Trainers or sneakers may once have been reserved for a trip to the gym or a quick run around the block, but these days, they are an essential part of every fashion-conscious individual’s wardrobe and a key ingredient of off-duty cool. The rise of the high-end athleisure trend has propelled them well and truly to the top of the list when it comes to our most coveted items, and with the world’s biggest luxury fashion houses coming up with some show-stopping models over recent years that exemplify style and opulence, they now have just as much of a place on the red carpet as they do the streets.
Embellishments like glitter, studs and crystals combine with contrasting textures and fabrics and beautiful designs in the latest luxury fashion sneakers. Here are three pairs to add to your wardrobe this season to elevate any outfit – whether formal or informal – to stylish new heights.
Gucci’s Rhyton trainers/sneakers
Gucci is one of the leading luxury fashion brands to have fully embraced athleisure, with its range of sporting and loungewear some of the most highly sought-after amongst luxury enthusiasts. For A/W 2023, it has launched the stunning Rhyton model, which is already causing quite the stir on social media, and a pair is certain to feature on the Christmas lists of celebrities and fashion influencers alike.
The Gucci Rhyton is available in both the men’s and women’s new season ranges and features a carefully selected palette of colours that brings to life the classic GG logo through its contrast with a neutral, muted base. For a minimalist look with an impact, the new Rhyton heart trainers in ivory leather are the obvious choice, with an exceptionally sophisticated design that also guarantees maximum comfort and support thanks to a springy 45mm rubber sole.
Made entirely in Italy, the Rhyton heart trainers are the perfect pick to complete an urban look, and looks just as good paired with a floaty, feminine dress as they do your favourite pair of jeans.
Balenciaga’s Speed 2.0 Graffiti trainers/sneakers
Combining the comfort of trainers with the style of boots, the Speed 2.0 Graffiti trainer is a Balenciaga classic and incorporates the brand’s most iconic features with the addition of some punchy urban details. The Balenciaga graffiti style logo, printed on the unique sole, adds a little something extra to this covetable model, and a worn-out effect uplevels the cool factor to never seen before heights.
The technical features are also incredible, and include the 3D recycled knit, an ultra-articulated moulded sole and a ‘No Memory’ sole technology, as well as extra lightness for a barefoot feel. The perfect luxury sneakers for the city and the go-to choice for the everyday, a pair of Graffitis offer slick style with a contemporary twist for those who favour an edgier modern look.
Alexander McQueen’s Tread Slick trainers/sneakers
Alexander McQueen is a brand famous for its bold runway looks, and its line of trainers is one of the most sought-after in luxury fashion today. The Tread Slick boot-style trainer is the star of the show in the A/W 2023 range, sitting at ankle length and featuring a round toe, lace-up front fastening, and a brand embossed tongue.
As an added bonus, this understated pair of monochrome trainers is versatile enough to go with just about everything in your wardrobe and will effortlessly win you style points, working well with the new season’s flares and wide-legs as well as combining effortlessly with office attire and formal attire. The breath-taking design and flawless tailoring make the Tread Slick model one of the most opulent on the block, and one that you’ll wish you’d added to your wardrobe even sooner.
