The sneaker has moved far beyond its classic form. Over the past few years, designers have pushed the boundaries of what it can look and feel like, reworking the everyday shoe through satin finishes, bow fastenings, ballet-inspired shapes, charm details, sculptural soles and even hybrid heels. For Spring-Summer 2026, the best pairs are not just practical additions to your wardrobe; they’re literally the perfect finishing touch to your outfits.
Onitsuka Tiger | Mexico 66 TGRS Sneakers
Ballet flats are going anywhere anytime soon and Onitsuka Tiger have only further proved that point by taking their signature design details and adding them onto a chic ballet flat-sneaker hybrid! While this style has been out in the market for some time now, expect a resurgence in looks featuring this sneaker as the warmer months continue to push for breezier styles.
Miu Miu | Plume Satin Sneakers
Continuing to dominate the sneaker game with both its own collections and its New Balance collaborations, the satin sneaker by Miu Miu has been another influence on sneaker trends, going from ballet flat-sneaker hybrids to an even more demure and feminine version. With pastel colours and shiny fabric, it’s a pop of colour that doesn’t distract from an outfit.
New Balance X Miu Miu | 530 Sl Faded Suede Mules
We cannot talk about trending sneakers and not mention the collaboration that is currently consistently defining sneakers trends! The latest drop by New Balance X Miu Miu took the original design details that we love and created a hybrid of a sneaker-mule. Half sportswear, half loungewear, this shoe is perfect for the summer, for when we need breathable, cosy shoes to slip on.
ALO YOGA | ALO Sunset Sneaker
Suede sneakers are becoming the it-girl’s favourite piece and it’s not hard to see why. They are casual yet classy and work with jeans, pleated trousers and everything else in between without looking over the top. And when we think of suede sneakers, the Sunset Sneaker by ALO YOGA is what’s on our minds, the light taupe colour is another colourway making its way to the fashion-forward as a new neutral.
New Balance | 471
As we lean further and further into vintage styles, it should come as no surprise that retro-esque sneakers are trending. The 471 especially takes inspiration from ‘70s aesthetics, from its low top profile to its mesh and suede overlays that give it that “lived-in” look, making it a casually effortless option to sport.
adidas x Wales Bonner | Karintha Sneakers in Woven Leather
Another shoe collaboration that rarely goes unnoticed, the latest release by adidas x Wales Bonner takes the mesh style that’s been in with the fashion crowd for some time now and switches it up with woven leather instead. This allows the feet to breathe as the shoe provides ventilation while also keeping them stylish.
Dries Van Noten | Heeled Sneaker Mules
Switching up the classic sneaker silhouette, it’s a style that’s slowly gaining popularity for blending streetwear and chic fashion. These shoes test the balance of masculine and feminine dressing and are definitely built to be a conversation starter.
PUMA x J.L-A.L | Cell Geo 1
Alongside the sneaker hybrids was the unassuming sneaker-loafer hybrid that disrupted footwear trends last year. While it’s mainly been seen around menswear circles, we can expect the dapper style mixed with streetwear energy to hit the mainstream soon. In two colourways, a patent black that seamlessly blends in a black tie event, and a cocoa brown, which features slightly worn-in patina that gives the shoe its personality. Either way, this collab gives the sneaker a fresh makeover, redefining the terms and contexts in which a sneaker can be.
