5 Sneaker Trends That Will Define Summer 2021

Out of all the shoe styles I talk about here on Who What Wear, sneakers have to be my favorite. First, there's the obvious: They're comfortable. Second, they're such versatile shoes that despite each pair varying in design, you can style each in a plethora of ways. Want to wear the shoes you wore to the gym with your brunch 'fit? Go ahead. Want to wear them with jeans and a T-shirt? That works too. Sneakers have become more common on the fashion scene recently, even in more formal attire, partially because people just want to prioritize comfort.

While sneakers are the type of shoes that you pair with almost anything, we've still done the work of picking out the styles we saw heavily on the runways and on the fashion set more recently. I'll try my best to wear a pair of heels or two this upcoming season, but let's be honest—the sneakers below are probably going to get more use. 

This just might prove that sometimes vintage designs are just better. While you may think some styles being released are new, many brands like Nike and New Balance have been releasing modern renditions of their vintage sneaker designs. If something worked well, why not keep it going? 

I know what you're thinking: These will never go out of style. You're right. There's always room for a clean and classic sneak in your closet. But the simple footwear is being appreciated more than ever. There's plenty of styles, so choose your fighter because I know you'll be wearing them fairly often.

For a while, sneakers that were considered "fashion sneakers" were often ones that were designed with aesthetics in mind rather than athletics. Now, I'm seeing more fashion girls embrace athletic sneakers and incorporate them into their looks. Best of both worlds?

While there's always a spot for minimalist sneakers in your wardrobe, don't be afraid to add in a pop of color for a little fun. I love when the shoes are the only touch of color in a look or when fashion girls contrast their whole outfit with their sneaks as well. Sneakers don't always have to be basic, after all.

I've always been more of a low-top girl, but I have been warming up to the idea of high-tops just because I think they can help give off a look that flows a bit more and feels more elevated than my usual trusted ankle-grazing pairs. 

Next: 6 Chic Spring and Summer Outfits That Work Best With Sneakers