And Now, the Latest It Sneakers Everyone in Fashion Is Losing It Over

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(Image credit: @linhniller)

Confession: I've never been much of a sneakerhead. I like to think of myself as more of a casual sneaker wearer—I like the pairs in my collection as much as any other shoes I own, but I wouldn't go so far as to say that they define my personal style. I certainly didn't think I was the type to be subscribing to an email list for exclusive drops or setting an alarm to be the first to shop them. But lo and behold, that's exactly what I found myself doing when one pair, in particular, came into view: the New Balance 550 sneakers.

The heritage sneaker brand teamed up with NYC-based streetwear boutique Aimé Leon Dore to bring back the 550s, a late '80s basketball shoe style. The drop also featured a curated selection of items such as satin bomber jackets and baseball hats, but it's the sneakers that have gone on to earn It status. I constantly see them pop up in the feeds of fashion's most in-the-know people, who've taken to styling the retro kicks with cool basics like crisp shirting and relaxed denim.

While it has earned a lot of buzz simply because of its hyper-exclusive nature (the limited run sold out within minutes, prompting shoppers to obtain a pair through resale sites like StockX), the style also happens to hit on a big sneaker theme we've been seeing in fashion this year, namely basketball-inspired silhouettes, primary color palettes, and an overall retro feel.

One thing's clear: They've soared to the top of everyone's wish list, this editor included. Ahead, take a look at some standout styling moments and shop all the colors the must-have sneakers come in.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

The sneakers' retro feel makes even the simplest outfits come to life. Tap into the '80s vibe by pairing them with "dad" staples like relaxed jeans and a button-down.

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

The vintage-inspired silhouette is basically begging to be styled with tall crew socks.

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(Image credit: Backgrid)

An accessory all their own, styling them with simplicity in mind is always a good idea.

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(Image credit: @danie.sierra)

While the colors are subtle enough to work with plenty of different outfits, there's nothing better than a coordinated moment.

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Dare I say its *the* shoe style to wear with your loose jeans right now.

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(Image credit: @linhniller)

The clean and neutral color palette ensures they go with everything.

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(Image credit: @annazhenderson)

The sporty style lends itself well not just to athletic attire but even to the office, like our branded content editor Anneliese expertly showcased.

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(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

A closer look to really appreciate the detail of the gummy sole and suede toe.

Shop more from New Balance:

If you're a fan of New Balance, ahead, shop more of my picks from the brand this season. Standout styles include its new 237 sneakers and the perennial fashion-person favorite, 990 sneakers.

Up next, 6 Ways Everyone Is Wearing Sneakers in Paris

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Senior Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.