SNEAKER FASHION: 5 STYLISH PAIRS AND WHAT TO WEAR WITH THEM
New sneaker trends take hold each season, sending fashion tribes on a mad dash to secure the styles expected to make the most noise. But with a thriving decades-long subculture, is it fair to call sneaker fashion trendy?
Sporty footwear has officially invaded the luxury fashion space, with the top names in the industry offering creative spins on slip-on and lace-up sneaker styles. Leading luxury labels like Gucci, Maison Margiela, Givenchy, and Stella McCartney have all been clamoring to collab with the hottest sneaker brands.
TRENDING WOMEN’S SNEAKER STYLES
The popularity of women's sneakers has reached an all-time high. Established designers continuously flood their runway collections with innovative new spins on classic silhouettes. Here are some of today’s best sneaker styles:
Chunky running shoes
Chunky running shoes are enjoying a renaissance. Bulky trainers were commonplace in the past but have found new life, with brands like adidas resurrecting these heritage silhouettes.
Retro soccer sneakers
Unisex soccer shoes are one of the most sought-after sneaker silhouettes on the market. Several low-top variations like adidas' retro Samba have received cosigns from fashion authorities and influencers, who’ve each sported this trendy sneaker while out and about. Low-top soccer shoes are highly adaptable options that can just as easily be worn to the gym as they can to a fashion-forward social event.
Retro high-top sneakers
Although vintage high-tops only recently exploded onto the mainstream scene, their popularity with diehard sneakerheads has never faltered. Off-White keeps its founder's legacy in place with an assortment of basketball high-tops that serve as an anchor for the brand’s sneaker line.
Hiking shoes
Of all the sportswear-inspired trends that have come to the forefront, hiking shoes are arguably one of the more intriguing. Brands like Moncler have been steadfast in pushing hiker shoes forward, and showcasing their versatility is as simple as pairing them with trousers and a cropped top.
Classic white leather sneakers
White leather sneakers have long been considered the darling of the sneaker world. From Alexander McQueen and adidas to Nike and Gucci, sneaker brands and luxury labels have put their own spins on this classic style. Its minimalist design cues make it easy to pair alongside any outfit combination, whether a casual get-together or a fun night out with friends.
HOW TO STYLE SNEAKERS
Reserving a great pair of sneakers for sporty training sessions or casual outings is a notion that expired years ago—athletic shoes rival loafers for their ability to style alongside blazers and other dressy garments. Here are some ideas for dressing up with sneakers:
Hiking shoes with biker shorts
Although hiking shoes juxtapose nicely with a variety of bottoms, pairing them with other activewear separates is a great way to spotlight their sporty ruggedness. Combine Moncler's Monte Runner High-Top Sneakers with fitted biker shorts and a cropped long-sleeve crew neck to create a contrast in silhouette proportions.
Moncler Monte Runner High-Top Sneakers
Retro soccer sneakers with baggy jeans
Take old-school soccer sneakers from the pitch to the streets with a pair of distressed baggy jeans. Pair Isabel Marant's Beth Grip Strap Sneakers with wide-leg denim for a look that’s as classically cool as it gets.
Isabel Marant Beth Grip Strap Sneakers
High-top sneakers with mini skirts
Saint Laurent's SL80 Leather High-Top Court Sneakers are an ideal shoe to pair with a designer top and a mini skirt, whether a sleek pencil variation or a structured A-line cut. The tonal leather upper creates its own style statement in a way that won't clash with whatever it teams with.
Chunky running shoes with maxi dresses
Chunky running shoes can coexist alongside other closet classics, such as denim jeans, skirts, and dresses. adidas by Stella McCartney's ASMC Solarglide Colorblock Trainer Sneakers pairs nicely with a long, flowy maxi dress, a bold combination that’s both comfortable and stylish.
White sneakers with wide-leg trousers
A pair of clean white sneakers styles well with absolutely everything. Alexander McQueen's signature Oversized Sneakers are a genuine fashion grail that transitions between outfits and style genres with the best. Combine them with wide-leg trousers and an oversized cardigan for a trendy office look.
Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneakers
Sneakers are versatile footwear options that can fit any outfit or setting, regardless of the occasion. Workplaces are starting to allow kicks during regular business hours, and brides and grooms are often found swapping out traditional dress shoes for matching high-tops, proving fashion sneakers are at the peak of mainstream popularity. Book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for help finding your next pair of luxury sneakers.