New Balance is a sneaker brand like no other. From its utilitarian Massachusetts roots to the fusion of high-quality materials with original standout design and the fact that it still manufactures some shoes in the US and the UK, New Balance is unique. That’s made New Balance and its roster of sneakers style standouts for the ages. Right now, the brand is more influential than ever, coveted for its superior constructions, unique colorways, and unsurpassed comfort.
To showcase the versatility of New Balance’s most popular models, we recently tapped photographers Flo Ngala, Jocko Graves, and Blair Caldwell to pair these sneakers with their own wardrobes and capture the results in stunning self-portraits.
Flo Ngala
Flo Ngala is a Harlem-based photographer whose work spans the worlds of portraiture, photojournalism, fashion, music, and advertising. Her outfits were inspired by the colors and silhouettes of each sneaker, resulting in colorful, textured outfits that were stylish and comfortable. Flo experimented with her looks, allowing the specific shoe to inspire each piece of clothing she chose.
She explained how she wanted to pair chic looks with comfort, and New Balance models made it really easy for her to express herself authentically. Flo’s favorite New Balance model was the 550s, which she paired with a vintage dress for a fun, unexpected twist.
Jocko Graves
Jocko Graves is a multidisciplinary artist whose mother gave him his first camera—a Kodak Cameo point-and-shoot—when he was six years old. He has become an accomplished photographer, who has photographed celebrities and leading fashion labels, with his work landing in some of the biggest magazines in the world. For his New Balance shoot, he aimed to highlight the versatility of the different models, showcasing how each one can be styled from day to night.
Jocko’s fits reflect his personal style, which is practical, comfortable, and always on the go. His objective while styling each shoe was to showcase how New Balance is more than just a sneaker brand, but a versatile shoe for different occasions. Jocko’s favorite New Balance model was the 9060s, which he praised for their unique design and chunky sole, making them the perfect shoe to dress up or dress down.
Blair Caldwell
Blair Caldwell is a photographer known for his striking portraits of music world legends. He loved how the New Balance shoes had a vintage feel, fitting in perfectly with his aesthetic. Blair’s outfits were subtle, with touches of color that matched the vibe of each shoe for a very fashion-forward look.
He explained how he was inspired by the shoes and immediately knew what vibe he wanted to rock. His personal style is comfortable and laidback, inspired by the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and the 2000s. His fits reflected that, and he found that the New Balance shoes were the perfect addition to any outfit that added a pop of style without sacrificing comfort. Blair’s favorite New Balance model was the classic 327s, which he paired with high-water pants and a vintage shirt for a classic, retro look.
In conclusion, these three photographers’ approaches to styling New Balance shoes demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of this iconic sneaker brand. Each photographer’s personal style was reflected in their outfits, showcasing how these shoes can fit into any wardrobe and be styled for any occasion.
New Balance is not just a sneaker brand; it’s an attitude, a lifestyle, and a symbol of quality and craftsmanship. The brand has managed to stay relevant for decades by embracing its core values and continually innovating new designs and colorways that speak to sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts alike.
So, whether you are a streetwear aficionado or a casual sneaker fan, New Balance has a shoe for you. With its incredible comfort and unmatched quality, it’s no surprise that New Balance will remain a staple in the fashion world for many years to come.
