As a loafers lover, I’m sure that headline seemed like a dig at the beloved fall shoe trend, but, conversely, I’m just spotlighting a shoe trend that fashion people are much more interested in. Loafers have long been synonymous with the fall season, so it’s easy to put other shoe trends in different categories. Still, there’s one in particular that never gets its flowers during the cooler seasons—until now. Cool girls are opting out of loafers and in for chunky sneakers instead.
This may come as a surprise for some, but lately even celebrities like Charlotte Lawrence have been spotted wearing chunky sneakers. Notably, a pair of Salomons, which have become the most popular non-fashion fashion shoe. "Regardless of the trends, we consistently draw inspiration from our heritage, which is rooted in performance innovation," said Salomon's marketing director of Performance and Sportstyle, Erin Cooper. "Today’s consumer is drawn to find products that work with their lifestyle, which has lent itself to be inherently functional," Cooper continued.
Just a few years ago, the hypebeast era of fashion had everyone in a pair of ultra-chunky sneakers, and now the pendulum has swung back around, this time in chicer, more effortless ways. It girls on Instagram are contrasting outfits with a pair of chunky sneakers, and I predict they will continue to do so throughout the fall. If you think so too, keep scrolling to shop for the perfect go-to chunky sneakers for fall 2026.
How Fashion Girls Wear Chunky Sneakers
Style Tip: Go gorpcore with a hike-friendly look with a pair of Salomons and a lightweight jacket.
Style Tip: Go full fall mode in a brown tonal look.
Style Tip: Who said sneakers can't be chic? Stick with a neutral sneaker with your jeans outfit.
Style Tip: Sneakers look chic even with a leather coat.
Style Tip: Sporty chic can always be a great go-to. Throw on a cool track jacket with your pair.
Style Tip: Your best bet to look elegant with sneakers is to wear them with jeans and a lightweight sweater.
Shop the Best Chunky Sneakers
The most stylish hiking shoes to exist.
Simple and sporty with a touch of chic, my favorite type of sneakers.
These are a fun, trendy pair to style for fall.
Perfect for fall.
Yellow is an unsung hero in the sneaker color trends department.
Thick laces are an interesting touch.
Finally, sneakers that make me want to go hiking.
Who doesn't love a classic running shoe?
Silver sneakers are always cool in my book.
I must have this rich green pair.
I'm a fan of this simple color palette.
These are so good.
This collaboration sneaker is so cool-girl-coded.
You can never go wrong with simple, but cool sneakers like these.
I love how understated and chic these are.
The perfect neutral sneaker does exist.
Run in style in these sneakers.
This blue is so pretty.
Sneakers for the brave dressers.
These are cool.
I love a pink and red contrast.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.