The New Balance 550 has made a triumphant return to the fashion scene, blending classic design with contemporary appeal. Originally released in 1989, this iconic sneaker has been reimagined for the modern wardrobe, becoming a staple in streetwear and casual fashion. Whether you’re a sneakerhead or someone looking to incorporate versatile footwear into your style, the New Balance 550 offers endless possibilities.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to style the New Balance 550, from casual everyday looks to more polished ensembles. I’ll also share tips on how to mix and match outfits that complement these sneakers, making them a key component of your wardrobe.
1. Understanding the New Balance 550: A Style Overview
Before diving into styling tips, it’s important to understand what makes the New Balance 550 so special. This sneaker is known for its retro basketball-inspired design, characterized by a low-cut silhouette, leather and synthetic upper, and a chunky rubber sole. The shoe’s minimalist aesthetic and neutral color palette make it a versatile choice for various outfits.
The Appeal of the New Balance 550
Timeless Design: The 550’s design pays homage to classic basketball sneakers, which gives it a timeless and universally appealing look.
Comfort and Functionality: Beyond aesthetics, the New Balance 550 is known for its comfort, making it ideal for both casual wear and long days on your feet.
Versatility: The neutral colorways, often in white, black, gray, and navy, make the 550 easy to pair with different styles and outfits.
2. Casual Streetwear: Effortless Everyday Looks
The New Balance 550 is a natural fit for casual streetwear. Its retro vibe and clean lines make it easy to incorporate into relaxed, everyday outfits that are both stylish and comfortable.
Styling with Jeans
Classic Denim: Pair your New Balance 550 with a classic pair of straight-leg or slim-fit jeans. This combination is timeless and works well for an understated, casual look. Opt for light-wash jeans for a laid-back vibe or darker washes for a more polished appearance.
Cuffed Jeans: For a more contemporary twist, cuff your jeans just above the ankle to showcase the sneakers. This look is perfect for warmer weather and adds a touch of detail to your outfit.
Distressed Denim: If you prefer an edgier style, distressed or ripped jeans work exceptionally well with the New Balance 550. The rugged look of the jeans contrasts nicely with the clean lines of the sneakers, creating a balanced ensemble.
Pairing with Joggers and Sweatpants
Athleisure Look: Embrace the athleisure trend by pairing your New Balance 550 with joggers or sweatpants. This look is perfect for running errands or weekend outings. Choose joggers with a tapered leg to maintain a streamlined silhouette.
Matching Sets: For a cohesive and trendy look, opt for matching sweat sets in neutral tones. The uniformity of the outfit allows the sneakers to stand out while keeping the overall look effortless and comfortable.
Casual Layers: Add layers like hoodies, bomber jackets, or oversized sweatshirts to elevate your athleisure outfit. These layers not only add warmth but also create depth and texture in your look.
3. Smart-Casual Ensembles: Elevating Your Style
The versatility of the New Balance 550 allows you to dress them up for more polished, smart-casual outfits. Here’s how to style them in a way that strikes the perfect balance between casual and refined.
Chinos and Button-Down Shirts
Neutral Chinos: Pair your New Balance 550 with chinos for a smart-casual outfit. Opt for neutral colors like beige, khaki, or olive to keep the look sophisticated yet relaxed. The sneakers add a modern twist to the traditional chino look.
Crisp Button-Down: Tuck in a crisp button-down shirt to elevate the ensemble. White or light blue shirts work well, but don’t shy away from subtle patterns or stripes for added interest.
Layering with Blazers: For an office-appropriate or date-night look, layer a tailored blazer over your button-down and chinos. The contrast between the formal blazer and casual sneakers creates a stylish, contemporary outfit.
Tailored Shorts and Polos
Summer Smart-Casual: During the warmer months, tailored shorts paired with a polo shirt offer a smart-casual alternative. This look is perfect for garden parties, casual business meetings, or summer vacations.
Monochromatic Outfits: Monochromatic outfits in shades of navy, gray, or earth tones create a sleek, cohesive look. The New Balance 550 adds a pop of contrast, drawing attention to the footwear without overpowering the outfit.
Accessories: Finish off the look with minimal accessories like a leather belt, watch, and sunglasses. These small details enhance the outfit without overshadowing the clean aesthetic of the New Balance 550.
4. Sporty and Retro-Inspired Outfits
Given the 550’s origins in basketball, it’s only natural to incorporate sporty and retro elements into your outfits. This section explores how to embrace the sneaker’s heritage while keeping your look fresh and modern.
Retro Athletic Wear
Track Pants and Windbreakers: Channel a vintage athletic vibe by pairing your New Balance 550 with track pants and a windbreaker. This combination is perfect for a throwback look that’s both comfortable and stylish.
Basketball Shorts: For a more laid-back outfit, opt for basketball shorts and a loose-fitting graphic tee. This look is ideal for casual outings or even a day at the park.
Retro Logos and Graphics: Incorporate retro logos and graphics into your outfit. Vintage sports jerseys, tees with old-school logos, or retro brand apparel complement the nostalgic feel of the New Balance 550.
See Also: How to Style Navy Shoes
Color Coordination
Matching Hues: Pay attention to the color scheme of your outfit. Coordinating the colors of your clothing with the accents on your New Balance 550 creates a cohesive and well-thought-out look.
Bold Accents: If your New Balance 550 features bold color accents, use those hues as a focal point in your outfit. For example, if the sneakers have red details, incorporate red elements into your clothing or accessories.
Contrasting Colors: Experiment with contrasting colors to make your sneakers pop. A neutral outfit with a bright-colored 550 creates a striking contrast that draws attention to your footwear.
5. Styling for Different Seasons
The New Balance 550 can be styled year-round, but adjusting your outfits for different seasons is key to maintaining comfort and style.
Spring and Summer
Lightweight Fabrics: During warmer months, opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, and chambray. These materials keep you cool while complementing the casual vibe of the New Balance 550.
Shorts and Tees: Pair the sneakers with tailored shorts and a simple tee for a casual summer look. Add a lightweight jacket or overshirt for cooler evenings.
Socks or No Socks: Depending on your preference, you can wear no-show socks for a cleaner look or ankle socks for added comfort.
Fall and Winter
Layering: Layering is essential for fall and winter. Combine your New Balance 550 with jeans or chinos, a knit sweater, and a warm coat. This combination keeps you stylish and cozy.
Outerwear Choices: Choose outerwear that complements the sneakers, such as a puffer jacket, parka, or wool coat. The contrast between the sporty sneakers and more formal outerwear creates a balanced look.
Seasonal Colors: Opt for earthy tones and darker shades during fall and winter. Colors like burgundy, forest green, and navy are great choices that pair well with the neutral tones of the 550.
6. Incorporating New Balance 550 into Your Wardrobe
Now that we’ve explored various styling options, it’s time to consider how to incorporate the New Balance 550 into your existing wardrobe. Here are some tips for making the most out of this versatile sneaker.
Building Outfits Around the 550
Start with the Sneakers: When styling the New Balance 550, start by choosing the sneakers first and then build your outfit around them. This approach ensures that your look is cohesive and that the sneakers remain the focal point.
Balancing Proportions: Pay attention to proportions when pairing the 550 with different outfits. For example, balance the chunky silhouette of the sneakers with slim-fit pants or a tailored jacket.
Mixing Styles: Don’t be afraid to mix casual and formal elements in your outfit. The New Balance 550’s versatility allows you to experiment with different styles, creating unique and fashionable looks.
Color Matching
Neutral Colors: If you’re unsure how to style the sneakers, stick to neutral colors. White, black, gray, and beige are safe choices that work well with any outfit.
Accent Colors: Use the colors of your New Balance 550 as a guide for incorporating accent colors into your outfit. This could include matching your shirt, jacket, or accessories to the color details on the sneakers.
Contrasting Colors: Experiment with contrasting colors to make your outfit more dynamic. A monochromatic outfit paired with brightly colored New Balance 550 sneakers creates a striking visual impact.
7. Tips for Maintaining Your New Balance 550
Finally, to keep your New Balance 550 looking fresh and stylish, it’s essential to maintain them properly. Here are some tips for caring for your sneakers.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your sneakers after each wear to remove dirt and dust. Use a soft brush or cloth with mild soap and water for more thorough cleaning.
Protective Sprays: Apply a protective spray to your sneakers to prevent stains and water damage. This is especially important if you’re wearing them in unpredictable weather.
Proper Storage: Store your New Balance 550 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider using shoe trees to help maintain their shape.
Rotating Your Footwear
Alternate Pairs: To extend the life of your New Balance 550, alternate between different pairs of sneakers. This allows each pair to rest and reduces wear and tear.
Seasonal Rotation: Consider rotating your sneakers seasonally. Use lighter, breathable pairs for spring and summer, and save the 550 for fall and winter when the weather is cooler.
Conclusio
The New Balance 550 is more than just a sneaker; it’s a versatile fashion statement that can be adapted to various styles and occasions. Whether you’re dressing them down with jeans and a tee or elevating them with chinos and a blazer, the 550 offers endless possibilities.
The key to styling the New Balance 550 lies in balancing its retro charm with modern fashion sensibilities. By experimenting with different outfits, colors, and proportions, you can create looks that are uniquely yours while showcasing the timeless appeal of this iconic sneaker. So, the next time you lace up your New Balance 550, remember that you’re not just wearing a pair of sneakers—you’re stepping into a world of style possibilities.
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