Bringing sexy back: Why are ‘skinny’ sneakers trending again?

I wouldn’t say I’m a total sneakhead, but growing up with a shoe-collecting father has taught me a few things about shoes and how most trends nowadays are resurrected. Still, I never thought I’d see the day when my favorite bulky sneakers would be taking a backseat.

Yep, “skinny” sneakers aren’t just back; they’re everywhere, at least on my FYP.

From runways to TikTok ‘It Girl’ fits, there’s been a shift in what’s been trending in the shoe department. Gone are the ultra-chunky soles and exaggerated silhouettes. In their place are streamlined, low-profile kicks that give off Y2K energy. 

Skinny sneakers are the type of shoes that hug your feet and catch your attention without making too loud of a statement, like the Adidas Sambas, Onitsuka Tigers, and Nike Cortez. Just think of the photos of Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Anne Curtis, and other It Girls.

So, why is it trending again? Maybe it’s just the natural swing of fashion. We oversized everything in the 2020s, so it makes sense that we’re looking for more structure now. It could also be nostalgia. After all, the Y2K trend is also bringing back low-rise pants, hair tinsel, and now, the slimmer sneaker.

Although I’m not necessarily the poster child of underconsumption (like father, like daughter), I do believe that sneakers still need to last you at least three years before you get a new pair. But I can’t deny that beyond the trend cycle, something is refreshing about going back to the basics that come with the skinny sneakers.

If you’re ready to jump on the trend, here are some skinny sneakers you can get online:

Entry-level faves

adidas Lifestyle Handball Spezial Shoes Unisex White P3,900

Vans Authentic Lowpro Suede Black/White For Womens – P3,998

Converse Chuck 70 OX Unisex Sneakers – Black – P3,800

Mid-level picks:

adidas Lifestyle Samba OG Shoes Unisex Black – P6,800

The PUMA Palermo Supertifo Men’s Sneakers – P6,100

Speedcat OG Sneakers Unisex – P7,100

“Treat ‘yoself” brands:

Common Projects Blush Pink Nubuck Leather Achilles Low Top Sneakes – P22,000

Golden Goose Grey/White Leather and Suede Ballstar Lace Up Sneakers – P30,000

– Rappler.com

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