We’re close to halfway through the year, and the sneaker trends of 2023 have been nothing shy of intriguing. While some of the colors we're seeing are similar to those of the trendiest sneakers of 2022, this year is all about honing in on the specific pairs of sneakers that will elevate any look—ones that come in enough colors to satisfy any sneakerhead.
I turned to Charlotte Browning, a sneakers strategist at trend forecasting platform WSGN, and Kendall Becker, the fashion and beauty trends editor at Trendalytics, to make my search a little easier. Turns out, five major sneaker trends and colors have emerged over the past few months.
- It Girl-approved sneakers are those shoes that seem to pop up in every street style photo, regardless of the season.
- Slender, close-to-the-foot-styles like the Adidas Samba have remained popular.
- Ultra-sporty, technical styles that would look equally good on the hiking trail as they would on the streets of New York or Los Angeles are everywhere this season, especially in more playful or unexpected colorways.
- Wear-everywhere sneakers that come in clean colorways like cream, white, and green are taking center stage as we move away from in-your-face chunky sneakers.
- Orange has cemented itself as one of summer 2023’s trending colors, and now it’s coming for your sneaker collection.
It-Girl Approved Sneakers
"It-girl approved" sneakers lean minimalistic in terms of silhouette and color palette, but that certainly doesn't have to mean all-white," says Becker. She notes that some designer sneaker options, like the Chloe Nama sneaker, are outfitted with elevated details like a textured surface in different color combinations to suit your style.
"Creamy shades, in addition to unlikely color combos, are the key if you're looking to make a statement," Becker explains. Plus, the sneaker has gotten the Midas touch recently thanks to collaborations with brands like Stussy and Aime Leon Dore.
Case in point: If you're looking to emulate the same It-girl style in 2023, look for pale or white sneakers with slight tweaks in their design—subtle color-blocking, an array of textures, or a modern silhouette.
These are the official cool-girl sneakers that you can actually find in stock. After selling out over and over again last summer, these black and white versions of New Balance's 550 Sneakers are here to stay. When it comes to styling them, I prefer to lean into the unisex energy—try them with baggy cargo pants, oversized T-shirts, or with a leather jacket!
These best-selling sneakers from Chloé are worth the investment. Available in 10 colorways, they're bound to match the rest of your closet. Plus, the colorway makes styling them surprisingly easy. This navy and cream colorway is great for the office, so team them with a pair of khaki or cream-colored trousers and a T-shirt, or throw on a blazer if your office is more professional.
Customer Review: "Fits true size, very comfortable. Love the look of my new Chloe tennis shoes!" — Nordstrom
The cool dad sneakers to end all cool dad sneakers, the New Balance 99ov6s are here to stay—apologies to everyone who loved them before they became Hollywood's favorite comfy sneaker. The gray color makes for easy styling to boot. Just swap out your white sneakers for this gray option. Pair them with your favorite light-wash straight-leg jeans and a white baby tee for the ultimate Hailey Bieber outfit. Your feet will thank you.
I own (and swear by!) these Nike Blazer Mid '77 High Top Sneakers. They are, simply put, one of the most versatile sneakers that I own. I was inspired to buy them after seeing them on one of my favorite style influencers, who teamed them nearly exclusively with voluminous midi skirts and dresses. I hate that inch of exposed skin between the hemline of your skirt and your foot, and this pair of leather sneakers takes care of that for me in a pinch. Plus, unlike my favorite heeled summer boots, they don't make my feet ache.
Customer Review: "These fit very true to size and were the perfect sneaker for work with an added bounce in the sole." — Nordstrom
Keep it Close
Fashion insiders have long been pulling their sneaker collection inspiration from decades past. Think about the rise of boldly-colored '80s-inspired high-top sneakers. That sensibility is showing no signs of stopping in 2023 with the resurgence of 90s-inspired, minimalist options. “The chunky sneaker continues to decline as we see consumer demand shift to alternative styles that include platform sneaker styles,” says Browning.
Just about every celebrity has been spotted in this style of sneaker, from Harry Styles’s “Satellite Stomper” Adidas Gazelles to Kendall Jenner’s favorite aforementioned Samba sneakers from the brand. Shoes from Onitsuka Tiger have also risen in popularity recently, and have been spotted on Hailey Bieber and Kaia Gerber. Plus, the Nike Cortez is a longtime favorite.
These are one of those very trendy sneakers that are also very much worth the hype. I own them in both black and white and I wear them in equal measure. They're comfortable, yes, but they also go with everything I own, from mini skirts to denim shorts to trousers. I've found that these are the answer to the perfect office sneaker—they're low-profile and sleek and can be kept clean to the point of looking borderline formal. You can shop them in women's sizes 5 through 15.
Customer Review: "The Adidas Samba Vegan shoes are an impressive blend of comfort and sustainability. The faux-leather upper is surprisingly supple, while the Ortholite sockliner provides a cushioned, plush feel with every step. Retaining the classic Samba silhouette, these shoes are proof that style, comfort, and ethical production can harmoniously coexist. Highly recommended for eco-conscious consumers seeking cozy footwear!" — Adidas
While I would like to think that I brought back the Gazelle sneaker from Adidas, the credit should really go to Mr. Harry Styles, who wore them for nearly his entire Love on Tour world tour. While he has worn an array of options—some of which were a part of Gucci's collaboration with Adidas—over the course of the tour, he opted for a black (albeit customized) pair for the 2023 Grammy Awards—and I haven't stopped thinking about them since. Shoppable in sizes 5 through 15 and in tons of colors (navy! maroon! Bright green!) they look great when styled with just about anything, from summer dresses to jeans.
Customer Reivew: "Classic trainer, really comfortable & perfect fit. Great range of colours, easy to wear. " — Adidas
If you've long loved the Adidas Samba and are looking for something fresher for this summer, consider Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 Sneaker, a favorite of models like Kaia Gerber. The all-American red, white, and blue colorway is a classic, but I also love the yellow-and-black version, too. Gerber has worn the yellow pair with other neutral-toned pieces, like brown denim jeans and black T-shirts.
The Nike Cortez is one of those seasonless sneakers that always look cool. I wear mine with little white dresses to keep the tenniscore look alive, but they work just as well with flared jeans à la Farrah Fawcett. They're sporty by nature, so lean into that when styling. Think: elevated track pants, white tank tops, and track jackets. Or, play up their sweet side with folded-over socks and skirts. No matter how you choose to style them, they just work—and look better with age.
Customer Review: "I normally wear an 11M in women's shoes and I rarely have to size up. The leather feels supple to the point I’m not sure it will stretch out, however, the toe area is cramped. It does look a little like a bowling shoe but I adore them. In short size up about 1/2 a size. Oh, and they don’t make your feet look huge." — Nike
Corpcore Reloaded
Just as slimmer sneakers are becoming more popular, so too are futuristic, hyper-sporty options. Rihanna herself wore a red pair of red-and-pink sneakers from Gorpcore-favorite brand from Maison Margiela’s collaboration with Salomon. “More outdoor-focused trail styles are driving aesthetics in this space, they've evolved from previous seasons and are updated with a soft, feminine colour palette and trim detail,” says Browning.
To this point, Salomon recently collaborated on a pair of pastel pink sneakers with Sandy Liang, which sold out instantly and have been a favorite of the fashion set ever since. Black sneakers are popular in this category, too, as long as they have a colorful or metallic accent.
Key brands to look for when shopping the ongoing Gorpcore trend for 2023 are Saloman, which has been spotted on Bella Hadid, and Emily Ratajkowski. Asics sneakers are also popular, as are sneakers from New Balance.
Salomon's Pulsar Trail sneakers are meant to be worn hiking, but the fashion set has different ideas. Available in five colors including this muted gray, they look even better when worn with super-flouncy pieces. Available in sizes 5.5 through 11 and costing $130, these comfortable shoes are guaranteed to carry you through the day with ease. To keep them from looking adventure-ready, amp up the girliness of your accessories: lace socks or patterned tights are great, as is a pastel-hued wardrobe.
Customer Review: "I first tried the Pulsar Trail shoe this past summer and they have been my favorite shoe ever since. They are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. They aren't bulky or stiff like other trail shoes I've had and the cushion is just right. Easy to put on and get off and the tread is perfect for the trails. My feet are so comfortable in these shoes." — Zappos
These bright yellow sneakers from Loewe and On are the perfect combination of high fashion and performance. They come in several colors, but this striking shade is my favorite. Plus, On sneakers are beloved by runners and street-style fans alike, so I can all but guarantee that these will cradle your feet in comfort. You can shop them in sizes 36 (usually a US women's size 6) through a 42 (usually a US size 11.5). Style them with an all-white look for maximum summer appeal. Once the fall comes back around, they'll look just as nice with shades like navy, brown, and black.
These New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 sneakers come in two widths—standard and wide—and in women's sizes 5 through 12. They're made to withstand uneven terrain (making them great for your summer hikes) but I like them better when styled for the street. The grippy soles mean that you won't slip even on wet days, and the mostly-gray colorway makes them practically a neutral sneaker.
These olive green running shoes from Asics are great if you're looking for a super-comfortable sneaker that's great for the gym or for running errands. They get their name from the fact that they have a gel sole, making them great for wearing across long distances. The olive green colorway is a fun play on a neutral but the shoe also comes in shades like black and light gray. They come in one-width, come in half-sizes (major plus!) and come in women's shoe sizes 5.5 through 15.5.
Customer Review: "Purchased these to have a new neutral sneaker to my routine and it checks all of the boxes. Comfortable, stylish, and neutral. Considering another pair, actually. Keep it coming, Asics!" — Asics
So Fresh, So Clean
“Major players in the sportswear industry are putting longevity top of mind,” says Browning about the rise of simplistic, often logo-less sneakers right now. 2023’s take on the timeless sneakers takes cues from fashion-forward, preppy sports like tennis and golf. “Consumers are looking for investment items that are seasonless and can be worn year over year,” Browning continues. With this in mind, look for sneakers that come in timeless colors like white or green.
As far as brands, look for brands that have a history of expertly combining sporty aesthetics with wearability, such as Keds (and their new sneaker with Recreational Habits) and Superga. For a sneaker that falls in line with the trend and actually can be used for working out, turn to brands like ON and P448.
If you're looking for a pair of sneakers that is chunky without being too big on your feet, look no further than this option from cult-favorite brand Pedro Shoes. They're perfectly priced at just under $100 and are available to shop in women's sizes 35 (typically a US size 5) through 40 (typically a US size 9.5). They don't come in half sizes, sadly, but they do come in three neutral colorways. First-time shoppers also can score a 10 percent discount.
"I love a great collaboration, and this Keds x Recreational Habits. I've been personally testing these for a few days and can attest to their wearability and the fact that I have no blisters, which is a major plus as the weather warms up. The gum sole is retro enough without feeling over the top, while the sporty green-and-white colorway is decidedly tennis-inspired. Shop them in women's sizes 5 through 11. When it comes to styling, I would lean in with the sporty factor: white dress." — Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor
"I swear by these Superga sneakers. I've worn them since high school—not the same pair, but they do last for ages. My reasons for loving them are plentiful: They're comfortable, great for wearing to the beach if you hate sandals, are elevated enough to be worn with a sundress, are easy to clean and lightweight to pack in a weekend bag, and don't cause blisters even when I wear them right out of the box. They also come in tons of colors, including this spiffy white option and a navy colorway that my mom has relied on for almost 20 years. Plus, at just $69, it's well worth it for you to invest in more than one pair." — Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor
Customer Review: "Love these sneakers! They go great with so many outfits. That’s why I had to get a second pair. The quality is good too. I've washed them several times and they go through the wash well. As for size, they were true to size for me." — Superga
P448 makes some of the coolest, under-the-radar sneakers—like this lived-in-looking pair. If you're someone who's hard on the sneakers you love, this option is great because you don't have to worry about them looking beat up over time. The brushed suede look on the toe and heel gives them a relaxed look from the get-go, while the elasticated ankle design will do away with any awkward gaping. Available in two colorways and in US sizes 5 through 13 (no half-sizes, sadly), they're perfect for throwing on and living in all day.
Orange You Glad?
Consider an orange sneaker if you’re looking to step out of your color comfort zone this summer (begone, basic black sneakers!). The shade is one of Browning’s top picks for the season ahead. The hue is used “as a monochromatic palette and also paired well with more mellow vintage shades,” she says.
Sporty brands like APL and HOKA have produced full-on neon orange running sneakers for summer, while other brands, like Reebok or Birdies, have opted for orange finishes on their sneakers.
These top-rated running shoes from internet-favorite brand HOKA are best-in-class for a reason. They come in tons of bright colors, are available in women's sizes 5 through 12 (including half-sizes!), and have hundreds of five-star reviews. This pair in particular proves that orange looks best when paired with other equally-bright colors like purple and blue, but they look just as nice with all-white ensembles—you'll for sure be the boldest runner at the gym. The cushioned sole absorbs impact with every step so you feel like you're floating as you move.
Customer Review: "Very comfortable. So comfortable that I feel like I'm walking on air. I wear these when I take my dog on walks. These shoes, by far, are the BEST shoe I've ever owned!!!" — Nordstrom
APL's best-selling TechLoom Bliss sneakers are great because you don't have to mess around with fussy laces—and because they come in this neon orange colorway. It might be best to opt for something other than your favorite pair of black leggings with this option, but you can always lean into the bright factor and style with other colors, or with light-wash jeans. They come in sizes 5 through 11 (including half sizes!) and are 100 percent vegan.
Customer Review: "This is my 3rd pair. They’re so comfortable for everyday wear. I stand on my feet for 8-10 hours daily and these shoes make it feels like I’m standing on clouds." — APL
Looking to add a little *spice* to your footwear collection? This pair of sneakers from Birdies—in collaboration with 21SEEDS Tequila—is here to do just that. The otherwise simple white sneaker is updated with orange accents in the form of beads across the toe and subtle outlining around the logo, so you won't feel too far out of your comfort zone. They are available to shop in women's sizes 5 through 12 and half-sizes (a major plus!) and they come in other colorways of orange isn't for you.
Customer Review: "Fits like a glove; it’s a supple but supportive shoe, and when I move it’s like walking on clouds. At first, I thought the shoes would be too tight. Then I stood up and my feet sank into the cushioned soles … ah! Pillows! I wore them all day today. No toe or heel chafing, no squeezing at the width, just heaven on my feet. I couldn’t be happier. Nor could my feet." — Birdies
You can never go wrong with Reebok shoes, and this on-trend orange-and-white pair is proof. A 2023 refresh of the iconic Club C sneaker (beloved by Harry Styles and Cardi B, among others), this option is sure to put a smile on your face. The silhouette is pretty tame and close-fitting, so I would recommend going all-out when it comes to your other footwear accessories, like socks or tights. Or, let the orange tongue be the star of the show and keep the rest of your outfit simple—a white T-shirt and a denim jacket.
Meet The Expert
Experienced in luxury editorial, trend forecasting, and strategic consulting, Kendall is currently the Fashion & Beauty Trends Editor at Trendalytics as well as a freelance writer for Refinery29, The Zoe Report, LuisaViaRoma, WhoWhatWear, and Coveteur. Prior, she was the Assistant Fashion Director for Women’s RTW at Bloomingdale’s and contributed to global trend forecasting agencies. Plus, she’s a fashion media personality and expert that’s been featured in ABC, Cheddar News, Harper’s BAZAAR, GQ, Bustle, Sourcing Journal, Brides, and Vice.
Working at the intersection of sport, design, and culture, Charlotte brings over 10 years of industry experience to WGSN from professional sport, marketing, and product creation. Her multidisciplinary background provides a valuable, bespoke lens as an active trend forecaster and strategist.
As a professional athlete, Charlotte worked with several sportswear brands, including New Balance and Hoka One One. Before joining WGSN, Charlotte worked in colour design and material development at Arc’teryx Equipment.
Passionate and curious, Charlotte’s participation in sport and the design industry extends outside of work, inspiring and informing her trend intelligence content.
-
Tinx Shares the Books and Authors Who Give Her the Best Life AdviceSee the rest of the social media star's favorite titles in the latest episode of Marie Claire's 'Shelf Portrait.'
-
Tube Tops Are Back From the Dead—And You Need One in Your Closet
The perfect summer party look, in my humble opinion.
-
Why 'Manifest' Season 5 Never Happened
Creator Jeff Rake initially planned for 'Manifest' to be six seasons, but Netflix—and NBC—had other plans.
