Year after year, sneakers have been slowly—but surely—taking over footwear. What was once a shoe only worn by athletes and sports enthusiasts has turned into a full-blown fashion zeitgeist. And while heels, sandals, mules and boots are all wardrobe must-haves for the upcoming year, there’s just something about the 2021 sneaker trends that makes them stand out from the rest. Perhaps it’s the fact that each trend is cute and comfortable at the same time, or maybe it’s knowing that they add up to endless street style possibilities. Either way, these trends are ridiculously good, so go ahead and clear out your shelves.

Because sneakers have seamlessly made their way into the fashion world, there are so many ways to shop them. We’re seeing collaborations between sneaker brands and designers all over the place—New Balance and STAUD, Reebok and Victoria Beckham, Nike and Dior and Adidas and Prada, just to name a few. Sneakers aren’t just for working out anymore, people! They’re a major style must-have, approved by all your favorite retailers, brands and designers.

Of course, it’s likely you already have a pair of go-to sneakers in your wardrobe—but you can never go wrong with adding a few more. And once you feast your eyes upon all the 2021 sneaker trends, you’re going to want to shop each and every one. From futuristic vibes to fresh takes on vintage styles, there’s so much to love about these trends.

Leave 2020 in the dust (good riddance!) and move on to these impeccable sneaker trends. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about all the sneakers you’ll be seeing on Instagram—and hopefully in your closet—over the next 12 months. Grab your comfiest socks and get ready to slip on these stylish sneaks and go.

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Elevated Air Force 1s

Everyone and their mother owns a pair of basic white Air Force 1s, and it’s likely you wore the shit out of them in 2020. No more! Instead of repurchasing your go-to, stick to the classic silhouette but pick out a more stylized option. Whether that’s crazy colors, all-black or a special-edition style, giving your Air Force 1s an upgrade will definitely help you stand out from the crowd.

If colors sort of scare you but you’re over classic white, go all black everything, baby! These Air Force 1s will perfectly compliment the deeper tones in your winter wardrobe for an edgy, grounded look.

Neon kicks are slowly losing their cool, but more muted colors are definitely still in. I love the sky blue and icy gray pairing on these Air Force 1 Craters, made with recycled materials. Stylish and sustainable!

 

Call The Fuzz

If you’ve ever wanted to wear slippers outside of the house, 2021 is your chance. Sneakers featuring shearling details and fuzzy insoles are going to rule next year. These shoes really are just sartorially-acceptable slippers, and I’m not mad about it. For those who always have cold feet—or just like to stay cozy at all times—this trend is definitely a game-changer.

Buy: SeaVees Gallery Sherpa Sneakers $98

Honestly, these SeaVees Gallery Sherpa Sneakers look like slippers turned into kicks—and I’m really not mad about it. The sherpa look is so cute for chilly days, too.

If you just want a little bit of fuzzy action, try these Dr. Scholl’s Now Cozy Sneakers. The slim silhouette and black faux leather uppers will have you looking ridiculously trendy, and the furry detail on the lining and tongue of the shoe adds the perfect amount of fluff.

 

Brand To Watch: New Balance

If you’re always keeping your eyes peeled on Instagram or taking note of any street style round-ups, you’ve likely already noticed that New Balance sneakers are having a moment. The shoe brand has so many incredible styles that aren’t just for your trips to the gym. It’s safe to say that 2021 will bring even more New Balance looks, so you might as well stock up on a few pairs now.

For a simple, can’t-miss New Balance sneaker, opt for the 990v5 Sneakers in the classic gray colorway. They’ll pair well with all your street style looks; in fact, the brand often jokes that this style is “worn by supermodels in London and dads in Ohio.” TBH, I love both aesthetics.

A slightly different style I predict will pop off after the 990v5 craze wears off is the 574 Core Sneaker. Available in five colorways, this greenish-gray hue is definitely my favorite—neutral, with just the right amount of added interest. Plus, they’re almost $100 cheaper.

 

Luxe Labels

As we mentioned earlier, the hottest sneakers of the moment are made by footwear brands in collaboration with top designers. These collabs tend to sell out fast, but when you can snag a sneaker with that high-fashion seal of approval, you’ve hit the jackpot.

Reebok’s latest collab with Victoria Beckham features tons of trendy footwear, but our faves have to be the VB Dual Court II Shoes. The cream and yellow accents really elevate the idea of a plain white sneaker, don’tcha think?

Buy: Adidas by Stella McCartney Ultraboost X 3D Knit Sneakers $229.95

Stella McCartney has been teamed up with Adidas for forever and I’m always a fan of her fashion-forward sneakers. I love everything about the Ultraboost X 3D Knit Sneakers, from the textured soles to the tiny pop of indigo to the SM logo across the front. Also, it’s 2021, we don’t need laces anymore!

from StyleCaster