Best Designer Sneakers Slip on for Women

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The Must-Have Trendy Sneakers for 2021

• by Nav Gill
• Last Updated:  Oct 18, 2021

Sneakers are still very much in style for both everyday wear and more formal occasions for women in 2021—it just depends on the pair you choose.

Here, we break down the go-to trainer styles of the season, from classic tennis shoes to platform, slip-on and dress sneakers. Read on to find your perfect fit!

• by Nav Gill
• Last Updated:  Oct 18, 2021

Edited by Jaclyn Bloomfield

Whether it's dressing up your favorite pair of jeans or adding a comfortable twist to a classic suit , sneakers can easily provide comfort and an air of cool to any outfit. Design details like vibrant hues, unique accents, graphic prints, and novel silhouettes are guaranteed to transform everything from everyday street-style looks to sleek tailoring into instant statement ensembles, all without compromising on functionality.

While they've long been reduced to either actual athletic use or seen as a solely casual footwear option, the continued permeance between streetwear and high fashion has seen sneakers cement their rightful place as the ultimate versatile footwear option. Now, you're just as likely to see trainers on the runways and the feet of fashion's street-style elite as you are on the school run or in the gym. What it all comes down to is which sneaker silhouette you choose—and how you style them.

From classic, sporty sneakers like Nike's Air Force 1 , Reebok's Club C 85, and  Converse's Chuck Taylor All Star to one of the runway-approved designer takes on trainers, our edit has something to suit every style.

Keep reading for our editor's pick of the top women's sneakers for 2021 and in related news, why not revisit our guide to the best white sneakers for ladies—and how to keep them clean.

Classic Sneakers

A classic sneaker is the one silhouette that's a must-have in every man, woman and child's closet, whether you consider yourself a casual dresser or not. When it comes to the classics, we look toward heritage sports brands instead of the more trend-led offerings of high-end designers.

Nike's Air Force 1 is a truly timeless pair, although you may want to opt for the Air Force 1 Sage Low for a feminine update on the sneaker. It has a slimmer silhouette than the original, coupled with a slightly elevated platform midsole. Nike fans will be pleased to see, however, that many of the traditional design details, like the leather upper, athletic perforations on the midfoot, and Swoosh emblem on the sidewall, remain.

These trainers, particularly in all-white, are an easy addition to any footwear rotation and work especially well when styled with monochromatic outfits. Other options for a sneaker rotation that will defy both time and trends include adidas Originals' Stan Smiths , Reebok's Club C 85 and Converse's Chuck Taylor All Stars . And for more classic picks you'll get a ton of use from, don't miss our roundup of the best chunky sneakers for women.

Low-Top Sneakers

The low-top sneaker is a closet staple; the ankle-skimming silhouette works especially well with jeans and calf-grazing skirts and dresses. While sports brands have long had a stake in the low-top game, designer labels are increasingly turning toward the silhouette, offering up an array of runway-ready iterations season upon season.

Both Dior and Gucci have put a retro spin on the sneaker, incorporating their nostalgic prints all over the uppers. If a fresher look is more in line with your personal taste, Prada's white leather sneakers have a contrasting pink print on the sidewall, surrounding the brand's trademark triangular logo. Louis Vuitton's LV Escale Stellar Sneaker with its canvas upper andhorizontal navy stripes keeps the nautical influence alive, whether you're wearing them in the summer months or beyond. And for more warm-weather offerings, these are our favorite summer sneakers for women.

High-Top Sneakers

High-top sneakers are the perfect style for executing that effortlessly cool, laid-back look—especially when paired with tonal tailoring. Our everyday go-to is the ever-chic partnership between COMME des GARÇONS PLAY and Converse. The classic black canvas upper has a minimal finish, complemented by the trademark Converse emblem on the interior side and the CdG Play heart logo on the lateral.

For a designer spin on a similar baseball silhouette, Gucci, Prada, and Saint Laurent have all put their luxury stamp of approval on the white canvas shoe, with the latter two opting simply for minimal black branding on their high-top sneakers. Gucci makes more of a statement with its signature red and green stripe matched by green interior lining and binding around the ankle. Want to shop smarter this year? These are the best sustainable sneaker brands for a clear conscience.

Basketball Sneakers

With chunky basketball-inspired silhouettes rising in popularity in the streetwear sphere, it's only natural that designer brands would begin to follow suit. One of the biggest sneaker releases of last year came in the form of the Dior x Air Jordan 1's —decadent, Italian-made shoes that feature a white and grey upper with "Air Dior" punctuated into the iconic Nike Wings logo. They were also anchored by an all-over print in high-quality jacquard that acts as the Swoosh logo of the silhouette. A translucent, icy blue sole with a graphic beneath and a metallic chrome piece rounds out the meticulously-built creation. While these had a highly-limited release earlier this year, they can be found on select resale sites like StockX .

For those that didn't manage to nab a pair, why not turn your attention towards Off-White's 3.0 sneakers in white leather, featuring logo detailing on each sidewall and those signature orange tags. For a look more suited to everyday wear, Nike's iconic Blazer silhouette has seen a real revival recently and although it's available in myriad color options, we're opting for this neutral creamy beige pair—offset with textured details along the toe—to complete our fall outfits.

Air Bubble Sneakers

Nike's Air Max revolutionized footwear with its visible air technology, but that hasn't stopped high-end designers from taking a stab at their own version of this iconic look. Alexander McQueen's cult-loved exaggerated sole sneaker fuses air technology with a transparent midsole that runs the length of the sole for a truly futuristic look.

Prada's Collision 19 LR Sneakers have a similarly sci-fi feel thanks to their all-white upper boasting 3-D rubber elements and the three visible air panels that lie in the midsole. For a tried and tested approach, revert back to Nike's classic Air Max 90 which is available to shop in almost every color combination you could desire—though we're currently drawn to the retro red, white, and blue pair.

Tennis Sneakers

Obviously named after the sport, traditional tennis shoes are comprised of a rubber sole and low-top canvas or leather upper. Sports brands and designer labels alike have built upon the original tennis sneaker silhouette and updated the shoe more for fashion than function on an actual tennis court.

Despite this, the signature, clean look of tennis shoes has mostly remained, even in the more trend-led takes on the shoe. This season, we love the ultra-minimal stylings of CELINE's Triomphe Lace-up Sneakers and Valentino's  Garavani Logo Trainers , both of which have a white leather upper accented by perforations. T here are Golden Goose's pre-distressed sneakers for that luxe, lived-in look—and for footwear approved by a literal tennis pro, check out On's THE ROGER Center Court, co-designed by Roger Federer himself.

Slip-On Sneakers

Arguably one of the most practical and versatile trainer styles, slip-on sneakers are the perfect choice for women who are constantly on the go. This silhouette in particular is one that minimalists will love—both for the streamlined structure and the ease of slipping in and out of them. When it comes to choosing a finish, a tonal colorway is the easiest way to ensure your look stays fresh, whatever the season.

For that reason, our top pick is Jil Sander's ivory sneakers, which have a smooth leather upper contrasted by a ribbed, slightly stacked, platform midsole. To add some color to your closet, opt for Gucci's sturdy canvas sneakers in beige with a logo-printed canvas upper and white sole. And for more casual favorites, these are the best slip-on sneakers for women.

Platform Sneakers

With the '90s influence still playing a major role in runway and street style trends alike, platform sneakers are bag in a big way through 2021 and beyond. We love Gucci's stacked Ace sneaker with its black leather upper and scene-stealing jewel embellishments.

For a year-round winner, they don't come more versatile than Axel Arigato's leather sneakers. These boast a 30mm platform and an upper in varying hues of white, which are the perfect pick for minimalists.

Sustainable Sneakers

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor when it comes to buying apparel and accessories, footwear included. Thankfully, innovations in design and technology have ensured that "sustainable sneakers" aren't necessarily as unfashionable as you may have been led to believe.

Fans of chunky sneakers may be drawn towards Nike's ISPA Overreact Flyknit Sneakers which are constructed from excess yarn saved from landfill and knit patterns repurposed from other footwear designs. For the minimalists among you, you simply can't go wrong with Veja's cult-loved  V-10 sneakers which have a C.W.L canvas upper and a sole made from wild rubber.

Trainers (a.k.a. '70s Running Shoes)

Another era that's seen a resurgence in mainstream fashion is the '70s. Alongside flared pants and bohemian prints, '70s runners are back on trend. When it comes to these retro jogging shoes, you can count on heritage sports brands like New Balance and Nike to nail the look.

The Nike Cortez —which initially launched in its popular red, white and blue iteration in 1972—has seen a genuine revival as of late, led in part by Bella Hadid's nostalgia-tinged campaign for the shoe. For luxurious adaptations of the silhouette, opt for Proenza Schouler's sleek leather trainers embellished with a gold-tone chain or alternatively, get the streetwear-approved look with New Balance's classic 574 sneakers.

Mixed Material Sneakers

An ever-popular sneaker style is the patchwork upper, which is a sneaker that comprises of mixed materials including—but not limited to—leather, suede, velvet and mesh. The combination upper makes for an eye-catching sneaker that can be worn with various outfits. For a tasteful, pared-back approach to this off-kilter trend, we love Chanel's embroidered pink mesh trainers.

Dries Van Noten offers up a slightly darker take on the look, with panels of black and burnt orange complementing snake print sections and the textured gum sole—this shoe is truly perfect for the fall season. Of course, you can always count on Off-White to provide a truly maximalist spin on the look and these Odsy-1000 sneakers incorporate a black and green upper with an exaggerated, jagged sole for a shoe that certainly isn't for wallflowers.

Dress Sneakers

Although sneakers have long been associated with sports and casual wear, they're still a valid footwear option when it comes to more elegant occasions—it just depends on what you choose, and how you style them. Metallic accents, glitter and sequins are the easiest way to elevate the humble sneaker and luckily for us, most designer brands know this all too well.

Take for example Jimmy Choo's athletic-inspired shoes in all-white, with a glittery sidestripe. For a more obviously glitzy approach, opt for Saint Laurent's Court Classic California Sneakers , which boast metallic stars throughout. Alternatively, Valentino's iteration boasts a fully metallic silver leather upper and rubber pyramid stud detailing around the heel—a combination that's sure to stand out. If the occasion calls for a more-is-more look, then we recommend Golden Goose's trademark pre-distressed sneakers, this time covered in almost entirely in silver glitter.

Shop More Options

adidas Originals Superstan​

A hybrid of two of adidas Originals' most iconic silhouettes, theSuperstar andStan Smith, the aptly namedSuperstan is ideal for minimalists. The Stan Smith famously received luxury fashion's seal of approval thanks to Phoebe Philo and the '80s Superstar has has seen renewed popularity in the past year.

This white and green iteration is sleek and sporty, boasting Three Stripe perforations on the lateral side, green logo detailing on the heel and tongue and a rubber shell-toe design. Pair these with a slouchy, oversized suit for a stylish, business-casual look.

adidas Originals

Superstan​

$80.00

Maison Margiela Vintage Graffiti Sneakers

In an exclusive partnership with e-tailer Mytheresa, Maison Margiela has debuted its Vintage Graffiti sneaker. A new take on the beloved Replica silhouette, this iteration boasts leather and suede panels with all-over scribble detailing, much like the name would suggest.

Further details include a chalk paint finish on the sole and subtle distressing throughout. These unique designer trainers are ideal for those who want to inject a little more personality into their footwear.

Maison Margiela

Vintage Graffiti Sneakers

$572.00

COMME des GARÇONS PLAY x Converse Chuck 70s

A seasonal update on the ever-chic partnership between COMME des GARÇONS PLAY and Converse, the newest Chuck 70s have dropped in three new colorways. Available in "Bright Blue," "Bright Green," and "Bright Pink," the classic canvas upper has a vibrant finish, complemented by the trademark Converse emblem on the interior side and the CdG Play heart logo on the lateral.

These work perfectly with both casual denim looks or to add a laid-back element – and some color – to a more elevated look.

COMME des GARÇONS PLAY x Converse

Chuck 70s

$150.00

Axel Arigato

For those who can't pull themselves away from the minimalist aesthetic, Axel Arigato'sClean 90, is the go-to option. The Swedish brand's classic sneaker has a luxe, smooth leather upper in white, with a blush pink suede panel landing upon the heel.

Gold-tone Arigato branding on the sidewall adds some identity to this pared-back sneaker and the slight platform midsole with subtle jagged detailing adds even more Scandi-cool appeal to the look.

Axel Arigato

Clean 90

$192.00

Converse Run Star Hike

Converse's versatile Chuck Taylor All Stars has a unique appeal that transcends age and personal style – its a universally cool sneaker that's retained its appeal over the decades. Those who like a more statement approach when it comes to footwear, however, may be more drawn to the VLTG Run Star Hike High Top.

The trademark canvas upper remains, but the sneaker gets a fashion-forward update thanks to its exaggerated platform midsole and serrated detailing on the outsole. This "University Red" iteration, complete with a white midsole and gum and "Peony Pink" outsole is sure to get you noticed.

Converse

Run Star Hike

$137.00

Nike Air Force 1 Sage Low

A feminine update on the classic Air Force 1, theSage Low has a slimmer silhouette than the original, coupled with a slightly elevated platform midsole. Nike fans will be pleased to thee, however, that many of the traditional design details, like the leather upper, athletic perforations on the mid foot and Swoosh emblem on the sidewall remain.

These trainers, particularly in all-white, are an easy addition to any footwear rotation and work especially well when styled with monochromatic outfits.

Nike

Air Force 1 Sage Low

$100.00

Saint Laurent Zebra Low Top Sneakers

Take on the animal-print trend with Saint Laurent's Zebra Low Top Sneakers. The monochromatic sneaker has a calf-hair upper, dyed with a zebra print, with subtle Saint Laurent text hidden on the sidewall.

The white tab on the heel and on the lace panel helps to break up the look, as does the slightly raised midsole. These luxe sneakers are ideal for elevating even the most casual of outfits.

Saint Laurent

Zebra Low Top Sneakers

$595.00

1017 ALYX 9SM Two-Tone Low Top Sneakers

Matthew Williams' 1017 ALYX 9SM proves that the chunky dad sneaker trend is here to stay. The neutral upper, seen in panels of smooth leather and beige, is given some additional edginess thanks to the bulky Vibram sole.

Comfortable enough for all-day wear, you can pair these oversized kicks with slim-fit or tailored pieces for a well-balanced look.

1017 ALYX 9SM

Two-Tone Low Top Sneakers

$449.00

Gucci Ultrapace

With its recent releases, Gucci has begun to create a theme of tributes to previous designers by pulling from its archive. From Gucci's leatherScreener Sneakerto its Fall '19Ultrapace Snake-Effect Leather, Mesh, and Distressed Suede Sneakers, the label is bringing back its street style must-haves.

TheUltrapace iteration features different variations of the Gucci logo, finished with pink trims that accent the snake-effect leather upper for a statement look. A distressed-effect on the shoelaces mixed with suede completes a worn quality, making this the perfect shoe to dress down any classic look. With hints of neon pink and yellow, these sneakers will also give your staple looks a subtle modern update as they add a sleek vibrant edge.

Gucci Ultrapace

Ultrapace Sneakers

$790.00

Balenciaga Triple-S Mesh Trainer

One of the all-time most iconic Balenciaga tennis shoes are their cult-favorite whiteTriple S Mesh Trainer iteration. These trainers are reimagined for the current season with a translucent rubber midsole, reminiscent of classic running trainers. Panelled from mesh and off-white leather, these Balenciaga tennis shoes feature a thick rope-style laces and an embroidered logo on the lateral side.

Take a cue from street style mavens and celebrities alike like Hailey Bieber, and style these with your favorite pair of downtime denim, a graphic tee and a chic jacket to master the ultimate street style look. Or, juxtapose these sneakers with a diaphanous dress and blazer.

Balenciaga

Triple-S Mesh Trainer

$995.00

Nike Daybreak Trainers

These white leatherDaybreakTrainers from Nike are anchored by a traditional round toe silhouette, a lace-up front fastening, a logo patch at the tongue, a padded ankle, a branded heel counter, and a ridged rubber sole. Simple and timeless, these shoes truly go with absolutely everything and can be styled a number of ways.

Paired with white bottoms and a cozy, neutral-tone knit top for an effortless, all-white ensemble or styled with trousers and a blazer for an au courant approach to traditional workwear, these are definitely ones to add to your daily edit.

Nike

Daybreak Trainers

$110.00

Celine Blank Sneakers

Indisputable luxury French brand CELINE continues to offer incredibly stylish and chic streetwear shoes like theseBlank Sneakers. The text print on the sole and panel literally and figuratively culls inspiration from the brand's name on the back, and make it an authentic piece that is essential to every arsenal.

TheBlank Sneaker is anchored by a silhouette and shape that reflects the CELINE Academy Line. It is inspired by the old trainers worn by Eastern European soldiers that innately embody the sophisticated, minimalist style and design specific to military accessories. Wear these with downtime denim and a casual tee, or with trousers and knit top for a look that is office chic.

Celine

Blank Sneakers

$520.00

Dior x Air Jordan 1

Nike and Dior come together to create one of the best new sneakers of the season. TheseDior x Air Jordan 1's are decadent, Italian-made shoes that feature a white and grey upper with "Air Dior" punctuated into the iconic Nike Wings logo. They are also anchored by an all-over print in a high-quality jacquard that acts as the Swoosh logo of the silhouette. A translucent, icy blue sole with a graphic beneath, and a metallic chrome piece rounds out the meticulously-built creation, thereby making it a top contender this season.

A truly limited-edition release, these coveted kicks are likely to be limited to just 8500 pairs worldwide, according toHYPEBEAST. Now,WWD has confirmed that Dior plans to unveil a dedicated microsite for this exclusive drop. Consumers will be asked to register their interest, as well as indicate their preferred silhouette (high or low top), size and location.

A select number of Air Jordan 1 OG Dior sneakers will be allocated to Dior boutiques worldwide and consumers who register on the aforementioned microsite will be invited to visit their preferred store to purchase the shoes and although there is no obligation to buy them at the time, these coveted kicks are sure to sell out incredibly fast. The sneakers are slated for a July 8 release—register your interest here.

Dior x Air Jordan 1

Sneakers

price upon request

Archlight Sneaker

The LVArchlight Sneaker is revisited for the winter season with flashes of vibrant, pop color. This avant-garde design is one of the Maison's most novel ones to date, which only adds to its already recognizable oversized turbo outsole.

This iteration remarkably combines leather with technical fabrics, and is signed with a back loop in Monogram canvas and the LV Circle logo on the tongue and outsole. We pair downtime denim with these best new sneakers for an insouciant look perfect to carry you through from noon to night.

Louis Vuitton

Archlight Sneaker

$1,230.00

Continental 80 Grosgrain-Trimmed Suede Sneakers

A revamped iteration of one of Adidas Originals' '80s tennis shoes, theseContinental 80 Grosgrain-Trimmed Suede Sneakers are some of the best new sneakers to add to your footwear arsenal this season. This stylish pair is updated in off-white suede with tonal grosgrain trims and is set on cushioned rubber soles.

Rendered in hues that instantly tap into theneutral tones our editors are loving, these go with just about anything. Our editors love them with dark-wash jeans and a cozy knit.

Adidas

Continental 80 Grosgrain-Trimmed Suede Sneakers

$80.00

Off-White x Nike Waffle Racer

Off-White and Nike are back once more with the release of an updated version of their celebratedWaffle Racersneakers. Much like the silhouette's recent sacai iterations, this pair is unique and novel with its once simplistic tooling almost unrecognizable this time around. These best new sneakers feature uppers that sport a similarly netted film across their entire construction, and simulate that of an athlete's tape across three vastly different colorways.

Our favorite is a much more neutral pair that forgoes any overt neons hues, and champions a base of white nylon overlaid by cheeky notes of off white paneling.

Off-White x Nike

Waffle Racer

$159.00

Yeezy Boost 700

Kanye West's footwear brand, Yeezy, is slated to release these Carbon BlueYeezy Boots 700 Sneakers. These are composed of a contrived and tasteful combination of accents and hues from a trio of previousYeezy Boost 700 releases and iterations, all contrasted with new blue details.

The classic Wave Runner lends its grey mesh midfoot panel and supple leather overlays, a myriad of shades of blue and grey cull inspiration from the Teal Blue sneakers. Finally, the plush midsole comes from its grey base tone and its orange hues originated from the Inertia.

Yeezy

Boost 700 'Inertia'

$380.00

Nike Deconstructed Air Force 1 '07 LXX

Attuned to the deconstructed trend, Nike released the Air Force 1 in a classic silhouette in Sail, Mystic Green and Light Blue. The footwear option is characterized by an inverted upper with overlaid swooshes, resulting in an almost broken effect of the classic Nike logo. With one shoe showcasing an emerald green hue, and the other a clear ocean-blue, the distressed ballpark-sneaker look is completed by a traditional gum outsole.

A modern take on the legendary style, this design couples classic cuts with details as crisp and fresh as the brisk fall air. Pair these shoes with any outfit for a nostalgic touch on this year's comeback trend, or make them the statement of your next game-day outfit.

Nike

Deconstructed Air Force 1 '07 LXX

$175.00

Louis Vuitton Archlight Sneaker

A favorite of Nicolas Ghesquiere's Fall/Winter 2019 collection, Louis Vuitton'sArchlight Sneaker features a monogram LV Pop print which was a signature of the collection's runway debut. The perfect accessory following the trend of chunky sneakers, the shoe is crafted in nylon and individualized by its turbo outsole, oversized tongue, and deep cut around the ankles that adds the perfect touch of femininity to a classic street look.

Create a bold statement look by pairing these shoes with a plain black outfit to emphasize their artistic print and innovative silhouette. You could also inject some personality to your work wear wardrobe by wearing these sneakers alongside classic staples, giving your everyday look an athletic edge.

Louis Vuitton

Archlight Sneaker

$1,140.00

Nike Classic Cortez

A more subtly-colored iteration of Nike's recently launched pastel yellow Cortez, theClassic Cortez Leather Sneaker is now released in the same silhouette, but comes in a color palette perfectly suited for fall. Unlike its summertime counterpart, the Classic Cortez variation is crafted in premium white leather with a "Coral Stardust" swoosh and "Chrome Yellow" stripe adding impactful pops of color.

The navy blue inner lining and deep red tongue incorporate a seasonal taste to the elegantly shaped shoe. To create the perfect casual fall look this season, inject some color to your wardrobe staples; pairing these shoes with a staple denim look will bring the trend of brightly-accented sneakers to your outfit without the need for a chunky shoe.

Nike

Cortez 'Coral Stardust'

$70.00

About the Author

Nav Gill is a Senior Editor at Editorialist covering fashion, features and news. A Fashion Communication graduate, she was previously an Editor at HYPEBAE and has a strong interest in luxury fashion, emerging brands, streetwear and footwear. When she's not on the road covering European fashion weeks, you'll find her scouring the Internet for the latest sneaker drops.

Best Designer Sneakers Slip on for Women

Source: https://editorialist.com/style/best-new-sneakers-for-women/

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