiating it from contemporaries like the Air Jordans, did not initially resonate with the basketball community. However, it has reemerged, courtesy of a collaboration with the New York design-house, Aimé Leon Dore.
The visionary behind this resurgence, Teddy Santis, founder of Aimé Leon Dore, and now the creative director of New Balance’s “Made In USA” line, has put the New Balance 550 back in the spotlight. The Taupe version of the New Balance/Aimé Leon Dore collaboration has gained recognition as a luxury sneaker. It’s now impossible to deny the 550’s burgeoning footprint in the world of streetwear fashion.
Styling New Balance 550: An Embodiment of Versatility
The charm of the New Balance 550 lies not only in its retro aesthetics but also in its incredible adaptability to a variety of casual outfits. It’s a versatile choice that can transition effortlessly with different types of legwear.
Jeans have been a common pairing, accentuating the casual cool of the New Balance 550. This classic combo provides a crisp, casual finish, reminiscent of the ’90s, but with a modern touch. On the other hand, pairing them with corduroys or semi-formal pleated pants can provide a sophisticated twist, proving the sneakers’ multi-faceted potential. For those opting for a laid-back summer look, pairing the 550s with shorts can offer a refreshingly effortless style.
While the choice of legwear is subjective, a muted monochromatic approach, rather than bold prints, tends to complement the shoe’s style.
Harmonizing your Topwear
When styling the New Balance 550, your top acts as a counterbalance to your pants. A muted color choice for your legwear opens up the palette for a bright-colored hoodie or a patterned shirt on top. This interplay of contrasting tones can give your look an added edge without overshadowing the star of the show—your New Balance 550s.
For the more daring, pairing the vibrant versions of the shoe, such as the New Balance 550 Red, with neutral legwear can create a stark contrast. Matching the shoe color with your top can bring a cohesive, vibrant yet balanced look to your ensemble.
Creating Your Unique Look with the New Balance 550
The beauty of styling New Balance 550 is its versatility, allowing it to blend seamlessly with a wide range of style choices. Be it a semi-formal look for an after-work gathering or a casual outfit for a day out, the shoe compliments your style. But remember, the ultimate style choice should always resonate with your personal style and comfort.
In conclusion, the New Balance 550, with its style versatility and the ’90s nostalgic charm, offers endless possibilities in the realm of casual fashion. So, whether you’re a sneaker aficionado or a fashion enthusiast looking to diversify your wardrobe, styling the New Balance 550 will allow you to redefine your casual cool, starting from the ground up.
