Let's talk about '90s trainers that refuse to take a step back. When looking at the fashion trends of the '90s, there's one thing in common among the decade's top models, actresses and singers: their love of trainers. Although it was an era dominated by square boots and platforms, trainers were really the style staple that defined the decade and became the signature of many artists. Kurt Cobain, for instance, made Converse synonymous with the grunge movement, while the Spice Girls made chunky galactic sneakers their own.
Flat or chunky, neutral or metallic, the humble trainer continues to dominate catwalks and street style. A pair of trainers is more than a comfortable choice (although they're certainly that, too!): they're the style cheat code to make any outfit cool. Here are five nostalgic '90s trainers that are undergoing a revival for the rest of the year.
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Let's start with white trainers, the normcore staple and best friend of celebrities like Julia Roberts and Jennifer Aniston. Minimalist in appearance, with an almond toe, (very) flat sole and in pristine white, this versatile and timeless style is still influencing runways to this day, including Prada. The Italian brand launched its own version with a dirty effect that promises to give the classic Veja, Golden Goose and Superga silhouettes a run for their money. They will be the key to tennis-inspired looks, or embracing the kind of effortless elegance we see on Kate Middleton.
Football-inspired trainers, especially from brands like Adidas, are everywhere. The dominant styles from the German sportswear brand are the classic Samba, Gazelle and Tokyo. Their flat sole, oval toe and retro design with signature side stripes have won the hearts of both trend hunters and lovers of more classic fashion. In the 90s, fashion icons like Kate Moss and Gwyneth Paltrow dared to wear them with more formal clothes, creating a style that has been copied countless times, from catwalks to the streets. These trainers will continue to please this season, from athletic brands to luxury versions by Stella McCartney, Miu Miu and Gabriela Hearst.
The ultra chunky sneakers of the ‘90s are not for the discreet woman, but for those who love to make a statement with every step. They are bold, fun and trendy, best identified by a thick sole that is anything but subtle. Brands like Puma popularised them in the late ’90s and early 2000s, and you'll find them in old paparazzi shots of stars like J. Lo and Gwen Stefani. It's an irreverent model that looks spectacular with cargo pants, straight jeans, or sportswear.
Canvas high top trainers, like those by Converse, defined the grunge era of the ‘90s. They were the main character in the alternative style of celebrities like Winona Ryder, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kurt Cobain. Whether in their classic form (flat sole) or their chunky version with colossal soles, don’t hesitate to invest in a pair. Or, if you still have them, bring out your old ones from the back of the wardrobe! Luxury brands like Bottega Veneta and Louis Vuitton have already shown their take on the canvas silhouette, if you're looking for something more exclusive. While the signature version features a canvas upper, brands often remix this style with different materials, like this season's favourite, suede.
Finally, we come to dad sneakers. You can find them at New Balance, Nike, Ami Paris and Asics – or Balenciaga, if you want to go for the luxury version. Sporty silhouettes made for running are the answer to add an athleisure touch to your autumn wardrobe. A classic late ‘90s option, they look amazing with cigarette jeans, leggings with leg warmers, or tennis-style mini skirts as seen on Britney Spears in 1999. Which autumn runways did they show up on? Cecilie Bahnsen, Y-3 and Roberto Cavalli.
A version of this article was originally published on Vogue Mexico and Latin America.
