The Ultimate Sneaker Guide
The sneaker has undergone a sartorial evolution in recent years, cementing its place not just in streetwear, but on the runway and in the modern woman’s everyday wardrobe. From statement silhouettes to minimalist icons, discover the key sneaker trends of the season, how to style them, and the expert-approved care tips that will keep them looking immaculate
Retro sneakers
For modern interpretations of retro classics, you can’t beat Autry’s ‘Windspin’ sneakers in brushed suede with cream leather trims. The low-top design takes inspiration from the culture and lifestyle of the ’60s. Meanwhile, adidas Originals’ ‘Japan’ sneakers have a fantastically nostalgic vibe – they’re a reissue of a pair designed in 1964. Wear them with relaxed jeans and a cropped jacket. Elsewhere, Maison Margiela’s lemon-colored leather ‘Sprinters’ are modeled after vintage running shoes with cleated rubber soles and signature stitching.
Hype sneakers
If you prefer truly statement sneakers, look to brands such as Loewe and Bottega Veneta for kicks with a twist. Bottega Veneta’s futuristic ‘Orbit’ sneakers are made from metallic rubber, mesh and fishnet and have gripped rubber soles that nod to the label’s iconic intrecciato weave. Alternatively, if bright and bold is more your style, you’ll love Loewe’s tonal-pink ‘Ballet Runner 2.0’ high tops. Keep the rest of your outfit neutral to let them pop.
Technical sneakers
Sneakers have become more experimental in shape and color, with platform styles now the easiest and most comfortable way to (quite literally) elevate your look. Golden Goose’s ‘Lightstar’ sneakers, for example, are inspired by styles from the 2000s and have a space-age feel. Elsewhere, Salomon’s ‘XT-6’ runners are the latest style by the brand to have transitioned seamlessly from track to street – they look cool styled with everything from cargo pants to mini skirts. For off-duty style at its slickest, consider New Balance’s ‘1906R’ sneakers in cool metallics – style them with slouchy jeans and an oversized blazer.
Court sneakers
The beauty of understated court sneakers is that they are infinitely versatile and perennially chic. Pared-back designs in supple white leather or suede – from brands such as Chloé, Valentino Garavani and Gabriela Hearst – make a sports-luxe aesthetic easily achievable every day thanks to their sleek, clean-lined shape and subtle branding. The latter’s ‘Ohio’ sneakers were first seen on the SS25 runway and detailed with rainbow topstitching. Wear your box-fresh sneakers to the office with oversized tailoring, or with denim at the weekend.
Performance sneakers
Whether you’re a seasoned marathon-runner or avid gym-goer, sneakers that offer maximum support – and therefore optimize performance – are a must. Made from flexible recycled-mesh, On’s ‘Cloud x 4 AD’ sneakers boast Speedboard® technology for enhanced flexibility and are sure to put a spring in your step. If you are seeking exercise gear in an energetic palette, then Nike’s ‘Air Zoom AlphaFly 3 Flyknit’ sneakers are a worthy pick. Team them with a tonal workout kit from Lululemon or Adidas by Stella McCartney and put them through their paces.
How to clean and care for your sneakers
Like other shoes, sneakers – particularly white ones – need maintenance to stay looking fresh. First, treat them with a specialist spray, or Scotchgard Suede & Nubuck Protector, as soon as you unbox them, to protect against stains and help prolong their life. Then, “spot-clean, especially white and light-colored sneakers, to retain that bright look,” says Bronwyn Seier at The Seam, an online tailoring and clothing-repair service. Never put leather sneakers in the wash, either – they’re better off being sent to a specialist cleaner (although popping the laces in a quick machine cycle can pep up the overall look). And make sure any repairs, loose stitching or worn soles are addressed quickly. “Often, the upper can be stitched back together, and we regularly take on complete resoling or partial-resoling projects,” says Seier.
When you’re not wearing your sneakers, store them properly – that means away from light and moisture, ideally in a sealed box. But don’t despair if your beloved white sneakers lose their sparkle. “If they can’t be reset to white [through cleaning], there are plenty of options for repainting or dyeing them,” adds Seier.
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