The Air Jordan 1 is often regarded as the most iconic of all sneakers, worn by Hall of Fame basketball player Michael Jordan during the last game at Madison Square Garden of his Chicago Bulls tenure in 1998. The shoe itself, introduced in 1984 when the athlete signed a deal with Nike, is now a street style symbol, which means building outfit ideas around it - whether with jeans, shorts, or dresses - is practically essential.
After ESPN aired a 10-part docuseries, "The Last Dance," about Jordan's famous career, his original red Jordans from 1985, aka the "Notorious" Jordan 1s, sold for $560,000 in a Sotheby's auction. But today, there are 36 editions of Jordans and counting - with a new model released yearly - many of which you can find on resale sites and buy vintage.
As long as Jordans are still on the market, their legacy lives on, which is why they're often the focal point of someone's look, and not just an afterthought. From denim with front slits that reveal the retro kicks with every move to tailored short or skirt suits that put the inimitable shape of the high-top in full view, find 13 smart ways to plan an ensemble around a pair of Jordans ahead. We're breaking down the outfits for every style in the book, whether you prefer neutrals and own classic, monochrome Jordans or you're in proud possession of a multicolor, multitexture design from a limited-edition collaboration memorable enough to go down in history.
Keep reading to get inspired while you shop the right Air Jordans to help you achieve each aesthetic.