For years, we saw very specific adidas sneakers trending in the market. First came the Samba takeover, then the Gazelle revival and suddenly, every outfit on my feed featured the same pair. But the fashion set has officially entered a new chapter. Instead of relying on one sneaker style, the idea is to build wardrobes around a handful of archival silhouettes, fashion collaborations, and sleek performance styles that each bring something different and new to an outfit.
After spending the past few months paying close attention to what editors, influencers, and impeccably dressed people are actually wearing, one thing has become clear: adidas is still leading the conversation, but the rotation has expanded beyond Sambas. Slim retro runners are replacing chunky sneakers, ballet-inspired silhouettes have gained momentum this summer across the board, and heritage handball shoes are the perfect "wrong shoe" to pair with a tailored trouser or feel right at home with vintage denim. If you're looking to refresh your sneakers lineup, these are the 10 adidas styles worth knowing now.
Retro runners continue to dominate, and the SL 72 remains one of the most wearable options. The vintage shape feels sporty without looking like an actual running shoe, making it ideal for everyday styling.
The Taekwondo sneaker perfectly captures fashion's continued obsession with balletcore. Its sleek, minimal shape feels lighter and more fashion-forward than a traditional sneaker, making it an easy choice for sleek trousers or a cotton dress.
The shoe that started it all. While this style may not necessarily feel like a novelty item anymore, it's earned its place as a true wardrobe stable. And there's a reason why it became so popular—you can wear it a number of ways so the possibilities are endless here.
Originally created decades ago and recently revived, the Japan sneaker feels especially relevant now that streamlined silhouettes have replaced bulkier trainers. It’s polished, refined, and pairs beautifully with tailored pieces.
If you’ve been looking for a Samba that feels a little less expected, Liberty London’s signature floral prints breathe fresh life into the iconic silhouette. It delivers all the versatility of the original with just enough personality to make an outfit feel special.
If you're into the low-profile sneaker trend but want something that feels slightly more niche than the Samba, the Tokyo is your answer. The slim silhouette and retro running inspiration make it incredibly easy to wear and the perfect summer-to-fall transition shoe.
Think of this as the fashion person’s update to the classic Japan. It keeps the same vintage spirit while offering a more contemporary feel that works effortlessly with minimalist wardrobes.
The Handball Spezial has quietly become one of fashion insiders’ favorite sneakers to wear all year round. Its suede finish and rich colorways make it feel slightly more elevated than your average everyday trainer, which explains why it’s become a regular fixture in editor wardrobes.
I wouldn't necessarily call these fashion sneakers, but for the fashion set who sets time aside for fitness, these are the pick to go with. Lightweight and streamlined, these could be the pair you see on every fashion girl who goes on a jog in the mornings.
