You say the sneaker trend is over? In fact, now is the time to wear sneakers
Lately, for some reason my gaze keeps returning to sneakers. It's been less than six months since I wrote an article declaring 'the end of sneakers,' arguing that no matter how you wear them, sneakers can't give a dressed-up impression.
These days, people who consider themselves stylish all wear leather shoes. Even on my commute this morning I saw several people who had dressed up with pointed boots or shoes with thin soles. Is it because of a contrarian streak that instinctively looks askance at anything everyone else is doing? Sneakers, which for a while felt childish, are starting to look like a 'hero item' that can instead create an exceptional look. I'm not the only one who has noticed that now—when interest in sneakers has waned—is paradoxically the time to wear them. From Harry Styles, who helped fuel the low loafer trend, to others pulling their Adidas back out, the movement is visible. On the street, styling sneakers with dresses or skirts is particularly noticeable. Here are five sneaker looks that will be valid from now through autumn.
Denim Skirt + Dad Shoes
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Let's look at a daily outfit suitable not only for commuting but also for outings. The first item to pick up is a denim skirt. Instead of the boots that are the denim skirt's usual partner, try wearing retro-tinged 'dad shoes' underneath. You'll create a look that's uncommon yet won't feel awkward to onlookers—or to yourself. You can adjust the mood of the outfit with the top half: anything from a casual work jacket to a formal blazer works.
Little Black Dress + Chunky Sneakers
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The 'little black dress,' celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, is an item specialized in creating an elegant atmosphere. A guest spotted during New York Fashion Week paired a tough rider jacket with a little black dress. Notice the savvy choice to boost the charm of the mix-and-match—selecting chunky sneakers that give a rough impression similar to the leather jacket. It's a curious styling where feminine, mannish, and casual all coexist.
Long Black Dress + Black Sneakers
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How about a long black dress, which is good to wear even in summer thanks to its relaxed fit? What I most recommend is black canvas sneakers. If you wear flashy-colored or boldly silhouetted sneakers, the eye may end up drawn only to your feet. Don't forget to pay attention to accessories like a bag or jewelry to prevent the look from seeming dull.
White Ruffle Dress + Colorful Sneakers
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This isn't a minimal white dress. I'm talking about white dresses that emphasize a feminine mood by piling on ruffle details—styles consistently shown by brands like Simone Rocha or Cecilie Bahnsen. Dresses of this design certainly look charming, but have the drawback of feeling somewhat impractical. This is where sneakers come in. Simply wearing utterly everyday trainers can pull a ruffle dress that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale into the realm of reality. If you choose brightly colored sneakers, you can also give the look a touch of wit.
T-shirt Dress + Colored Tennis Shoes
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In a summer when you'd break into a sweat just standing still, try making use of a T-shirt dress. It's not only cool and comfortable but can also be styled stylishly. The T-shirt dress has exactly one shortcoming: the item itself is too plain. Wearing neat tennis shoes can compensate for this shortcoming. They create a preppy vibe and complete a look perfectly suited to the season. You don't have to insist on the black T-shirt dress and yellow sneaker combination shown in the example photo. Just remember this formula: a minimal dress and sneakers in colors that suit summer!
Published: April 20, 2026
