The prevailing fashion trend for 2025 revolves around sophistication and innovation. We’re stepping into the spotlight, embracing the gaze of others as we stride by storefronts. We’re dressing up for every event, from the local market to the front row of a fashion show. Yet, there’s one thing we’re steadfastly refusing to do: compromise our style and creativity for comfort and dependability. Our attire is as comfortable as it is stylish, and the secret lies in our footwear.
Flats, tall boots, and loafers are all wonderful choices, but nothing can match the style and ease that the perfect sneaker offers. No longer confined to the gym, sneakers are now integral to a wide range of chic ensembles. Fashion experts and trend predictors agree that sneakers will be ubiquitous this autumn—here are the must-have styles.
Maggie Klimuszko, fashion trend analyst
Summer Puricelli, wardrobe stylist and personal shopper
Regan Heinrichs, fashion consultant, stylist, and founder of The Wardrobe Edit
It’s well-known that Salomon sneakers have surged in popularity over the past few months, and they’re poised to remain a staple for the upcoming fall season. Adored by celebrities such as Emily Ratajkowski and Timothée Chalamet, Salomons embody what Maggie Klimuszko calls the “tightly buttoned hiker” aesthetic. We’re wearing sneakers designed for rugged terrain, but Klimuszko suggests we’re “stepping outside of the hiking realm and incorporating them with more stylish elements.” Pair them with relaxed gym socks and a pleated skirt, or with your favorite cargo pants.
If the hiker vibe seems too rugged, fear not—the ballet flat-sneaker fusion is also trending this fall and is distinctly feminine. True to its name, this style offers the comfort and support of a sneaker with the look of a ballet flat. Styles like The Attico “Floor 01” and the PUMA Speedcat Ballet showcase laces instead of tongues and have minimalist soles. However, Klimuszko predicts this style will be “extremely popular but fade quickly.” We suggest opting for more budget-friendly options when shopping.
Now that we all own at least one item with a leopard print, why not add another to our wardrobe? Whether it’s leopard, zebra, snake, or cow, whichever animal pattern you prefer, they’re all perfect for fall sneakers. “The plain white sneaker is passé, and people are gravitating towards something more distinctive,” notes Summer Puricelli, stylist and personal shopper. “Python and snakeskin patterns have been particularly popular.” Dries Van Noten, one of Puricelli’s favorite sneaker brands, is seeing a rush on their red python skin sneakers.
When envisioning fall colors, we typically think of browns, maroons, oranges, or deep purples—definitely not neon hues. Yet, this year, that’s not the case. “There’s been a surge of neon shades and bright pops on the runway,” Klimuszko observes. “That single neon highlighter hue is also expected to be a hit with sneakers.” Matching almost nothing in your closet, it could be a fun experiment to introduce a neon green or blue sneaker as a splash of color. Klimuszko recommends exploring Nike’s offerings.
“The sneaker style of the season is understated,” asserts Regan Heinrichs, fashion consultant, stylist, and founder of The Wardrobe Edit. “A design with a barely there sole and super low to the ground.” Think of classic soccer cleats or bowling shoes, or what many brands are calling the sprinters.
Similar to the ballet flat-sneaker hybrid, sprinters are sleek, slim, and snug. They’re the ideal silhouette to match with office trousers or a flowing skirt for a market visit. To find a pair, you can’t go wrong with trendsetters like Maison Margiela or Loewe. “But you can also visit stores like H&M and Zara,” Heinrichs advises. “They’re always at the forefront of current trends.”
This final sneaker trend may not appeal to our gold jewelry enthusiasts, but it’s sure to be a hit with those who love neutral tones. We’re talking about silver metallic sneakers. It seems silver is making a comeback in fashion across the board—jewelry, bags, and now footwear—and it’s a great way to introduce a touch of difference without adding color. The OGs of this trend are the Onitsuka Tiger, but Adidas and Gola also offer enchanting metallic options.
