Only one month into the fall season and we’ve already seen some sneakers take over Instagram and become everyone’s favourites. With a range of silhouettes, colours, and designs, influencers have started to set trends for this autumn/winter season earlier this summer. From the most hyped sneakers such as Dunks and Jordans to slightly less in-demand shoes – Converse and New Balance – there are plenty of options for you to choose from to match your style. Here is a list of statement sneakers to rock for your fall rotation:
Nike Dunk Low Bordeaux
If 2021 could be a sneaker, it would definitely be a Nike Dunk Low. The shoe dominated the streetwear scene at the end of 2020 and fully became a trend in 2021. Influencers and celebrities have worn this shoe everywhere – basketball games, fashion shows, music performances, and even movie premiers – so, it’s safe to say the Dunk will continue to be a go-to this fall. The Bordeaux model comes in a deep red colourway, almost burgundy – a shade that couldn’t be more appropriate for autumn/winter.
Air Jordan 1 Dark Mocha
The Jordan 1 Dark Mocha, released last year, is reminiscent of Travis Scott’s highly in-demand collaboration. The silhouette and the colourway are perfect for this season, the brown and black tones balanced by the leather accents give off the vibe of a clean and subtle look. Classy and casual, these sneakers can be worn with pretty much everything and anywhere.
Air Jordan 4 Retro Shimmer
First debuted as part of the Jumpman’s fall 2021 AJ Retro collection, the Shimmer is a sneaker designed exclusively for women. The colourway was inspired by neutral makeup palettes and features an electroplated Jumpman logo that nods to the mirrors often found in makeup sets. The peach-tinted shade is reminiscent of blush and the name itself brings to mind the idea of makeup. The Shimmer is a great shoe for someone in search of a feminine sneaker that goes with light-tones outfits.
Lanvin Curb Skate Sneaker
The French luxury house has been channeling the ’90s skate era with the Curb Skate Sneaker, the shoe has grown popular within the last few months. What’s special about its design and silhouette are the laces. Coming in bold zigzag patterns and very oversized, they cover most of the upper part and draw all the attention to them. If you’re after a comfortable shoe, but also want to make a fashion statement, the Lanvin Curb Skate sneaker is a great choice.
YEEZY QNTM Onyx
Kanye West’s Yeezys have been a top sneaker choice for years now. The ongoing collaborative series has been constantly putting out new sneakers; one of their latest offerings being the QNTM Onyx sneaker. Similar to the QNTM iteration, the silhouette also references other Yeezy models. The triple black colourway offers a Primeknit upper in a mix of marble black and grey shades, a suede toe cap, and a durable rubber sole. Although released only a few weeks ago, we’re expecting QNTM Onyx Yeezys to become a huge trend this fall-winter season.
Rick Owens Leather High Tops
Simple and chic, the Rick Owens leather High-tops can be your favourite pair of shoes for casual events and street style looks. They can complement an all-black plain outfit, but also tone down a more edgy look. The Rick Owens high-tops come in different colours and fabrics – velour, canvas, and cotton nylon. They can be worn with dresses, denim, tracksuits and still look fashionable. This is why we’re thinking they’re a must for the cold season.
Converse Run Star Motion
Keeping the classic silhouette alive by constantly reinventing it, Converse shoes never disappoint. The new model is an exaggerated version of the JW Anderson-designed Run Star Hike, featuring an ultra-thick jagged rubber sole in multiple colorways. In line with the oversized and chunky current fashion trends, the Converse Run Star Motion sneakers offer the perfect balance of a retro and futuristic style. For a bold and funky look and a desire to reach new heights, we recommend these.
Levi’s x New Balance 990V3
Although previously associated with an older customer base, the brand has recently started to enter the Gen Z sector. Recent collaborations have definitely contributed to establishing a more modern aesthetic and meeting today’s sneaker expectations. The 990V3 silhouette and design reference Levi’s signature denim and leather back patch and offer two colourways – blue turquoise and a grey-beige.
New Balance x Aimé Leon Dore 550 sneakers ‘Natural Green’
Yes, another pair of New Balances but this time, a leather model. Streetwear label, Aimé Leon Dore, has collaborated with the brand to reinvent the 550 silhouette’s aesthetic. To add their touch, they made leather overlays on the collar natural green and the embossed “N” logo yellow on both sides. If you’re trying to go for a more vintage aesthetic, but still wish to look trendy, we think these might be your safe option. There has also been a recent restock with multiple colourways so definitely check those out too!
Off-White ‘Out of the office’ Low Tops
Although the Off-White ‘Out of the office’ Low Tops have been in vogue for a while, they continue to appear on our Instagram feeds. Designed as a part of the AW/2021 collection, the sneakers are a must for this season. Referencing late ‘80s and early ‘90s sneaker trends, the silhouette merges streetwear and basketball influences. They come in multiple colourways, but these beige-white ones are definitely the most wearable ones.
Words by Alexandra Yassin
Photo Credit: @mateydesr