We talk about sneakers a lot—from dissecting the biggest trends to breaking down the just-launched styles that are worth the hype. Whether you’re a sneakerhead or a more casual sneaker shopper, there are some standout things to have on your radar that fall under the sartorial umbrella. From the proliferation of cult collaborations by the likes of Aimé Leon Dore and retro silhouettes to the resurgence of Adidas Sambas, and more, there is always something to report on in the sneaker world . Unlike many other areas in fashion, sneakers have a unique propensity to go viral and sell out almost immediately the moment they are dropped, and there are a handful that fashion people have thrust into the spotlight that are practically impossible to track down.
This lands us on topic of the best sneakers for women in 2023. After carefully considering the what is transpiring on the street style, the most talked-about celebrity looks, and major retail trends, we've named this year’s top sneakers to invest in. Ahead, see which 5 sneaker styles made the cut and each shop them.
Nostalgic, heritage pieces will always find a way to permeate the fashion bubble, and next up are Onitsuka Tiger's 66 sneakers. Named for their retro, '60s-inspired design that originally debuted in 1966 at the Olympic pre-trials in Mexico, they're now been reintroduced with modern details that make them as comfortable as they are striking. No, you don't have to be an Olympic-level athlete to wear them. Styling the sneakers is all about keeping it easy and effortless, so wear them with minimal pieces or jeans to let them make a statement on their own.
The sneaker brand every celebrity has been snapped wearing in 2023? Salomon. Fans include Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, and Dua Lipa, among a long list of others. The outdoor, hiking-focused shoes have an inherent sportiness that makes them a go-to shoe for the gym, but they are a mainstay for aesthetics that go beyond their practicality. One of the top-selling shoes that is practically always sold out, I would recommend ordering a pair if you can find them in your size.
The power of the Aimé Leon Dore in the sneaker space is practically unmatched. There is something about creative director Teddy Santis's eye for design that resonates with the fashion community in a major way. The sneakers taking over in 2023? The Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 860v2 silhouette that reimagines the original style in fresh colorways that pair silver metallic details with colors including cobalt blue, fire engine red, and hunger green. It's impossible to go wrong wearing these.
It's impossible to discuss the sneakers taking over without including Adidas Gazelles. The striped style rose to viral status last year, but has continued its momentum in a major way—though they are now slightly easier to get your hands on. You can't go wrong with the classic white or black versions, but we're seeing more and more fashion people wearing unique colorways finished in unexpected shades. To nail this styling, stick with denim or streamlined pieces.
If any singular sneaker style has dominated fashion in the last several years, it would be New Balance's 550. Its rapid rise among the fashion set in 2021 led to long wait lists and lotteries for insiders trying to get them into their closets. Into 2023, the sneakers are not showing signs of declining anytime soon and have showed their staying power. Luckily, some of the colorways are finally available, but it's still wise to grab a pair while you can.
Next up: Who What Wear Editors Told Me Their Top Fashion Finds This Month
from Who What Wear
