Let’s be honest for a second. The sneaker world can be incredibly snobbish. If you spend any time on forums or Reddit, you’ve probably seen the "Mids are for kids" or "Highs or nothing" crowd. It’s exhausting. But here’s the reality: fashion with mid top blue jordans isn't just a consolation prize for people who missed the SNKRS drop on a pair of high-tops. It’s actually one of the most versatile ways to build a wardrobe without looking like you’re trying too hard to be a hypebeast.
Mid-cuts hit that sweet spot. They aren't as bulky as the 1985-spec Highs, and they offer more structure than a Low. When you throw blue into the mix—whether it’s the electric "Signal Blue," the icy "University Blue," or the deep "Armory Navy"—you get a shoe that does a lot of the heavy lifting for your outfit. Blue is a foundational color. It’s the color of your favorite denim. It’s easy.
The Mid Top Stigma is Basically Over
For years, collectors turned their noses up at Mids. They’d point to the slightly lower collar height or the jumpman logo on the tongue instead of the "Nike Air" branding. But things changed around 2020. Nike started pumping out incredible colorways that the Highs simply weren't getting. Suddenly, you had the "UNC" Mids and the "Blue Mint" variants showing up on mood boards everywhere.
People realized something.
Most people aren't professional athletes or hardcore resellers. They just want a shoe that looks cool with a pair of joggers. The Mid offers a more accessible entry point into Jordan Brand history while maintaining that iconic silhouette designed by Peter Moore. If you’re styling fashion with mid top blue jordans, you’re participating in a legacy that dates back to 1985, but you’re doing it with a modern, practical twist.
The "University Blue" shade, in particular, has become a cultural phenomenon. Inspired by Michael Jordan’s alma mater, the University of North Carolina, this specific vibrance of blue has a way of making even a basic white tee and black jeans look intentional. It pops. It draws the eye down. It says you know your history, but you also value comfort and availability.
How to Actually Style Mid Top Blue Jordans Without Looking Like a Middle Schooler
The biggest fear with Mids is looking "young." Because Mids are often the primary stock at mall retailers like Foot Locker or Journeys, they’ve developed a reputation for being the "starter" Jordan. You avoid this by focusing on proportions.
Stop wearing them with skinny jeans. Seriously.
👉 See also: Why the Man Black Hair Blue Eyes Combo is So Rare (and the Genetics Behind It)
The silhouette of a Mid top blue Jordan is chunky. If you pair it with super-tight denim, you end up with the "mickey mouse" effect where your feet look massive and your legs look like toothpicks. Instead, go for a straight-leg or relaxed-fit trouser. You want the hem of your pants to either sit right at the top of the collar or drape slightly over it. This creates a seamless flow from the leg to the shoe.
- The Workwear Look: Grab some navy or tan Carhartt WIP double-knee pants. The rugged texture of the canvas balances out the smooth leather of the Jordans. Throw on a grey hoodie and a chore coat. You’re done.
- The Sporty Minimalist: Heather grey sweatpants (the heavy kind, like from Reigning Champ or Los Angeles Apparel) paired with a royal blue Jordan Mid. The blue provides a focal point for an otherwise muted outfit.
- Summer Vibes: Blue Mids with 5-inch inseam mesh shorts and a boxy white graphic tee. It’s a classic street look that feels breezy.
Blue is a generous color. If you’re wearing "Dark Teal" or "Royal" shades, you can play with "tonal" dressing. This basically means wearing different shades of the same color. A navy blue overshirt over a light blue Jordan Mid creates a sophisticated gradient that looks way more expensive than it actually is.
Why Material Matters More Than You Think
Not all blue Mids are created equal. You’ve got your standard smooth leather, which is easy to clean with a damp cloth. Then you’ve got suede or nubuck versions. Suede blue Jordans, like some of the "SE" (Special Edition) releases, have a much softer, more premium look. They look less like a basketball shoe and more like a piece of high-fashion footwear.
However, suede is a nightmare in the rain. If you’re rocking blue suede Mids, you need a protector spray. Brands like Jason Markk or Crep Protect are industry standards for a reason. One rainy afternoon in "University Blue" suede without protection, and your shoes will look like a muddy mess.
Breaking Down the Most Iconic Blue Colorways
When you're looking to integrate fashion with mid top blue jordans into your daily rotation, you need to know which blue you’re dealing with. Blue isn't just blue in the sneaker world.
- University Blue (UNC): This is the holy grail of blues. It’s light, bright, and airy. It works best with white, light grey, and cream. Avoid wearing it with dark browns; it usually clashes.
- Royal Blue: This is a deep, "true" blue. It’s aggressive. It pairs perfectly with black denim and leather jackets. It’s the quintessential "cool" sneaker color.
- Ice Blue / Powder Blue: These are almost off-white. They are incredibly subtle. If you want a shoe that replaces a basic white sneaker but has a bit more personality, this is the one.
- Navy / Armory Navy: These are the most "adult" versions. You can almost get away with wearing these to a casual office. Pair them with olive green chinos or khakis for a classic color combination.
Misconceptions About the "Mid" Cut
One thing people get wrong is the "quality" argument. There’s a persistent myth that Mids use "plastic" leather while Highs use "luxury" leather. While it's true that some high-end OG releases use premium hides, the gap has narrowed significantly. Nike’s "SE" Mids often use materials that are just as good, if not better, than your average GR (General Release) High.
Another misconception? That they don't hold their value. While most Mids won't resell for $1,000, certain blue colorways have seen their prices double on secondary markets like StockX or GOAT. The "Mid SE Signal Blue" and the "Mid Dutch Blue" are great examples of shoes that have maintained a cult following long after they left the shelves.
✨ Don't miss: Chuck E. Cheese in Boca Raton: Why This Location Still Wins Over Parents
The reality is that fashion is moving toward "wearability." People are tired of paying $500 for a shoe they’re afraid to walk in. The Mid top blue Jordan is a "wearer's shoe." It’s meant to get a little creased. It’s meant to be worn to the grocery store, the bar, and the park.
The Lacing Situation
How you lace your blue Jordans says a lot about your style. Most people tie them tight all the way to the top. Don't do that. It looks restrictive and stiff.
Try the "loose lace" method. Leave the top one or two eyelets empty. Let the laces hang slightly. This gives the shoe a wider, more relaxed silhouette that fits the "lifestyle" vibe better than a "ready for the court" vibe. It also makes them easier to slip on and off, which, let’s be honest, is a huge plus.
Practical Steps to Elevate Your Look
If you’re ready to commit to the look, don’t just buy the shoes and hope for the best. Fashion is about the total package.
First, look at your socks. White crew socks are the standard. They provide a clean break between the blue of the shoe and the color of your pants. Avoid "no-show" socks with Mids; the collar height makes the friction against your heel uncomfortable, and it just looks a bit "off" proportionally.
Second, match your accessories subtly. You don't need a blue hat, a blue shirt, and blue shoes. That’s "matchy-matchy" and looks dated. Instead, maybe have a small blue detail in your watch strap or a subtle blue graphic on your t-shirt. Let the shoes be the star of the show.
Third, maintain the shape. Because Mids have a bit more padding than Highs, they can sometimes look "puffy" over time. Use shoe trees or even just stuff the toes with some paper when you’re not wearing them. This keeps the "toe box" from collapsing and looking sloppy.
🔗 Read more: The Betta Fish in Vase with Plant Setup: Why Your Fish Is Probably Miserable
Where to Buy and What to Avoid
Stick to reputable retailers. With the rise of high-quality "reps" (reproduced sneakers), buying off a random Instagram ad is a recipe for getting scammed. Stick to Nike.com, Finish Line, JD Sports, or verified resale platforms.
Check the "Style Code." Every Jordan has a unique code (like 554724-411). Google this code before you buy. It will show you exactly what the shoe looks like in real-world lighting, which is often very different from the polished, photoshopped images on a retail site. This ensures the "blue" you're getting is the "blue" you actually want.
Fashion is subjective, but confidence isn't. If you like the way your blue Mids look, wear them. The "rules" of the sneaker community are mostly made up by people trying to justify spending too much money on shoes. The Mid top is a classic, the blue is timeless, and the comfort is undeniable.
Stop overthinking the "hype" and start focusing on how the shoe fits into your life. Whether you’re heading to a casual date or just running errands, a clean pair of blue Jordans provides a foundation that most other shoes can't touch. They are the workhorse of a modern wardrobe. Use them accordingly.
To get started, audit your current closet. Look for "neutral" pieces—blacks, greys, and whites. These will be the canvas for your blue sneakers. If your wardrobe is already full of loud patterns and bright colors, maybe opt for a more muted navy Jordan. If your clothes are simple, go for that "UNC" or "Royal" pop. It's all about balance.
Clean your shoes once a week. A quick wipe-down keeps the blue looking vibrant and prevents that "beat-up" look that can make Mids look neglected rather than "lived-in." A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your street style sharp.