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The Down Low
Emily Ratajkowski is no stranger to a sneaker trend. Often the first to sport many of the styles that regularly catapult to sell-out status, the Puma Speedcat has been a favorite of hers for a while. The simple shape is now synonymous with urban style and has inspired a host of other low-runner styles, with a similar, racing-forward design. (F1 fans, please rise.) When it comes to styling, keep things street style-friendly, the supermodel way, by wearing these iconic kicks with a billowy trouser and sleek, leather trench coat, for maximum cool points.
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The Girl Dad
When Jennifer Lawrence takes the streets, we can’t help but take notice. Her style du jour these days has been the Dad sneaker—a favorite that we just can’t quit, either. New Balance may have been one of the first brands to bring these out of the archives, but you can look to other top sneaker designers, too, for equally comfortable and classic styles that are sure to save your soles. And although these certainly work for casual outfits, pared back to your favorite activewear or sweatpants, we love them styled with a suit, as well, for a modern office look.
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The ’70s Throwback
Fashion’s refreshed zeal for the ’70s continues. We’ve seen a rise in bell bottom jeans and Penny Lane-inspired coats, but the signature, standout trend, inspired by the decade of disco, that has caught our attention as of late is the retro sneaker. Whether it’s an OG style like the Nike Cortez, a favorite of Dakota Johnson, or contemporary interpretations by luxe brands such as The Row, Loewe, and Toteme, these sporty, color-blocked kicks are worth investing in. Here, we recommend leaning into warm, neutral tones as your best bet.
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The Skater Slip-On
It only makes sense that the queen of cool, Zoë Kravitz, is at the forefront of another Vans revival—the slip-on, skate sneaker. It’s an easy, everyday option that can be found made with everything from a classic, canvas fabrication, ideal for the warmer months ahead, to hardworking leather. True to her own, minimalist style, regularly inspired by the ’90s, these sneakers are the best complement to an effortless pair of low slung, baggy jeans—a silhouette the denim market can’t get enough of. Choose from the authentic, under-$100 option from Vans, or newer designer interpretations, like Bottega Veneta’s soft, leather pair, featuring their iconic, Intrecciato weave.
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The Pop of Color
As the weather starts to turn, it’s hard to resist the power of something on the brighter side. Making a case for a pop of color is Gigi Hadid, whose bold red Adidas Gazelles demonstrate the easiest way to inject a little life into any wardrobe. Stick with vibrant, primary colors—one of spring’s top color trends—that can really act as your outfit focal point. From Puma to Vans and Veja, these pop-coded kicks feel ultra fresh.
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The Hiker-Chic
Whether you love the great outdoors, or are simply a city slicker, hiker-inspired footwear has sparked interest within the street style set. Hailey Bieber’s recent outing in New York City had us immediately googling black-and-white combo sneakers with that trail-ready spin, to wear with everything from our standby leggings, hoodie, and leather jacket. Luckily, all of these have true performance properties, including incredible cushion and gripped soles, so you’ll never take a fall, even if that means just facing a slippery sidewalk.
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The Chunky Platform
If thin-soled sneakers are not your jam, try something with a little more lift, such as Zoe Saldaña’s chunky, platform style. The actress effortlessly paired her bright white sneaks with wide-leg denim and a white T-shirt for an undeniably simple yet stylish, everyday outfit solution. You can’t go wrong with any of the below, from Nike’s elevated court trainer to Puma’s hidden wedge to Alexander McQueen’s oversized shape. Even in stark white, these make a bold statement.
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The Courtside-Coded
Katie Holmes loves a white sneaker and lately she can’t seem to stop wearing Autry’s Medalist, a style released in 1982, the same year the Nike Air Force One sneaker came out; clearly, an impactful year in the sneaker realm, as these ’80s styles still keep us on our toes. Go for all-white options in this category for the most versatility in the styling department. They can be worn with everything from wide-leg jeans and a striped T-shirt, to a summer-ready sundress, once the hot-weather temperatures hit.
