White sneakers are officially cancelled… Okay, not really, but this spring we are making space for more interesting shoe styles. This season, shoemakers and savvy shoppers alike are prioritizing sneakers that would make your average passerby stop and stare. New lines center on the whimsical and unexpected, featuring high-impact design elements, such as Mary Jane straps, luxe suede, and glossy patent faux leather.
Alongside these vibey styles, several sneaker trends from the archives — like gorpcore, chaotic color blocking, and toe shoes — have, once again, taken their rightful place in the spotlight. “Nostalgic trends continue to grow,” Dana Cohn, Macy’s director of editorial content, tells Refinery29. “Slim, retro styles have been trending. There’s been a lot of elevated materials, like suede, in a variety of colors.”
Though they certainly make an impression, these sneaker trends are surprisingly wearable (I can confirm, because I’ve already begun adding them to my closet). Keep reading for the most interesting spring sneakers to slip into.