From Queensland to the world’s biggest stage, Mary Fowler is what you get when a creative, free spirit meets the hopes of a nation. A true midfield maestro. The kind that can unlock any defence with ease. Mesmerising dribbles, passes and goals that leave your jaw on the floor are all part of the Fowler show. Just 20-years-old, her footballing journey has taken her to all corners of the globe. From New South Wales to Manchester via Montpellier. But this summer, she’s back Down Under for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ "Watching Mary Fowler at her best is pure joy. She plays with freedom." - Becky, UK. While she's a budding artist off the pitch, the green grass is her canvas too. And it’s no surprise those talents have taken her right to the very top. Forged in Cairns, tailor-made for international football’s lofty heights, her stints through the youth ranks made her one to watch, but at the Olympic Games, she truly took her place centre stage. "It was hard to look past Fowler at the Olympics. Especially in the quarter-final." - Pokuah, Australia VOICE OF THE FAN: "It was hard to look past Fowler at the Olympics, especially in the Quarter Final. Her best performance for the national team… So far at least. In that moment, it was like seeing the future first-hand. Rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s greatest and, at times, looking like the best of the lot.Grabbing a goal too. That touch and turn, that was special." - Pokuah, Australia That game might have been played nearly 5000 miles away from Australia, but the shockwaves were certainly felt back home. A young star in the making, stamping both her name and her country’s on the footballing map. "She’s an ambassador for not just Australian multiculturalism, but football’s too." - Tom, Australia And that’s where the beautiful game really works its magic. Seeing one of your own walk out onto that pitch, representing the team you love and doing things with a football you never thought were possible. "Having made her international debut at just 15-years-old, she’s racked up a fair chunk of caps ever since. It just illustrates how exciting the future of football here is." - Tom, Australia Now add in a FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ on home soil, and Fowler’s level of skill… The magic is growing.

Great players seize the moments that matter, but superstars go one step further. Alessia Russo belongs to that second category. A striker with more than just an eye for goal. Russo has an eye for the spectacular. Award-worthy finishes that get you on your feet; constantly tiring defenders with an endless bag of tricks. Like a football version of the eye of the storm, her style of play just pulls you in. And the fans that watch her week in and week out want you to know why this summer at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, Alessia Russo will be impossible to ignore. “She's relentless. Non-stop for 90 minutes.” - Harriet, UK And it’s her creative flair that makes Russo a true entertainer when she has the ball at her feet. Whether it’s rejecting simple goals in favour of the breathtaking, or her unorthodox road to the top. There’s always a surprise in store. "One minute you can be calm, just watching the midfield play around with the ball and the next minute, you’re up on your feet cause she’s running in on goal in an opportunity that feels like it’s been sprung out of nowhere.” - Tom, UK She went from Charlton to the top of English football via a stop in North Carolina to rise through the American college ranks. The only thing that wasn’t a shock with Russo was how easy she’d adapt to the international stage. A hit from the get-go. “I think her star power was clear to most of us after the back-heel against Sweden.” - Drew, UK VOICE OF THE FAN:"That moment is when we knew she was one of those very rare players. Most would’ve looked for a pass after the deflection fell to her feet. In that moment, it was like seeing the future first-hand. Not Russo, she, on the biggest stage decided to pull off what seemed impossible to the rest of us. One of those memories that will never leave you."- Drew, UK Her European Championship win on home soil, created a summer of memories. Yet, so many point to that one goal as the image that sums up her whole journey. An initial deflected shot that didn’t lead to disappointment, but instead turned into something special. Replayed over and over for months on end, the moment Alessia Russo pulled a whole nation into her footballing storm. “You could be sat in a stadium full of thousands of people, but she just draws you in” - Melissa, UK Since then, Alessia Russo has had English fans on the edge of their seats. Even when she’s chasing domestic trophies, there’s a constant anticipation for what magic she might pull off next. ”She makes you feel like it’s just you and her. One-on-one. When I watch Alessia play, I’m at my happiest.” - Melissa, UK This is what sets great players apart from those that are truly special. This is what makes Alessia Russo one to watch. The eye of the storm is heading FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ this summer.

Some may argue it takes a midfielder years to master their craft, but Lena Oberdorf is the exception to that rule. Just 21-years-old yet born for football’s biggest stage. With the ball at her feet, Lena runs the show. Her passes aren’t just hits, they’re signed, sealed and delivered to her teammates. Leaving no blade of grass uncovered. Even in her own words, she’s wise beyond her years: “I don’t recognise I’m 20. I feel when I’m on the pitch that people see a 28-year-old player.” And those that have followed Lena from the start want you to know that this wonderkid isn’t just the future, she’s taking over here and now. Starting with this summer's FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™. “With Lena, the future couldn’t be in safer hands” - Kevin, Munich When a player celebrates those same tackles just like a goal, you know you’ve got a winner amongst your ranks. Someone who understands how the small details contribute to winning the biggest honours. Take her performances at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022™, earning Young Player of the Tournament but playing like a seasoned veteran. Leading by example in a way only a future captain can. "I'm delighted every time she goes into a duel. It's unusual to celebrate duels in this way, but with Lena Oberdorf, you can’t help yourself. Her will to win and one-on-one strength, it's the reason we’re all looking forward to the World Cup." - Kevin, Munich But for so many, the signs of a player destined for the top were clear even earlier than that. “16-year-old scoring two goals and controlling the game, It’s crazy to think how fast she’s grown into the player she is today. That game will forever stick with me." - Jasmina, Germany VOICE OF THE FAN: “It was simple from the start. On her German top flight debut, in fact. A few experts already predicted she’d be special, but that was the first time I really thought 'Wow, she’s a talent'" - Tiziana, Germany From making her FIFA Women’s World Cup™ debut at 17 – receiving her call-up whilst in school and passing her exams during that very tournament - to adding the first pieces of silverware to her trophy cabinet. The writing was on the wall. And the influence of her success on the pitch is stretching far beyond the white lines. “She inspires not only me, but thousands of young girls” - Tiziana, Germany Initial predictions for Lena were that the sky was the limit. But now, her sights are set even higher. Because mastering your craft at just 21 enables you to redefine how your role is played. Inspiring your age mates doesn’t just cement your legacy, it can define a generation’s." “Even though she is still so young, she is already facing her third major tournament. She inspires not only me, but thousands of young girls who dream of becoming a pro one day. Her journey is proof of where trusting your talent can lead you in life.” - Janis, Germany Heading to this year's FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ with the support of millions cheering on her every move. Lena Oberdorf is shooting for the stars, just like she’s always done.

From Queensland to the world’s biggest stage, Mary Fowler is what you get when a creative, free spirit meets the hopes of a nation. A true midfield maestro. The kind that can unlock any defence with ease. Mesmerising dribbles, passes and goals that leave your jaw on the floor are all part of the Fowler show. Just 20-years-old, her footballing journey has taken her to all corners of the globe. From New South Wales to Manchester via Montpellier. But this summer, she’s back Down Under for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ "Watching Mary Fowler at her best is pure joy. She plays with freedom." - Becky, UK. While she's a budding artist off the pitch, the green grass is her canvas too. And it’s no surprise those talents have taken her right to the very top. Forged in Cairns, tailor-made for international football’s lofty heights, her stints through the youth ranks made her one to watch, but at the Olympic Games, she truly took her place centre stage. "It was hard to look past Fowler at the Olympics. Especially in the quarter-final." - Poukah, Australia VOICE OF THE FAN: "It was hard to look past Fowler at the Olympics, especially in the Quarter Final. Her best performance for the national team… So far at least. In that moment, it was like seeing the future first-hand. Rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s greatest and, at times, looking like the best of the lot.Grabbing a goal too. That touch and turn, that was special." - Poukah, Australia That game might have been played nearly 5000 miles away from Australia, but the shockwaves were certainly felt back home. A young star in the making, stamping both her name and her country’s on the footballing map. "She’s an ambassador for not just Australian multiculturalism, but football’s too." - Tom, Australia And that’s where the beautiful game really works its magic. Seeing one of your own walk out onto that pitch, representing the team you love and doing things with a football you never thought were possible. "Having made her international debut at just 15-years-old, she’s racked up a fair chunk of caps ever since. It just illustrates how exciting the future of football here is." - Tom, Australia Now add in a FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ on home soil, and Fowler’s level of skill… The magic is growing.

Love for equality is love for the game

Basketball sneakers — especially adidas Forums — are everywhere. Sported by rappers, athletes, supermodels and even your next-door neighbour, everyone seems to have a pair. But what gave the shoe its spotlight moment? Released in ‘84, the adidas Forum with its distinctive ankle strap for added support was a serious game-changer (literally). Aside from its next-level performance, the Forum’s leather upper ushered in an era of sport-for-style. The court classic quickly evolved into a coveted streetwear staple that continues to make waves in fashion and sport. But often there’s a concern on how to style the shoe, especially high-rise Forums. When styling Forums with pants — to tuck or not to tuck? Do they go well with dresses and skirts? What if I work a 9-5, how can I style the made-for-sport sneaker? We’ll let you in on a secret: there are no rules. You can rock Forums whichever way you like, but if you’re unsure how to start styling them— we’ve got you covered. THE CONCRETE RUNWAY: One source of inspiration are professional basketball players. During arena walk-ins, they hold the power to make or break fashion trends. That’s why it’s called the ‘concrete runway’ – a tradition where players turn pre-games into opportunities to flex their fashion finesse. Because professional b-ball players helped turn on-court classics into an everyday essential, they’re a prime source of inspiration for how to style your Forums. GET THE LOOK: Like players who pair sneakers with suits, don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles to create a unique and personalised fit. Taking a page from their style playbook, try pairing loose-fitting slacks with an oversized tee, statement accessories and adidas Forums in your favourite colourway. To add that extra something, throw on a leather jacket or bomber to complete the look. STAY GAME-READY: But it’s not just the pre-games where we can take fashion inspiration from basketball players. Here’s how you can recreate their on-court looks as well. GET THE LOOK: For that straight off the court look, experiment with a variety of made-for-sport silhouettes. How about a short-sleeve hoodie paired with drawstring basketball shorts, adidas crew socks and Forum 84 High shoes? If you’re going for a more laidback look, pair your favourite Forums with sweats and a comfy hoodie. FROM THE BASELINE TO BUSINESS MEETINGS: Business meets basketball. Thinking of bringing a sporty edge to your next meeting? We’ve got you. GET THE LOOK: To add a touch of street style to your fit, pick out a pair of Forum Lows (bonus points if the Forums match your suit!) Finally, throw on a long overcoat to complete the look. SPORTY CHIC: If you lean towards styles like dresses, skirts and delicate fabrics, shake things up with a pair of adidas Forums. GET THE LOOK: Pair a bright sundress, a form-fitting bodycon or your favourite dress silhouette with Forum Lows. Feeling chilly? No sweat. For the colder seasons, pair a thick maxi dress with a leather jacket, winter accessories and your adidas Forum Lows. A TIMELESS TRAINER: No matter your vibe, the adidas Forum is a shoe that you can work into any style. Whether you’re all for bold colours or muted tones, fitted formal wear or oversized casual, Forums are the go-to choice to compliment your individuality. So, if you’re looking for the perfect kicks for your fit, adidas Forums may just be your ideal match.

When it comes to discovering the origins of hip-hop fashion and sneaker style, it’s a chicken or egg situation. Did hip-hop create a new fashion movement or did it simply popularise an already-existing style? To find our answer, we need to look to the streets of New York from the 1970s onwards. A CULTURAL CHAMELEON: For the past four decades, the crisp leather and distinctive shell-toe of the adidas Superstar has acted as a blank canvas for culture creators everywhere. From its inception as an innovative basketball sneaker in the 1970s, to its emergence within hip-hop culture in the ‘80s and ‘90s, and to finally achieving mainstream appeal in the 2010s, the adidas Superstar has truly earned its stripes. The fittingly named adidas Superstar is considered an icon in sneaker history. Worn by each decade’s most influential personalities from star athletes, rappers and musicians to supermodels and streetwear enthusiasts, Superstars are sported by crews of daring changemakers who believe creativity reigns king. But what drove the on-court kicks to evolve into a coveted cultural symbol? Let’s take a quick peek into the history of hip-hop to find out. HIP-HOP HISTORY 101: To get a feel for how the adidas Superstar claimed icon status, we need to start by looking into hip-hop’s indisputable influence on style. Hip-hop is about more than sound — it’s an entire culture. Formed by the young Black minds of 1970s New York, they combined intoxicating funk and disco beats mixed with lyrical poetry to express their experiences of growing up in urban America. As New York’s block parties and dance floors caught wind of the electrifying sounds and energising lyrical commentary, the style attracted partygoers, break-dancers and graffiti artists, each adding their personal mark to the movement. As a result, hip-hop quickly evolved beyond the streets of New York and onto some of the world’s biggest stages, bringing with it a unique fashion style. THE START OF AN ERA: In the ‘80s a signature hip-hop style was in the works. Street photographers would weave their way into block parties, capturing the b-boys and b-girls rocking up in tracksuits, flat caps, layered chains and bling rings. As the hip-hop scene grew, the genre’s greats switched out flashy disco-inspired fits for adidas tracksuits, leather jackets and black jeans — a style native to the streets of New York. 90s NOSTALGIA: As we entered the 90s, hype for the Superstar never waned. In fact, love for the shoe only increased. The Superstar quickly spread beyond hip-hop communities and gained a loyal following from skate communities and the decade’s various emerging subcultures. EVOLVING TOGETHER: Today, hip-hop style continues to dominate the fashion world while adidas remains a household name within the collective. Since entering the hip-hop scene in its early stages, adidas has evolved alongside the community. As hip-hop culture grows and changes with each passing decade, the Superstar, too, continues to take on new forms. THREE STRIPES FOR LIFE: Since the 1970s, Superstars have served as a launching ground for countercultures worldwide. The shoe itself embodies rebellion — originally designed for sport, it was remixed by communities to represent creativity and bold expression. To this day, the spirit of the Superstar is upheld by its wearers. Whether hitting venues as a concertgoer, pounding pavement as a skater, or sprucing up fits as a streetstyle enthusiast — the Superstar silhouette invites creators from all corners to disrupt the status quo and celebrate originality in all its forms.

Wondering what to wear in 2023? We got you covered. We’ve scrolled through social media, sussed out what streetwear trendsetters are wearing and can confirm — the Gazelle is quickly reclaiming it-shoe status. Core-trends in particular help determine what’s hot. So, if you’re looking for some fresh style inspo or want to stay on the pulse of what’s trendy, keep reading. GETTING TO THE CORE You’ve probably heard of different -core style trends floating around online — cottage-core, retro-core, angel-core — but let’s be real, what does any of this even mean? Simply put, ‘-core fashion trends’ are the latest way to embody niche fashion and lifestyle trends. Whether you’re loyal to cottage-core’s light flowy fabrics, straw hats and floral patterns or you’re dusting off mom’s box of ‘80s clothes for a retro-core vibe, ‘-core fashion trends’ express specific aesthetics through style. In 2023, bloke-core is getting all the hype — let’s see what it’s all about. BLOKE-CORE & BLOKETTE-CORE: WHEN FOOTBALL CULTURE MEETS FASHION Leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup™ fans excitedly sported football jerseys — pairing their tees with everyday wear like low-rise jeans, funky belts and most importantly: adidas trainers. ‘Bloke-core’ quickly earned a spot in the streetwear hall of fame thanks to a growing love for vintage apparel and footwear. And, with the upcoming FIFA Women´s World Cup™, the style is surely here to stay. ‘Bloke-core’ as the style was named, took inspiration from ‘blokes’ in the ‘90s who would sport football attire on and off the pitch. (A ‘bloke’ is UK slang for men who live and breathe football.) With the ball rolling, the trend quickly made its way beyond football fans and into the grasp of this generation’s streetwear trendsetters. GET THE LOOK: To nail bloke-core, tuck your favourite football jersey into loose jeans or cargo pants with your belt of choice. To accessorise, stack on some rings, throw on a beanie or cap and finish off your fit with adidas Gazelles. (Bonus points if you’re rocking a mullet or moustache). BLOKETTE ON THE BLOCK Looking to add an element of feminine flair to your look? We got you — there’s also a sister trend to bloke-core: blokette-core. Blokette meshes feminine fits such as skirts, tights, jewellery and delicate patterns with the bold colours and prints of football jerseys. Recently, supermodels and trendsetters have joined the Blokette hype, pairing their choice of football jerseys and skirts with adidas trainers. GET THE LOOK: Start with a cropped or full-length jersey from your fave football team. Next, pair the top with a skirt and an athletic zip-up jacket. Don’t forget to accessorise with sunglasses, ribbons, legwarmers or dainty jewellery. Of course, tie your look together with a pair of adidas Gazelles. Hot tip: Gazelle’s come in an extensive variety of colours — so take your pick and cop a pair that matches your football club’s colours. A SHOE THAT KEEPS UP Since the 1960s, the versatile Gazelle has remained one of adidas’ most iconic sneakers. Lending itself to trends of the past, present and future, the Gazelle is continuously reimagined and restyled — living up to its reputation as a modern classic for all.

ALL THAT YOU ARE