Credit: Jacob Pedersen
The Sneaker Making the Biggest Impact at Fashion Week Isn’t on the Runway
A look at what Melbourne’s most stylish are wearing this Fashion Week
In Partnership with New Balance
Melbourne’s Fashion Week may be about what happens on the runway, but the real influence starts on the streets. In the lead-up to this season’s shows, one sneaker has been making waves among Melbourne’s most stylish men: the New Balance 1000.
The sneaker offers a streamlined silhouette and Y2K aesthetic that effortlessly folds into the wardrobes of those who like to blend high fashion with cool streetwear and everyday function.
The shoe’s popularity this season is no surprise. The resurgence of ‘90s and early-2000s style has been dominating global fashion, and the 1000 feels like a natural extension of that trend. Originally released in 1999, the sneaker was way ahead of its time, leaning into futurism with sculpted soles, prominent overlay panels and a design that defied traditional sneaker norms.
Now, with the return of baggy silhouettes, oversized outerwear and statement footwear, the 1000 fits perfectly into modern style.
Credit: Jacob Pedersen
Hitting the streets ahead of Fashion Week, it’s clear the 1000 is a styling essential. Some lean into minimalist techwear, pairing the new ‘Dark Ice Wine’ colourway with monochrome fits, structured cargo pants and simple tees.
Others tap into its ‘90s roots, pairing the sneaker with vintage sportswear, track pants, relaxed denim and bold accessories that add personality to every outfit. Across each look, the common thread is versatility. The 1000 is a shoe that can be worn in any context, making it just as at home at a rooftop bar as it is on the morning coffee run.
Credit: Jacob Pedersen
One of the biggest influences shaping sneaker culture right now is the blurring of lines between high fashion and function. No longer confined to just one category, sneakers like the New Balance 1000 are leading this shift, offering a statement piece that doesn’t compromise on comfort or practicality.
While some shoes lean heavily into performance and others into aesthetics, the 1000 bridges the gap, giving wearers the ability to move through their day with total style and ease.
Credit: Jacob Pedersen
More than ever, personal style is taking priority over fashion rules. The rise of maximalism and men’s accessories, like caps, layered jewellery, and structured bags, proves that it’s the details that make an outfit. The bold purple and silver Dark Ice Wine colourway of the New Balance 1000 is no exception. It makes a statement while remaining unexpectedly versatile, creating the perfect base for any look.
With Fashion Week in full swing, the 1000 is everywhere. Whether you’re pulling inspiration from the Y2K era, blending high-low fashion, or creating a look that’s entirely your own, this sneaker is the ultimate foundation for any fit.
Shop all new New Balance 1000 here.
