It’s officially the end of an era for the beloved chunky sneakers—and the beginning of a new age for thin-soled retro shoes.
For the past few years, sneakers have dominated the fashion industry. They’ve become a vital part of the fashion cycle—originating from streetwear culture and eventually making their way into high fashion. Whether designer or athletic, a pair of sneakers is now considered essential in any wardrobe. Sporting a pair of sneaks has become a classic go-to look for everyone: an easy, practical, yet stylish way to go about the day.
However, they are not immune to the trend cycle. Before the recent shift, everyone was wearing chunky sneakers. Elevated, thick soles and bulky silhouettes, were the defining features of sneakers design not too long ago. If my memory serves me correctly, the Fila Disruptor rose to popularity in 2016-2017, sparking the chunky sneaker trend. This was followed by the release of the Balenciaga Triple S, the Prada Cloudbust, and other chunky designs that everyone wore and loved.
READ ALSO: Beat The Heat In Style With These 5 Filipino Brands
The Balenciaga Triple S and Prada Cludbust/Photos from Balenciaga and Prada‘s websites
Today, you can almost see everyone wearing thinner, sleeker sneakers—signifying a shift in trend and taste. People are now opting for nearly invisible soles, slimmer silhouettes, and retro designs. Additionally, ballet-like sneakers are starting to take over, further cementing the thin-shoe trend.
To help you shop for your next pair of thin-soled sneakers, we’ve curated five styles that perfectly embody the trend. From ballet-inspired flats to reimagined classics, these sneakers deserve a spot in your wardrobe rotation.
Hybrid Design
Louis Vuitton released its interpretation of the new sneaker trend with the LV Sneakerina—a hybrid of running shoes and ballet flats. The Sneakerina’s sleek design and silhouette make it a versatile piece you can wear on both casual days or more dressed-up occasions.
The vibrant designs of the LV Sneakerina/Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton
Lightweight Pair
The Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0 sneakers are a reinvention of the Ballet Runners, first released in 2019—the brand’s first iteration of a hrbrid between running shoes and ballet flats. The Ballet Runner 2.0 combines Loewe’s signature asymmetric toe with a 1970s running shoe aesthetic. Its flexible, comfortable design features refined Sacchetto construction, where the lining is stitched to the insole for a sock-like fit.
The Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0 sneakers are sleek and comfortable/Photos courtesy of Loewe
Retro and Timeless
The Golden Goose True-Star brings retro style back into focus. One of its key distinguishing features is the almost-invisible sole. The design echoes the brand’s classic Super-Star sneakers, but with a slimmer profile. The True-Star also features an extra double lace, allowing you to experiment with new styling combinations.
The Golden Goose True-Star is a redefined classic/Photos from the Golden Goose website
Spicy Collaboration
Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican singer known for his impeccable style and magnetic aura. Recently, he collaborated with Adidas to unveil the Bad Bunny Ballerinas. Capturing the spirit of Puerto Rican dance and music, the Ballerina sneaker reflects two core aspects of Bad Bunny’s artistic identity.
The Bad Bunny Ballerinas are sexy and versatile/Photos via Instagram @adidasoriginals
Femme Interpretation
Graceful yet inspired by the world of motorsports, Puma’s new Speedcat Ballerina debuted at Copenhagen Fashion Week. This hybrid silhouette merges the Mary Jane archetype with the sleek Speedcat, featuring an open forefoot, an elastic strap closure, and a streamlined design reminiscent of a ballet flat. The design perfectly blends the classic silhouette with feminine elements.
The Speedcar Ballerinas is a cute interpretation of the trend/Photos courtesy of Puma
Banner photo courtesy of Loewe.
