STYLING RETRO TRAINERS

90s STYLE IN A MODERN FIT

Step into the timeless charm of 90s streetwear, where rebellion meets comfort and counterculture reigns supreme. From the iconic oversized fits to the retro trainers that defined an era, our curated collection celebrates the spirit of the 90s with a modern twist. Embrace the fusion of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge technology with classics from New Balance, Asics, and Salomon. Whether you're hitting the streets or making a fashion statement, own your style with our heritage tech collection, dropping online and in selected stores March 14.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE 90S STREETWEAR

Forever relevant and undeniably iconic- 90s streetwear is a style that's gone through several hoops to get to where it is today. What started as a revolt against power suits and the restrictive clothing of the 80s is now dictating mainstream culture.

When it came to trends, the 90s was a wealthy era. There is something very special about a period that witnessed the end of the analog- the CDs, the blockbusters, the magazines. Several pop culture moments defined the 90s street fashion: it's a whole world on its own.

When New York sitcoms piloted a decade of casual attires, people started seeking more comfortable and flexible wardrobe staples, unlike the padded shoulders and spandex of the 80s. It was also the time when grunge fashion and music gained popularity with bands like Nirvana. This trend embraced counterculture and favored the rise of basic, loose-fitting, relaxed fits like flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and chunky 90s trainers and boots. Clueless, Friends, Seinfeld, Radiohead, Britney, Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Aniston, and Winona Ryder are some definers of the chic 90s street fashion.

We can't talk about 90s streetwear without talking about skating and hip-hop culture and how streetwear originated from it. It is characterized by casual, comfortable clothing like hoodies, t-shirts, and retro trainers. Hip-hop, with its roots in African American and Latino communities in the Bronx, immensely influenced '90s streetwear fashion and is at the center of its resurgence. This look was all about oversized clothing, baggy jeans, and bold, graphic prints. Just the term 90s hip-hop fashion will probably trigger a long list of references for anyone who grew up in this era.

While hip-hop is largely still associated with going against the norm, one cannot deny its influence on mainstream popular music and high fashion. The term streetwear transitioned from just another fashion trend to an attitude and personality in this decade. While luxury brands were initially apprehensive, they eventually reckoned with this unstoppable force, resulting in iconic collaborations. Streetwear broke down and reinvented conventional roles of luxury fashion, encouraging them to open other channels and engage with a younger, fresher, new audience.

THE 90S STREETWEAR TODAY- A TREND OR A RENAISSANCE?

What goes around comes back around, and we are now witnessing the biggest revival of the 90s classics on the streets and the runway. Today, high fashion and streetwear go hand in hand, and there's been a huge surge in the number of streetwear brands. It is not uncommon to see streetwear aesthetics on the runway anymore.

While there are too many to list down, some of the iconic styles of the time that have now returned include oversized cuts, baggy fits, puffer jackets, sportswear, cargo pants and skirts, chunky retro trainers, denim, big logos, Timberlands boots, bucket hats, luxury tracksuits, Air Jordans, minimalist and monochrome looks, and much more. There is no denying it is a moment of cultural renaissance.

What's more? These styles, mainly 90s trainers, are now being reimagined with modern technology to create a hybrid look that's both vintage and modern at the same time. This is called Heritage Tech. And these retro trainers are what you need to have in your wardrobe for that 90s aesthetic.

FOOTLOCKER PICKS- RETRO TRAINERS TO KNOW

We caught up with Jumoke, our Striper from London, to get her take on Heritage Tech. She defines the trend as a fusion of old-school streetwear fashion with a modernized take, balancing popular 90s street style with contemporary trends of today. According to her, the key to pulling off this trend lies in the combination of trainers and clothes. "Dad sneakers" like the New Balance 9060 and 530, paired with cargo pants or a nylon tracksuit, reign supreme in emulating 90s streetwear, offering versatility that easily transitions from retro to modern with a simple material swap or by embracing an oversized silhouette. Whether you are an athlete or not, everyone loves a good tracksuit and 90s-style, modern-fitted retro trainers. So here are our favorite picks of chunky Heritage Tech trainers that we think you need to cop this season:

New Balance - New Balance 9060 and NB530

Earning its stripes in the world of performance running shoes, New Balance swiftly emerged as a heavyweight in the streetwear arena. As youth culture flourished alongside the rise of streetwear aesthetics, the brand found itself pioneering the movement, seamlessly blending functionality with fashion to birth retro running trainers that struck a chord with the style-savvy. Among the collection of New Balance's street style and Heritage Tech marvels stand two iconic models: the New Balance 9060 and the New Balance 530.

The New Balance 9060, hailing from the dawn of the 90s, captures the essence of the era's street style with its chunky silhouette and bold color blocking. Crafted from premium materials like suede, leather, and mesh, the 9060 offers both durability and day-long comfort. Enhanced with modern features such as lightweight REVlite midsole cushioning, it reigns supreme in the realm of responsive support and comfort. Meanwhile, innovative outsole designs boost traction and stability, elevating not only the sneaker's performance but also its contemporary allure, cementing its status as a standout choice for trendsetting sneakerheads.

Likewise, the New Balance 530, making its debut in 1992, seamlessly fuses vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge performance features, making it an essential for any 90s street style look. The 530 sets itself apart with its sleek profile and thorough attention to detail. Its iconic "N" logo, proudly displayed on the side, is a nod to authenticity and unparalleled craftsmanship. Moreover, modern marvels such as ENCAP midsole cushioning and C-CAP technology ensure superior comfort and support for everyday wear, whether strolling the city streets or making a statement.

Styling Tips for Your New Balance 9060

In search of the perfect on-the-go fit? Look no further than the New Balance 9060—a seamless blend between a 90s look and the contemporary "chunky sneaker" trend. Pair these modernized retro trainers with a regular-fit khaki cargo and a sleek black tee. Elevate the outfit with a zip-up jacket and a vibrant cap to infuse a dash of flair.

Styling Tips for Your New Balance 530

Level up your 90s street style look by blending vintage aesthetics with a modern edge. For a refined New Balance 530 ensemble, opt for classic oversized cargo pants paired with a simple long-sleeved tee. Add a touch of edge with a chunky scarf or add a zip-up track top in a vibrant hue to punch up your look with personality.

ASICS - Asics Gel 1130

Founded in 1949 in Japan, the ASICS brand initially made strides in producing basketball shoes, championing youth health and sportsmanship. However, it wasn't until the 1960s, with the expansion into running shoes, that ASICS truly made its mark, paving the way for exponential growth and acclaim in the athletic footwear domain. The introduction of ASICS GEL cushioning technology in 1986 marked a turning point, revolutionizing the industry by giving runners unparalleled comfort and support. Enter the Asics Gel 1130, solidifying ASICS's standing in the realm of 90s streetwear and retro trainers.

The Asics Gel 1130 seamlessly marries performance with style, boasting neutral and vibrant colorways and top-tier materials like breathable mesh and robust synthetic overlays. Impeccable details, from sleek lines to textured panels, enhance its aesthetic appeal. However, it's the incorporation of modern technology that truly sets the Gel 1130 apart. ASICS's signature Gel cushioning technology in the midsole delivers unmatched support and shock absorption, making it an ideal companion for athletic endeavors and daily wear alike. With the subtle insignia adorning the shoe, the Asics Gel 1130 effortlessly merges performance with fashion-forward design, ensuring its place as an essential component of any street-ready ensemble.

Styling Tips for Your Asics Gel 1130

For an unmistakable retro running trainer vibe, turn to the Asics Gel 1130. Spice up these kicks by pairing them with black cargo pants or acid-washed jeans. Layer up with a cozy fleece vest or jumper over a neutral long-sleeve tee for a look that effortlessly blends retro charm with contemporary allure.

SALOMON- Salomon XT 6

Born as a French skiwear brand, Salomon seamlessly transitioned from niche outdoor purveyor to urban icon as the streetwear zeitgeist took hold. Characterized by audacious colors, imposing silhouettes, and an unwavering emphasis on functionality, Salomon sneakers captivated the 90s youth culture, embodying the essence of street style and sneaker culture. Fast forward to today, and Salomon trainers, such as the XT 6 continue to evoke the nostalgia of the 90s, captivating a new generation of fashion-forward consumers.

Unveiled in 2013, the Salomon XT 6 epitomizes modernity and sophistication, ideal for infusing your look with a dose of 90s flair. Its color palette, a fusion of bold hues and understated neutrals, lends versatility to myriad outfit combinations. Crafted from premium materials like breathable mesh and durable synthetics, the XT 6 prioritizes both comfort and longevity. Advanced features, including Salomon's renowned Contagrip outsole for unbeatable traction and EnergyCell midsole for responsive cushioning, ensure optimal performance whether navigating city streets or embarking on urban adventures. Meticulous details, from reflective accents to the prominent Salomon logo, underscore the brand's commitment to both form and function, establishing the XT 6 as a must have for your street style fit.

Styling Your Salomon XT 6

Care to be a bit more daring with your style? Embrace boldness with the Salomon XT 6 and push the boundaries of fashion. Layer black cargo pants beneath an asymmetrical skirt for that avant-garde look. Complete your fit with a simple black long-sleeve tee and finish off with a black puffer vest for a fashion-forward statement that commands attention.

Ready to own your look? Whether conquering everyday errands, hitting the gym, or gracing high fashion soirees, these versatile sneakers are your ultimate style companions. Get ready to reinvent your style with our heritage tech collection, dropping online and in selected stores March 14^th.