Trend Alert: Sneakers Still on the Rise

Sneakers are quickly becoming a popular option for high-fashion and professional wear. Where once only heels and loafers were seen as dress shoes, today you can lace up and be red carpet-ready—literally. Kristen Stewart was just photographed wearing sneakers on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival. At this stage in her career, the star has become well-known for kicking off her heels and even going barefoot when she can. And Stewart wasn’t the only one that recently swapped heels for sneakers to complete her formal attire. Reports show that stars like Kaley Cuoco, Karrueche Tran, and Bella Hadid all paired red carpet-ready looks with comfy sneakers.

Photo: Getty Images

The strong support behind the movement isn’t all that surprising. It’s almost more surprising that it didn’t happen sooner. It’s a perfect trend for women who hate wearing heels. Obviously sneakers are far more comfortable, and they don’t require as much concentration and balance. And who wouldn’t be excited to be able to appropriately wear her favourite pair of perfectly worn in sneakers to more events than ever before? If you take a look at some of the trendier sneakers styles for the season, you can see how many high-end designers are taking advantage of the recent rise in popularity, particularly marketing their designs towards women. Names like Fendi, Alexander McQueen, and Marc Jacobs are all putting out their new spin on the classic design, with price tags ranging from modest and budget-friendly, to a couple thousand pounds.

There are slip-ons and high tops, suedes and leathers, straps, buckles, and laces. The styles are unlimited, but that’s not to say that you can just throw on any old pair of sneakers and still look fashionable. The fabric and colour you choose still has to complement your look. It’s the one general exception to sneakers’ newfound universal style.

One major faux pas was recently committed by actor Luke Wilson. Don’t repeat his mistake, and avoid wearing suede sneakers with a tailored suit. The formal nature of a suit doesn’t mix with the casual boho feel of the suede sneakers. Leather sneakers in black or brown make for a much more harmonious look. The same rule can also be applied for women’s formal gowns. Stick to leather.

Evie Switzer

The sneakers trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere for a while. Invest in a quality pair now, and you can continue to get use out of them with all different pieces for seasons to come.