A sneaker from Loewe, Chanel, or The Row is usually an investment, but the best designer sneakers are typically worth it when you break down the cost per wear. Each pair is crafted from quality materials that last for years and has a timeless, easy-to-style design that you'll wear repeatedly. The only issue is that there are more trendy pairs of designer sneakers than ever.
While chunky silhouettes and bright colorways often defined the biggest shoe trends in designer sneakers of the past, the tidal wave of low-key, cool collaborations between designers like Wales Bonner and Adidas, Bode with Nike, and ASICS's forthcoming collaboration with Cecilie Bahnsen prove there's much more variety in current sneaker trends. In many ways, designer sneakers have become even more wearable over the last few seasons than ever, in step with the rise of quiet-luxury-inspired dressing. You can easily find a pair of luxe-feeling work sneakers that can be styled with a suit and won't distract everyone in the boardroom.
"Designer brands continue to collaborate with sneaker brands—both established and on the rise—to revamp popular silhouettes from running to retro," says Rachel Makar, the Senior Director of Merchandising at designer resale site StockX, explaining how the ubiquitous collaboration trend has evolved ever more so in 2024. The result is wearable black sneakers and cool white iterations that have been revamped with designer touches and have captured the attention of It-girls like Gigi Hadid and Kaia Gerber, who wear them constantly.
Another reason for the rise in wearable designer kicks is that the designer market is so much more diverse than it's been previously. Not all top pairs have the typical designer price tag anymore. Under-the-radar brands like Autry and PONY (a Katie Holmes favorite) have proven that there is room in the luxury sneaker category for shoppers looking to spend less than $500.
Ahead, I've rounded up the best designer sneakers on the market. My finds include Oprah's favorite Chloé Nama Sneakers and a pair from Tory Burch that a Marie Claire editor has tried and tested. Ahead are some of the best designer sneakers money can buy, and they don't all cost half your rent check.
- Shop Marie Claire's Favorite Designer Sneakers
- How to Style The Best Designer Sneakers
- Meet The Experts
Marie Claire's Favorite Designer Sneakers
- Best Overall Designer Sneakers: Tory Burch Howell Court Sneakers
- Best Designer Work Sneakers: Prada Downtown Leather Sneakers
- Best Festive Designer Sneakers: Golden Goose Ball Star Low Top Sneaker
- Best Comfortable Designer Sneakers: Isabel Marant Beth Sneakers
- Best Colorful Designer Sneakers: Gucci Embroidered Ace Sneakers
- Best Chunky Designer Sneakers: Alexander McQueen Oversized Metallic Leather Platform Sneakers
Shop The Best Designer Sneakers
Marie Claire's Senior Beauty & Fashion News Editor Halie LeSavage dubbed these white Tory Burch sneakers her best work sneakers ever. "They're well-designed but still fly a little under the radar with their minimal, unbranded look," she says. "Whether I want to wear an oversized suit or an office-appropriate midi dress, the clean white leather goes with it all." Available in this bright white shade and in sizes 4 through 13 (including half sizes!), they're a perfect do-it-all white sneaker.
What We Love: It comes in half sizes, has a versatile design, runs true-to-size, and is comfortable after several hours, according to reviews. It is also editor-approved.
What We Don't: Some reviewers said the fabric can be stiff.
Number of Colors: One
The patent leather finish on this pair of Prada sneakers gives them a slightly more formal look than other sneakers made from canvas or leather. They have a removable insole for added comfort and come in US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes, so you should have no issue finding your perfect fit. With a sleek, all-white design, they're just low-key enough to wear on your daily commute and keep them on all day while at your desk.
What We Love: It comes in two colors, has a versatile design, is available in half sizes, and has a removable insole.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say they run a little large.
Number of Colors: Two
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes
I couldn't have a designer sneaker roundup without a pair of silver sparkly—yet wearable—Golden Goose sneakers. These intentionally worn-in white picks have a leather footbed that molds to your feet for optimal comfort. They're currently available in sizes ranging from an EU 35 through an EU 42—roughly US women’s sizes 5 through 12 without half sizes. The brand recommends sizing up if you’re in between sizes.
What We Love: It runs true to size, is editor-approved, and has a leather footbed that molds to your foot.
What We Don't: Don't come in half sizes.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 12
These Isabel Marant Beth Sneakers are the perfect wear-everywhere pair of designer sneakers because reviewers say they're so comfortable. They fasten with three easy-on, easy-off velcro straps and are made from a super soft white leather upper with a cushioned rubber sole. Reviewers say they do tend to run a tad small and recommend going for one whole size up, so keep that in mind when shopping, especially considering that they aren’t available in half sizes.
What We Love: Runs true-to-size; has arch support; versatile design; comfortable according to reviews; comes in more than one color;
What We Don't: Some shoppers felt they were too narrow; doesn't come in half sizes.
Number of Colors: Two
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11
If you’ve been a longtime Gucci shopper and haven’t invested in a pair of designer sneakers from the brand, what are you waiting for? This colorful pick is undoubtedly made for the label's most dedicated fans, from the iconic red-and-green combo to the sweet gold-embroidered bees on the sides. The brand notes that they run large and that going one size down may be the best option. Wear them with an otherwise classic outfit for an exaggerated pop of color.
What We Love: It comes in half sizes, is comfortable according to reviews, and is not too narrow or wide.
What We Don't: Some shoppers said they run large.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US sizes 6.5 through 14, including most half sizes
These sneakers from Alexander McQueen were first released in 2016 and have been a mainstay in the designer sneaker world ever since. They're outfitted with holographic detailing—a sublet detail that makes them a fun fall accessory. Some reviewers note they run small but are available in half sizes, making finding your perfect fit a dream.
What We Love: It comes in half sizes, has a removable insole, is comfortable according to reviews, and is easy to style.
What We Don't: Some reviewers said they run small.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11.5, including half sizes
Other Designer Sneakers We Love
Autry isn't the designer brand on everyone's lips (yet), but that's the point: these trendy color-blocked kicks are under the radar in the best way. They're made from white leather and suede and feature a comfortable rubber sole. The result is a versatile, easy-to-style sneaker that will put you ahead of the curve.
What We Love: It has a removable insole, arch support, versatility, and is easy to style.
What We Don't: It doesn't come in half sizes; it has a break-in period.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 12
Marie Claire's Beauty Editor, Samantha Holender, has loved these Chloé sneakers for a long time. “I've had them for a good three years, and while they took a hot minute to break in, they have now become my most comfortable shoe,” she says. “The sweet scallop detailing gives the sneaker a feminine touch and sets them apart from the wide sea of white sneakers on the market.”
What We Love: Editor-approved, versatile, easy to style, and comfortable after a break-in period, according to reviews.
What We Don't: It doesn't come in half sizes; there is a break-in period.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 12
These best-selling tan-and-black sneakers from Loewe continue to be popular amongst fashion insiders for 2024. They come in a wearable color other than white, making them easier to style in the fall and winter weather. They are made from a buttery suede material that looks super luxe. Brown is also one of the most popular color trends for fall 2024, so I'm forecasting these to remain popular throughout the rest of the year.
What We Love: Come in a trendy shade; comfortable; comes in several colors.
What We Don't: The brand says they run small.
Number of Colors: Four
Size Range: US Sizes 5 through 11
The red trend has yet to slow down this year; a case in point is this pair of Rag & Bone sneakers in the hue. Red sneakers were so popular on the street at New York Fashion Week this season that they're sure to stay relevant throughout the late fall and winter. They make any outfit look more fashion-forward, down to your leggings-and-sneakers combinations. You can easily match them to a red bag for a complete outfit that looks coordinated but takes minimal effort. The brand says they run true-to-size, and they come in half sizes.
What We Love: It comes in a trendy color, several colors, and half sizes, is comfortable, and runs true to size.
What We Don't: Suede can be hard to clean.
Number of Colors: Seven
Size Range: US Sizes 5 through 11, including most half sizes
These sustainable Chloé Nama Sneakers have been everywhere since they first debuted in 2021, but they got a recent boost thanks to a co-sign from Oprah. The icon wore the Nama sneakers in mid-September. They come in at least ten colors and are sustainably made with recycled and sustainably sourced materials. In fact, 40 percent of the shoe is comprised of recycled materials.
What We Love: Sustainably-made; celebrity-approved; comes in several colors; Has arch support; comfortable.
What We Don't: It doesn't come in half sizes.
Number of Colors: 10
Size Range: US Sizes 5 through 12
Black sneakers are among the most versatile types to keep in your rotation. They can easily work in more formal situations—they're the perfect work sneaker—but they can easily replace your ballet flats or loafers once the weather cools. The white version of these Common Projects kicks is super popular, but the black is timeless.
What We Love: Comes in two colors: versatile and easy to style.
What We Don't: It doesn't come in half sizes.
Number of Colors: Two
Size Range: US Sizes 5 through 12
Yes, there are designer sneakers that you can wear to your next workout. Options like this pair from Zendaya-approved sneaker brand ON and brand-of-the-moment Loewe combine form and function. They come in a few colors, but my favorite is this sunny yellow-and-white shade. Despite their fashion-forward touch, they're still outfitted with all the details that have made ON a go-to brand for runners and sporty shoppers, like a cushioned sole and supportive stretch through the upper. Makar says these collaborations are successful because the fashion houses "imbue the popular running silhouette with the style of these designers."
What We Love: It comes in several colors and is comfortable, supportive, and suitable for wearing for long distances.
What We Don't: It doesn't come in half sizes; it runs small.
Number of Colors: Seven
Size Range: EU Sizes 36 through 42
Katie Holmes loves these chunky sneakers from Pony, so they're one to keep your eye on right now. Retailing for just $120, they're one of the most accessible pairs of designer kicks on this list, and they come in a range of colors, including this white-and-green combination, a red-and-white pair, and Holmes's orange-and-blue version. Colorblocked sneakers have been a major sneaker trend this year so far, too. They technically run in men's shoe sizes, but that doesn't mean that you won't be able to find your perfect fit.
What We Love: Celebrity-approved; comes in half sizes; comes in several colors; has a cushioned footbed.
What We Don't: Sizing requires a conversion.
Number of Colors: Seven
Size Range: US Sizes 6.5 through 13.5, including half sizes
Considering brown sneakers are everywhere right now, this pair of sleek kicks from fashion's favorite brand, The Row, is the perfect way to tap into the shoe trend. Like much of The Row's selection, they touch on the quiet luxury look while feeling chic and timeless. The darker hue is also a worthwhile update to your monochromatic outfits, especially if you wear black from head to toe. You can also shop them in half sizes and other colors, including black and off-white.
What We Love: According to reviews, it comes in half sizes and several colors, runs true to size, and is comfortable.
What We Don't: Doesn't offer as much support as others on this list.
Number of Colors: Three
Size Range: EU Sizes 35 through 41.5, including most half-sizes
On the opposite end of the quiet luxury spectrum sit these neon yellow Wales Bonner x Adidas sneakers. They're a sportier iteration than Bonner's previous collaboration with the sportswear giant, but they've been no easier to find in stock in a full range of sizes. However, they're surprisingly easy to style if you can find them. I love how they look when worn with a neutral outfit—think a great white T-shirt and a pair of jeans—but they also work when teamed with brighter layered outfits.
What We Love: It comes in half sizes, has padding along the inside, and runs true-to-size.
What We Don't: It can be hard to find in stock.
Number of Colors: One
Size Range: US Sizes 5 through 12, including most half sizes
Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski love the It-brand Jacquemus, so it's no surprise that the brand has teamed up with Nike. The collab has been buzzing online for a while, and it's finally available to shop in white and red. The retro silhouette effortlessly combines modern elements like the enlarged logo tag on the side to create a '90s-inspired sneaker you can wear almost everywhere.
What We Love: Comes in two colors; Comes in half sizes; runs true-to-size.
What We Don't: It can be hard to find in stock in a full range of sizes.
Number of Colors: Two
Size Range: US Sizes 6 through 11, including most half sizes
How to Style Designer Sneakers
To master styling designer sneakers, look toward A-listers like Kaia Gerber and Gigi Hadid. Gerber often relies on her black Nike x Wales Bonner Astro Grabber trainers, while Hadid prefers her Adidas x Wales Bonner kicks (in several colorways, I might add). Despite their different shoe choices, Gerber and Hadid seem to follow the same style playbook—they allow the color of their shoes to set the sartorial tone for their outfits.
Hadid and Gerber prove how versatile their favorite neutral designer sneakers can be in New York City.
Gerber was recently spotted in a navy and black look that perfectly matched her Nike sneakers. Not too long ago, Hadid wore a white skirt and black sunglasses that complimented her Adidas shoes. During another casual outing, Hadid flaunted a maroon pair of Adidas, which she teamed with a coordinating deep red leather jacket.
Meet The Experts
Rachel Makar is the Senior Director of Merchandising at StockX, where she oversees category growth and expansion. She has over 15 years of experience in buying and merchandising, with an extensive background in both luxury and streetwear, encompassing footwear, apparel, and accessories. Rachel also has a personal passion for street culture and luxury fashion and has been collecting sneakers and handbags for over 20 years.
