Isabel Marant Slip-On Sneaker in Chinatown Pattern
Last year, you couldn’t swing your crossbody bag without smacking it right into someone wearing an Isabel Marant sneaker wedge (or an iteration of it from other labels hoping to ride the shoe’s French coattails). But like all good things, the sneaker wedge trend has come to and end, but that doesn’t mean that you’ve got nothing but pumps and blister-inducing booties to wear. This year, the sneaker that’s taken the top spot is the humble slip on.
Popularized by surfers and skaters in SoCal when they were released by Vans, they’ve become a high fashion darling thanks to designers such as Céline and Givenchy interpreting them in luxe materials and eye-catching patterns. Even brands such as Tory Burch, Michael Kors and more have released cool, covetable slip-ons. The trend’s in full force now, so you can snag the style from just about every designer (and at every price point). Here are our picks, which will have you stepping in style and comfort all season long.
Vans Classic Slip-On
For those of you who want to go old school, there’s no reason to stray from the original. SoCal brand Vans is still churning out their classic slip-on sneaker under their more fashion-forward California line as well as its main label. Madewell even styled their spring looks with the brand’s classic checkered slip-on, showing just how versatile the cult-fave shoe can be. Our pick for the season is the more eye-catching Classic Slip-On in Metallic Bronze ($60). It’s got the same shape you remember, but in lieu of checkered canvas, it’s elevated by a sleek bronze finish. Wear them with cropped pants for French je ne sais quoi or with a sundress for sweet Coachella-ready style.
Available at Piperlime.
Sperry Top-Sider Mariner
If you’re in search of a novelty print a la Céline but still want something unique, go for the Sperry Top-Sider Mariner ($59.95). It’s got the unmistakable nautical flavor that you’d expect from a label like Sperry Top-Sider, but it’s still neutral enough to wear with most of your wardrobe. While the anchor pattern and neon trim might veer into twee territory, they’re the perfect weekend shoe whether or not you’re summering on the Cape. If your style icons lean more towards the sweet American style of Taylor Swift than the avant garde Tilda Swinton, these are the shoes for you.
Available at Nordstrom.
KG Kurt Geiger Londres Slip-On
One way that designers are setting themselves apart from the humble offerings from Vans and other street wear brands is to offer their slip-ons in unique materials and standout colors. The KG Kurt Geiger Londres Slip-On ($87.06) checks both boxes, with a faux-reptile finish and a slightly shiny oxblood hue. Wear these for a more dressed-up formal look (it’s also available in a sleek black suede if ruby red slip-ons are too Oz for your tastes), especially if you’re heading to a more buttoned-up work environment.
Available at Nordstrom.
Steve Madden Ecentric Pony Hair Flat
In addition to the cheeky plaid pattern pictured above, Céline released slip-ons in a stealthy black ponyhair (Zara soon followed with a nearly identical style that street style bloggers snatched up in the blink of an eye). Get the same texture with the Steve Madden Ecentric Pony Hair Flat ($99.95), but stand out from the sea of black shoes with a camo print. Just when we think camo is on its way out, it comes back strong in both women’s collections (see: Michael Kors) and menswear (see: just about every designer). Pair these with jeans for a cool urban look that’s perfect for pounding the city pavement.
Available at Nordstrom.
Aerin Murex Perforated Slip-On Sneaker
If you’re still stuck in the throes of a polar vortex, then skip the Aerin Murex Perforated Slip-On Sneaker ($148). But for those in more hospitable environs, there’s no better way to welcome the spring and summer months than with Aerin Lauder’s take on the trend. In true blueblood style, she’s elevated the simple slip-on with cool perforated leather (the shoe’s also available in white for a real resort-ready pick). Slide into these when you’re wearing a skirt or dress and you’ll look ready for street style photographers no matter where you live.
Available at Nordstrom.
Images courtesy Nordstrom and Piperlime
