Sneakers have always had a permanent spot in my shoe closet, next to the snow boots, black heels, and ballet flats. They’re always a reliable source of comfort, whether I’m walking back from pilates class or going to an industry event after work. But over the years, I’ve added trendier styles into the rotation, like a pair of Koio dad sneakers and velcro kicks. Last year, the dad sneaker reigned supreme, and now that 2019 has arrived, brands are scrambling to release the next “It” shoe. Based on what’s available to shop now, the runways, and the pre-fall 2019 collections, we’ve rounded up the 10 sneakers contenders for this year.
Tie Dye
There’s no escaping this year’s tie dye trend. The design has trickled down from tops to footwear, giving you gloriously colorful sneakers like these Pharrell x Adidas kicks. It’s just what you need to make your white summer dress pop.
Exaggerated Soles
Exaggerated soles are still in for next season, and this black-and-white sneaker manages to embody the trend in a sleek way. I’ll be taking bets on which of Wang’s muses, from Bella Hadid to Kaia Gerber, will be wearing these in 2019.
Buckle Details
Buckles were all over the runways, present on boots and heels at Alexander McQueen, Sies Marjan, and Louis Vuitton, and now sneakers are getting the buckle treatment, too. If you’re an early adopter of the trend, snag this Zadig & Voltaire pair. They’re a less chunky, but equally edgy alternative to combat boots for winter.
Living Coral Colorways
This Adidas sneakers is a must-have: a running-inspired design with a comfortable and supportive sock-like fit in a pretty coral shade (living coral is the color of the year, haven’t you heard?) that helps it stand out from your collection of black footwear.
Sneaker-Boots
Are they sneakers, boots, or both? These chunky lace-up kicks from MSGM make a streetwear statement, if that’s what you’re aiming for. Pair with crop jeans or wear them under a knitted sweater dress, either way they’ll take your look from plain to high-fashion.
The Espadrille Hybird
While we count sandals and flip-flops as practical vacation shoes, this new espadrille sneaker may be replacing both in our suitcase. The woven texture never goes out of style and a versatile white color makes for easy pairing with any outfit. This shoe will do wonders when it comes to creating extra space in your carry on for souvenirs.
Springtime Prints
Dad sneakers, but make them ultra feminine. The florals on this shoe are a nice contrast to the color-blocking patterns we’ve seen on previous chunky-soled kicks. The print provides an overall lightness to the shoe and reminds us spring/summer isn’t too far off. Just two more months, right?
Hiker Elements
According to several fashion experts, one of the biggest sneaker trends for 2019 is the incorporation of tech detailing and hiker elements. Take this Balenciaga footwear, for example, which is basically a more stylish version of your beat-up hiking shoe. Look out for this year’s everyday kicks to feature sturdy and functional designs.
Return to Minimalism
Will 2019 see the return of a more minimalist sneaker? Yes, in the form of this modern slip-on shoe. The insoles are made with memory fit foam and it features a flexible rubber outsole, so they don’t feel stiff. Perfect for your commute to work or picking the kids up from soccer practice.
Snakeskin Print
This Veronica Beard sneaker comes straight from the pre-fall 2019 collection. Which means that snakeskin print will still be in two seasons from now. Here, it’s masterfully incorporated into a sneaker form. The speckled shoe laces add an extra detail to make this footwear one of a kind. Don’t hesitate to purchase now, as it will sell out soon.
