Inga Brauer is seen wearing H&M gray joggers, creme white coat, Balenciaga Triple S sneakers, Prada re-edition 2005 beige multi-pochette bag© GettyImages

Futuristic, retro and flashy: Chunky sneakers are the hottest footwear fashion trend of the season

Get a step ahead in style with these must-have shoes


UPDATED MAY 7, 2020 7:13 AM EDT

When it comes to sneakers, comfort is everything. Even so, in order for them to be the perfect pair, they have to good look and pair well with everything in your closet. There are seasons where the most fashionable designs haven’t met those expectations, but we have great news for you when it comes to  this season’s fashion trends : there are tons of options to choose from, ranging from one extreme to the other. From the most modern styles to today’s versions of the most popular shoes from 40 years ago, you’re sure to find the perfect sneakers to fit your style and needs.

Since casual looks with a relaxed feel are far from going away, take a look at these designs that will be seen the most this season—and probably the whole year.

© Calvin Klein

Vibrant colors

This season’s proposals from GCDS, Marc Jacobs, Balenciaga, and Gucci included bold and bright sneakers, with yellows and oranges being the most predominant. Yes, they’re definitely designed to stand out.

The Josslyn is made of resistant nylon fabric, suede and soft neoprene, featuring the emblematic monogram logo on the side. Calvin Klein ($149).

© Farfetch

Vibrant colors

These round-toe sneakers by Athletic Propulsion Labs are made of mesh in a bright shade of orange that will never go unnoticed. Farfetch ($197).

© Journey

Color block

Spring is colorful, but why not brighten it up even more with a pair of shoes in contrasting colors? They go perfectly with any equally high-energy outfit or can be the standout element that breaks up your monochromatic looks.

Check out the Falcon Sneaker from Adidas. They have a breathable mesh upper with color block suede and metallic leather details. Journey ($49.99).

© Bloomingdale’s

More color

The LQDCell Optic Sheer Low-Top from Puma have a round toe and breathable mesh upper. Bloomingdale’s ($110).

© My Theresa

Retro

They were one of the most comfortable shoes of the 70s and made a comeback in the 90s. You’ll be seeing them everywhere again this spring. You can find them with lightweight soles, a rounded toe and quilted high-tops.

The design of the Wing sneakers by Givenchy gets its inspiration from basketball shoes, with mixed graphic insets and perforations on the sides. My Theresa ($695).

© Anthropologie

Pastel tones

Add a contemporary finish to any spring-season casual look with the retro colors of the Gola Daytona Sneakers. Anthropologie ($80).

© Shopbop

With Velcro straps

The Velcro straps seen in the spring-summer 2020 collections of Coach and Stella McCartney showed us that we won’t only be using laces to fasten our shoes. They’re so cool and look so good that you’re going to want a pair in your closet.

The Veja 3 Lock Sneakers have a metallic logo on the side, padded collar, removable insole and rounded toe. Shopbop ($130).

© Michael Kors

Add personality

The Keeley Mixed-Media Trainer is designed in leather, scuba and mesh and features a pull-tab with the brand’s logo. Michael Kors ($63).

© Modes

Platforms

We saw the thick-sole sneakers on the spring-summer 2020 Prada runway and yes, they’re definitely making a comeback. In addition to being comfortable, they also have a modern appeal to them. This is great news for petite ladies, and they’re much easier to walk in than heels. That’s a plus!

The dramatically elevated sole and the fresh, informal fabric upper on these sneakers by MIU MIU make them perfect for wearing with your best off-duty styles. Modes ($580).

© Neiman Marcus

Ugly sneakers

A while back, chunky-sole sneakers managed to sneak their way into the closets of the trendsetters. Balenciaga has been, perhaps, the fashion house responsible for turning ugly sneakers into the most sought-after shoes.

Not only will track soles prevent slipping on rainy days; they’re also as on-trend as can be. Take a look at the Track 2 Open Metallic Sneakers by Balenciaga with reinforced toe and the brand’s name on the side. Neiman Marcus ($895).

© Shopbop

Platforms

Add height to your spring looks with the Liberty Donna Sneakers by Joshua Sanders in pure white with contrasting metallic details on the side. Shopbop ($196).

© Farfetch

Sock sneakers

If you want to protect your ankles, you’ve got to try these. Although they do go well with informal outfits, like jeans and maxi dresses, you can also wear them in more sophisticated, relaxed or elegant looks. Add them to your wardrobe and enjoy the ambiguity surrounding them.

These Sock Sneakers in pink by Diesel have a white rubber sole and printed logo. Farfetch ($100).

© Shopbop

Sock sneakers

Low Bolton Sock Sneakers by Reebok x Victoria Beckham have bright neon reflective trim and laces. Shopbop ($250).

© Urban Outfitters

Thick or shark-tooth soles

These track sneakers have a lace-up front, synthetic upper and a bold finish with their thick sole. Urban Outfitters. ($69).

© Shopbop

Futuristic

While the retro style is going to be seen everywhere, its futuristic counterpart will take the sneaker trend out of this world. Stand out with bold, daring designs.

The Aw Puff Trainers from Adidas Originals by Alexander Wang has a puffed synthetic leather upper, metallic finish and laces with a stopper closure at the back. Shopbop ($250).

© Nike

Futuristic

Nike’s Air Max 720 has a massive 15 in (38 cm) air cushion and an upper made from recycled materials. Nike ($97.97).

© Farfetch

Cut Out

Ask yourself: what shoes could be more comfortable than sneakers? Shoes that allow your feet to breathe. If that seems like a good idea, wear these with your spring-summer outfits. If the sneaker trend has already caught your eye, you won’t be able to resist them.

The Brooklyn 45 by Ganni have an almond toe, brand logo on the front and side and a rubber platform sole. Farfetch ($302).

© Ugg

Cut Out

The Ugg Gladiator Runner come with gladiator straps, thick soles designed to improve performance and a textile lining for breathability. Ugg ($135.99).