Sneakers were once reserved for the gym or sportswear, but are now officially a fashion must-have. These comfortable and stylish staples have become an essential for everything from casual wear to going out looks. Encompassing every silhouette from designer models to clean white shoes and retro dad-style sneakers, running shoes are now a go-to for any outfits or occasion. Unsure of which pair to choose?
In this guide, we’ve narrowed down the 5 most fashionable sneakers to have in your shoe collection. And the best part is, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one pair.
When you shop second-hand on Vestiaire Collective, you get easy, affordable and sustainable access to all of the styles you've been dreaming of.
If you're going to wear sneakers, they might as well make a statement, right? Our favourite avant garde looks encourage you to go bold with your style. Far from being subtle, these sneakers are designed to add a flash of colour for a change from your classic white shoes. Whether you're walking through the city to the office or having a casual but stylish night out, these head-turning sneakers promise the ultimate in cool.
When it comes to design, brands like Louis Vuitton are taking inspiration from the neo-futurist trend. Their ultra-popular Archlight pushes the boundaries with an oversized, curved sole that comfortably elevates the wearer several inches off the ground. These sneakers pair effortlessly with both elegant and minimalist looks. A statement-maker, the Archlight elevates practically any look. In a similar spirit, Prada's Cloudbust Thunder offers a notched sole and a style that's halfway between a military boot and an XXL running shoe, creating a look that promises to draw attention.
Whether you're a fan of canvas or leather, Adidas' iconic Yeezy shoes have been turning heads for several seasons now. Known as the most sought-after sneakers in the world, they are constantly revisited and updated with new and more sophisticated details. These shoes are proof that a trending style is not necessarily ephemeral. Worn by both men and women, the Yeezy symbolises the gender neutral fashion that all generations have adopted. From Pharrell Williams to Gigi Hadid, stars around the world swear by the comfort of the Yeezy sneaker. Wait no longer to find a pair of your own second-hand on Vestiaire Collective. You’ll be doing a favour for both your wallet and the planet!
Although they may not be ideal for actual running, the sleek and timeless look of the classic white running shoe has been embraced by countless designers. This look is one you’re sure to wear for many seasons. If you're looking for an elegant pair that you can wear anywhere, white leather sneakers are an ideal alternative to heels or loafers. The minimalist lines, smooth sole and neutral aesthetic make them a chameleon that can be paired with a multitude of ensembles. The daring bride or groom can also wear them as wedding shoes with a short dress or a cropped trouser suit that slightly reveals the ankle.
The most famous designer running shoes are undoubtedly the timeless Stan Smiths from Adidas. Initially created in 1964 for tennis players, the cult sneakers made it into the Guinness Book of World Records in 1990 with over 70 million sold worldwide. It was also the first shoe to make the transition from sport to the street. The legendary model then disappeared from view but was brought back to life and returned to the shelves in 2014 with a modern twist, evolving into a must-have fashion staple for every wardrobe. Find them second-hand by browsing our wide selection on Vestiaire Collective. This season, the legendary Stan Smiths are available in a sustainable version made of recycled materials. One more reason to add it to your wardrobe.
Other essential designer sneakers are Alexander McQueen's low-cut oversized style, cut in smooth leather, which can easily replace more formal shoes for an important meeting. And for a sustainable look, Veja seduces us with their eco-friendly materials coupled with a Parisian aesthetic. It's hard to resist these timeless shoes.
Retro and one-of-a-kind vintage sneakers never escape our shoe dreams. Among our top favourites, the Adidas Supercourt sportswear sneakers were designed as a tribute to the ‘90s. These sleek white workout shoes are a versatile choice that are also completely gender-neutral.They can be effortlessly paired with oversized suits or more graphic streetwear pieces.
The much-loved Reebok Classics are surfing the nostalgia wave that's currently sweeping the fashion scene, but this pair will always be a winner. Another legendary running shoe is the Adidas Ultrastar, which first appeared on American basketball courts in the ‘60s. Hip-hop culture then took hold of them, transcending eras and trends to make the Ultrastar an icon.
One of our favourite vintage styles is the Nike Air Force 1, a look that combines pop culture and streetwear. This unisex sneaker has truly made fashion history. The first sneakers to feature an air bubble in the heel, they guarantee ultra comfortable cushioning whether they’re worn by major athletes or weekend warriors. Recently, Justin Bieber wore Air Jordan 1’s during a meeting with Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris, which is just one example of how Nike icons have a place in even the most formal settings.
Air Force 1's are available in over 1500 versions and in low, medium, or high cuts to ensure there’s a look to suit any preference. On Vestiaire Collective, you can find a broad selection of colour and material combinations, as well as sought-after styles from exclusive collaborations such as Supreme or Stüssy. Shop yours pre-loved and update your wardrobe in an eco-friendly way.
The dad shoe is a phenomenon we’ve been following for several seasons now, and signs show that it isn’t going anywhere soon. Worn by style seekers everywhere, this unmistakable sneaker features extra-large soles and exaggerated shapes that are both old school and unconventional. Anything but subtle, the ultra ‘90s dad shoes reach their apex when paired with a sharp, Steve Jobs-style look.
From Kendall Jenner to Jaden Smith, the sneakers that were once worn by dads on the weekends have now made their way onto the feet of today’s most fabulous celebrities. As surprising as they are tempting, these it-shoes are made of leather and rubber and come in monochrome or fluorescent colours with reflective stripes, velcro, or laces. One of our top favourites is the New Balance 608, which is simply perfect when worn with straight-leg jeans and a white t-shirt. A symbol of Gen Z culture and overlooked by luxury brands for many years, the dad running shoe has finally become a fixture in the collections of all the major fashion houses: Balenciaga, Gucci, Fendi and Louis Vuitton.
To find a pair at a friendlier price, download the Vestiaire Collective app. You'll have access to second-hand pieces sold online by more than 10 million members around the world. Turn on the alerts for the exact styles you're looking for so you'll receive a notification as soon as a member of our community lists it online!
The elegant and effortless casual-chic sneaker has a special place in the contemporary wardrobe. This hybrid look is a must-have because it can be worn to the office as well as out with friends on the weekends. The same sneakers that used to be restricted to casual Fridays are now allowed everywhere, and Monday mornings are suddenly much more comfortable because of it! Best worn in neutral and discreet colours, the casual-chic running shoe is perfect for bringing balance to a formal silhouette. This go-to style manages to stand in for heels or flats and still keep your overall look elegant.
When it comes to classic styles, we immediately think of Converse lowtops or hightops in canvas or leather. Perfect for all genders and ages, Chuck Taylor All Stars are easy to pair with raw denim or soft linen. Italian brand Superga creates designs that are also timeless and easy to wear. Long prized by skateboarders for their comfort and durability, Vans are among the definitive it-shoes that can be worn anywhere. It's easy to see why they're a natural choice for the office when paired with head-to-toe black or a well-cut mismatched suit.
For a more conservative style, the Puma Clyde never disappoints. This pair is a practical choice for any occasion in nubuck or smooth leather, especially if you opt for pastel shades which are a perfect alternative to white. Find them all and more second-hand on Vestiaire Collective and uplevel your wardrobe in an eco-friendly way.
The running shoe has proven that it can complete almost any look and is an essential part of every wardrobe. In addition to being effortlessly cool, sneakers ensure comfort and support for easy all-day wear. If you love the athleisure aesthetic, sneakers can accompany you to the gym, the office and even for evenings out with friends.
The best way to avoid sacrificing your earth-friendly values is to buy your next pair of sneakers pre-loved on Vestiaire Collective, where our community of over 10 million Fashion Activists give you direct access to one of the world’s largest selections of iconic styles.
When you shop second-hand, you’re not only saving money by changing the way you consume, but you’re also participating in a global circular fashion movement. The future of the environment is in our hands, and supporting this movement can help slow down the harmful effects that the fashion industry continues to have on our planet. We encourage our community worldwide to embrace sustainable, quality pieces and avoid the wastefulness of shopping new.
Reduce your carbon footprint and increase your style by finding your next favourite pair on Vestiaire Collective.