Hit the pavement with a decisive thwack, courtesy of the still-relevant chunky sneakers trend, a '90s relic that's returned along with the likes of smocked tube tops, peeptoe mule sandals, cargo pants, and Princess Diana's off-duty bike shorts. In case you adore the look but want to deviate a notch away from the usual options, here, we've picked out for you a curation of seven cute, fun pairs that are either funky spins on fan faves or totally new picks you weren't even considering.
1. Louis Vuitton Archlight, $1060 (approximately P53,975), Greenbelt 4
Even Leandra Medine Cohen of ManRepeller approves, so you should, too. The iconic Louis Vuitton Archlight sneaker is revisited this season in boldly patterned technical fabric, inspired by cycling apparel, which featured at the Spring-Summer 2020 fashion show. Instantly recognizable for its wave-shaped outsole, this model also has an oversized tongue and a feminine low cut around the ankle. Oh, and we're loving this sleek, chic tan and black colorway, too.
2. Balenciaga Triple-S Clear Sole, $1070 (approximately P54,500), Greenbelt 5
Ah, the original cool kid street style favorite. The Balenciaga team, helmed by Demna Gvasalia, took design cues from running, basketball, and track kicks while designing the ubiquitous Triple S shoes. Set on exaggerated transparent rubber soles, this sporty pair is made from smooth leather and tactile mesh embroidered with the label's boxy logo on the side. Wear them with everything from distressed, floor skimming jeans and gauzy floral frocks to your regular weekend yoga threads.
3. Dior D-Connect in Champretre Multicolor Neoprene, $1050 (approximately P53,461), The Shoppes at Solaire
This one's a number for the demure, dainty girls. The Dior D-Connect sneaker is womenswear creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s modern and bold interpretation of the essential wardrobe piece, crafted expertly in bloom dusted Champetre neoprene that is inspired by this season's theme of exotic blossoms in a wild garden. It features transparent rubber inserts and a wraparound rubber sole, plus a grosgrain ribbon stitched on the upper to complement the laces bearing a 'DIOR' signature.
4. Gucci Flashtrek with Crystals, $1590 (approximately P81,043), Shangri-la Plaza East Wing
Refuse to play the wallflower? Alessandro Michele can definitely relate. Sparkling crystals are embroidered onto a removable elastic strap, wrapping around these unbeliveably sparkly Gucci sneakers. Inspired by the hiking world, this shoe line combines an oversized design with dreamlike details meant to catch the light and, while they're at it, every interested eye in sight. Featuring a dynamic mix of materials—count rubber, suede, and technical canvas among 'em—this pair's defined by the house patch with the graphic font of the Japanese video game developer SEGA, a fixture in the colorful arcades and coin-op gaming rooms of the '80s.
5. Fendi FFluid, $801 (approximately P40,795), Rustan's
Here's that subtle logo splash you were craving for. Silvia Venturini Fendi, granddaughter to the brand's original founders, borrows classic sporty elements for these FFluid sneakers that're set on curved white and orange rubber soles, pieced together from supple panels of suede, mesh, and canvas. The brand's timeless, telltale Zucca logo accents the uppers with those coveted Fs, and (fun fact!) they're detailed with the coordinates of Rome’s Palazzo della Civiltà. There's no reason you shouldn't wear your geography lessons.
6. Versace Chain Reaction, $1036 (approximately P52,805), The Shoppes at Solaire
Gilded, gold, and gaudy in the very best way, Versace's Chain Reaction sneakers embody the brand's identity far too perfectly—note the signature baroque print and the Greek Key motif appliquéd at the front. Perched on a puffy rubber sole inspired by the maison's famous, heavy chain jewelry, they're made from sturdy suede, nylon, and leather and supremely cushioned for comfort. Versace on the Floor, but make it literal. Bruno Mars would be beyond proud.
7. Jimmy Choo Diamond, $810 (approximately P41,314), Shangri-la Plaza East Wing
Shine bright like a Jimmy Choo Diamond and its striking, old rose-hued stacked soles! The clunky, angular shape is inspired by its namesake multi-faceted gem stone and cut out at the arch for flexibility. Made in Italy from stunning glittered canvas and textured leather, they're padded for comfort and are surprisingly lightweight. Keep yours the focus or any OOTD with cropped jeans, a prim tea length midi skirt, or some comfy bermuda shorts.
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