The Nike Sneakers You'll See on Every Fashion Girl Next Month

Looking to test out the coolest new trends before everyone else? Introducing our new column, Cool Hunter, where NYC girl Rachel Besser will highlight the latest products and offer up unique outfit ideas worth trying this season. Up first? The newest It sneakers.

It's no secret that athleisure has turned fashion on its head. Hoodies and track pants are now chic staples in our wardrobes, and sneakers are viable shoes for almost any occasion. The reason this trend has reigned supreme? It’s rooted in comfort, but it’s also design-forward. If we look good and feel good, why would we wear anything else?

On the subject, perhaps the It sneakers right now (in my opinion, of course) are the Air Max ’97s, a vintage style that Nike brought back for 2017. While many sneaker connoisseurs were worried about Nike’s re-release of these special shoes for fear that it would dilute the appeal, the once hard-to-find Air Max ’97s are still highly coveted—and often sold out. But the best part about these shoes is not that they’re hard to get your hands on. This particular silver colorway, known as Silver Bullet, has become a cool-girl staple because it’s one of the few sneaker styles that look good with everything. The sleek design, sturdy construction, and metallic detailing make these shoes a choice option for almost any outfit, whether it’s a casual jeans-and-tee day or even a fancy going-out look.

The key here is how you style them. Since the metallic colorway acts as a chic neutral, feel free to play around with patterns and color. For a casual look, wear these sneakers with your favorite jeans and a fun patterned top. For something polished, go for a sleek skirt and structured top, or pair the sneakers with your favorite slip dress for a perfect day-to-night look.

Go on to check out my three favorite outfit formulas that work with the Air Max ’97s—and shop my favorite key pieces, too.

Statement Top + Skirt + Bold Bag + Sneakers

This look is all about pushing boundaries. One of my favorite, unexpected ways to wear sneakers is with a polished top and sleek skirt. The metallic colorway makes these shoes feel polished, so they make sense with the outfit. Throw on a pair of silver earrings to tie silver back into the look, add a bright bag, and you’re ready for a (super-comfortable) night out.

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

On Rachel Besser: Acne Studios Palm Satin Wrap Pencil Skirt ($264); Ellery Sugar Off The Shoulder Top ($918); Alexander Wang Cross Earrings ($295); Nike Air Max ’97 Sneakers ($339); Chanel bag.

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

Slip Dress + Tee + Cat-Eye Sunglasses + Sneakers

If your look can take you from day to night without having to change, you’re winning the game. A great way to achieve this look is by pairing your sneakers with a bold slip dress. The red swoosh in this particular pair lends the perfect opportunity to tie in your sneakers without being too matchy. Grab a pair of your favorite sunglasses and you’re out the door.

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

On Rachel Besser: Pamplemousse Venus Dress ($495); Adam Selman x Le Specs The Last Lolita Sunglasses ($120); Nike Air Max ’97 Sneakers ($339).

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

Printed Blouse + Distressed Jeans + Sneakers

Jeans and sneakers go together like bread and butter. Pair your favorite jeans with your Air Max ’97s and swap out your go-to T-shirt for a fun patterned top. The result is a cool, playful look that’s good for a chill party or a casual weekend stroll.

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

On Rachel Besser: Jacquemus La Chemise a Pois ($347); Nike Air Max ’97 Sneakers ($339); New Top Jewelry Necklace.

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

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(Image credit: Tory Rust)

Shop the Nike Air Max ’97s:

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Next, check out the leggings every celeb is wearing right now.

Contributor