THE JOURNAL
In the not-too-distant past, runways were the preserve of the dress shoe and sneaker choice was largely restricted to sportswear brands. In the 1980s and 1990s, cultural shifts saw street and athletic styles transported into the high-fashion arena as attitudes and dress codes relaxed. Since, the majority of designer labels have expanded into casual footwear, taking the opportunity to push things further than their sporting counterparts. Embellishment, premium fabrics, bold colourways and playful proportions are used to create sneakers that stand out from your regular rotation of tennis shoes. We’ve rounded up our favourite from the new season, so take this as a prompt to invest in a pair and add an immediate point of interest to your spring wardrobe.
01.
The AMIRI signature sneakers
California label AMIRI has made the bone motif its signature, using it on everything from knitwear to bomber jackets in its rock’n’roll-inspired collections. Here, it features as contrasting hand-cut leather appliqués on a classic 1990s low-top shoe. Pair it with baggy jeans for a retro streetwear vibe.
02.
The Balenciaga x adidas must-have style
A key step in the elevation of sneakers into high fashion was the collaboration between sports stars and luxury labels. We’ve now come full circle as adidas joins forces with hype-sneaker superstar Balenciaga, to create an updated version of the beloved Triple S. The model combines a triple-stacked sole with Stan Smith heel tabs and the instantly recognisable three stripes.
03.
The pared-back CELINE HOMME classic
Known for channelling a combination of Parisian streetwear cool and Americana-inspired style into its directional collections, CELINE HOMME is the brand to turn to for a chic take on classic sneakers. The CT-04 model combines a vintage shape, colour-block leather panelling and a logo heel to create a simple and sharp shoe.
04.
The Rick Owens rubber pair
Never one to shy away from eccentric shapes and unexpected silhouettes, Rick Owens take sneakers into an almost sculptural dimension. This seemingly simple pair are crafted from scuffed red semi-translucent rubber and feature an upturned sole and leather backing. Team with drop-crotch pants and a vest for the full Rick Owens grunge look.
05.
The monogram Gucci all-rounders
The very first pair of luxury sneakers was introduced by Gucci in 1984 and the iconic Italian label has never stopped producing its much-loved styles since. With this pair, we’re treated to leather-trimmed coated canvas stitched all over in the brand’s Supreme monogram, complemented by the signature striped webbing. Try these with chinos and a polo shirt for a slice of preppy style.
06.
The all-white Off-White’s
The label created by the late Mr Virgil Abloh is all about fashion for the here and now, known for its strong logos, feature tags, oversized shapes and a restrained colour palette. The Out of Office sneakers take a traditional tennis shoe shape and coat it in white, with subtle gel inserts in the soles and the vital hanging tag adding understated interest.
07.
The super-sole Moncler sneakers
For a fashion-forward sneaker with a practical edge, opt for one of Moncler’s models. The Trailgrip design is made from ultra-durable rubber, leather and Kevlar mesh, set on cushioning EVA midsoles and chunky Vibram MEGAGRIP soles. Form and function meet contemporary stylings here, ensuring you’ll look your best on outdoor adventures.