Back-to-school shopping always gave me a special type of adrenaline rush. While I never really looked forward to waking up early again (my tardy record is still unbeatable), I did get overly excited to show off a more stylish version of myself every new school year. Because that’s what that first week is all about right? To use the hallways as your own fashion runway and show your classmates that you had a stylish glow up over the summer.
But there was always one little problem for me. Despite being a girl who loves fashion and uses clothes as a form of self expression, I went to a school that required uniforms. And no, not the chic Britney Spears kind. I’m talking old-school polo shirts and ill-fitting khaki pants or skirts. So when back-to-school shopping came around, sadly clothes weren’t top priority. The only way I could express myself at school was through my sneaker choice.
I remember every year, my mom would take my brother and I to Woodfield Mall (Chicago crew where you at) and we’d go on an epic search to find the perfect sneakers that defined who we wanted to be that year. I had a Nike Shox year in 2005 (identity crisis), a customized hot pink Nike Dunk Low year in 2008 (trendsetter times), and a long-running adidas Samba and Gazelle era (soccer player status). So safe to say, sneakers were not only my main purchase every year, but the item that helped me show off who I wanted to be within a restricting, uniform-wearing school. And to this day, I always look back on that time as when I truly fell in love with sneakers.
So it’s about that time to start searching for your own perfect pair that will define this school year. Whether you’re required to wear a uniform like I was or are just looking for a sneaker to rock everyday, these are the essential kicks you need in your lineup. The best part is they’re all under $200.
Jordan 1 Retro High OG in Lucky Green
If you want to really show off this school year, the Jordan 1 Retro High OG in Lucky Green is sure to turn heads in the hallways. This Jordan Brand sneaker is a classic silhouette inspired by the popular “Celtics” style from the Defining Moments Pack in 2009. While the build is similar to the original, there are a few fresh updates that take this sneaker into the modern era. The sneaker has the same lucky green leather on the heel and collar and the black leather Swoosh on both sides. However, instead of the Jumpman logo on the tongue, the new version has “Nike Air” branding for a more retro update. If you’re going for a “I know my sneakers, trust me” identity this year, this one’s for you.
New Balance 9060 in Rain Cloud Grey
When I was in middle school and high school (back in the early 2000s), I have to admit that New Balance wasn’t cool just yet. Back then, New Balance shoes still belonged to the normcore dad crew in my Midwestern suburban town. Nowadays, if you show up to school with a pair of New Balances, you’re telling people that you know your sneaker trends. Because New Balance is quickly becoming the “It” brand for the inner sneaker crowd. It’s that IYKYK style that true sneaker-lovers appreciate and admire. The New Balance 9060 taps into that chunky silhouette of the Y2K running shoe era while still delivering updated, modern details. I love the wavy lines and thicker proportions on the midsole for a platform-esque aesthetic. These sneakers add a trendsetter attitude to any back-to-school look.
Crocs Pollex Clog by Salehe Bembury Horchata
There’s a reason chefs wear clogs in the kitchen. They’re comfortable and give you support for long days standing on your feet. And not to mention, clogs are now a fashion statement. The “line cook aesthetic” has gone viral thanks to Chef Carmy in the popular series The Bear. So tap into your inner “Yes, Chef” energy this year by rocking a pair of on-trend clogs. The Crocs Pollex Clog by Salehe Bembury Horchata is the epitome of fashion meets function. Renowned footwear designer Salehe Bembury puts his unique and literal fingerprint touches on the design with its dramatic concave ridges, holes found on the upper, and adjustable heel straps. The materials and strategic design also add more breathability and support to these clogs, allowing you to walk from class to class with comfort, swagger, and style.
adidas Samba OG in Cloud White Core Black
I was a very dedicated soccer player throughout my entire school year experience, so it’s safe to say that adidas Sambas have a special place in my heart. It was so easy for me to wear them from the hallways to soccer training after school without having to pack extra shoes in my locker. Now, adidas Sambas transcend functional training footwear and, today, are a favorite lifestyle sneaker choice among the fashion crowd. The flatter sole and low-cut design of the Samba gives any outfit an elevated, clean look. I love the Cloud White Core Black colorway as it pairs with just about anything. This is truly an essential sneaker that will never go out of style.
Nike Dunk Low in Photon Dust (Women’s)
As someone who had to pick one sneaker to rock every school year, it was always a difficult decision. I spent many hours contemplating colorway choices that would look good with my school uniform, but also with after-school and weekend fits. Which is why the Nike Dunk Low in Photon Dust is the perfect essential for the new school year. The white and light gray colorway is like a blank canvas, just waiting to be paired with any type of outfit color palette.You can also never go wrong with a Nike Dunk Low. It’s an iconic silhouette that you can keep in your collection well past graduation day.
