With an enormouse increase in sneaker options and the rise of loyal fans, it's sometimes felt like no other shoe styles mattered—but that wasn't always the case. At one point, sneakers were purely functional, often designed in clunky and awkward silhouettes, meant to be worn strictly to the gym or for commuting.
But the script has been flipped as sneakers have become a key part of everyday style. "[Sneakers] are now the fashion industry's focus and have their own arena, with hyped launches and exponential resale values," notes Jamie Lee, a Shoe Buyer at Moda Operandi. So much so, that white sneakers have become as fundamental to one's wardrobe as a white T-shirt.
Brands are also investing in female audiences according to Kia Marie, a Brooklyn-based stylist, creator, and "kickfluencer" otherwise known as The Notorious KIA . She predicts the sneaker industry will continue to innovate and design specifically for female sneaker consumers. Especially as women continue to influence sneaker culture.
As sneakers continue to drive conversation in the footwear scene, Marie Claire turned to the experts, Lee and Marie, alongside personal stylist and sneaker afficianado Diana-May Kiori to weigh in on 2024's biggest sneaker trends, from chunky sneakers to the low profile Samba styles adored by celebs. Considering the sheer amount of eye-catching new sneakers that dropped in 2023, this year is sure to be second to none in terms of exciting new developments.
Neutral Ground
"Neutral colors are still going strong, thanks to the quiet luxury trend, but we're also starting to see pops of color and feminine details, like the glitter runners from Ghoud Venice and the woven detail from Chloé," says Lee. For a subtle color shift, look for sneakers that mix white tones with other neutral colorways, like tan or cream.
Opting for sneakers that aren't stark white is an easy way to add color to your outfit. Pairing them with other neutrals for a tonal neutral look.
Slim Chances
Following in the footsteps of the best-selling (and celebrity-adored) Adidas Sambas, minimalist designs continue to trend notes Marie. There's a vast new selection of sneakers with a similar low profile. Brands like Rothy's also offer this silhouette with the benefit of sustainable and upcycled materials.
The Adidas Samba sneaker will forever be a wardrobe staple and should be treated as such. Style them with other classic pieces, like trousers and a trench, for an elevated outfit boost.
Level Up
"The chunky sneaker trend continues to make its mark in 2024, but with a more refined, sculptural twist. High tops are getting more attention with innovative materials and patterns, giving a nod to vintage basketball aesthetics," says Marie. Kirori also notes shoppers opt for thicker sole iterations of classic styles with platform silhouettes that can add height and lean into personal style preferences. Some trendy options also feature cleaner lines and lower-profile silhouettes, making them easier to incorporate into your rotation.
Chunky sneakers are back with a refreshed look for 2024. Cleaner lines and added details— like platforms—make them feel fresh.
In Sport Mode
Channel sporty spice with a new crop of trendy athletic-leaning sneakers that feature high-tech details like embellished crystals or an all-over metallic finish for a futuristic touch.
Fashion's favorite sneakers are going sporty. Metallic accents and futuristic color combinations are cool when paired with an equally bold outfit.
Blocked Out
While black sneakers are popular year-round, color-blocked sneakers are a trending color palette this year that offer bright design elements for a touch of color that doesn't overpower.
Block it all out with color-blocked sneakers. Changing the color of your sneakers makes playing with brighter hues more accessible.
Bright Days Ahead
It makes sense for brightly colored sneakers to trend with the warmer weather, offering personality and mood-boosting effects. Marie notes pastel hues, especially in mismatched or gradient combinations, are also a trending summer shoe style.
Bright sneakers add a boost of fun to otherwise classic ensembles, proving their unexpected wearability.
Meet The Experts
From fashion and beauty to travel and wellness, Diana enjoys all things lifestyle. Most of her time is spent making recommendations and styling content for inspiration. She strives to create a platform where people can feel positively present, and engage with the people and brands she loves.
Jamie Lee is a footwear buyer at Moda Operandi. Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, she spent half of her life in Korea and the other half in the United States. She began her buying career at Dover Street Market New York. She now lives and works in NYC.
Kia Marie, popularly known as The Notorious K.I.A. is a Stylist & Content Creator from Brooklyn, NY. She was able to turn her love for fashion, style, and creativity into a full-time career. As a Personal Style Expert, she helps her audience discover their unique personal style and make smarter shopping decisions. She believes money does not buy style and loves sharing creative ways to get the most out of your wardrobe. With over a decade in the business, she is an industry leader and continues to push the culture forward.
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