Sleek Retro Runners – The Hollywood Reporter

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When you’re ready to step out of those high heels and pair your baggy jeans or low rise jeans with something more casual, you really can’t go wrong with a great pair of sneakers. A step up from basic white kicks, retro runners transform well for casual back-to-the-office looks from spring to summer and beyond, while looking to the past to add a bit of flair. old-fashioned playfulness to modern wardrobes.

Meghan Markle has previously been spotted in eco-friendly sneakers from Rothy’s and Veja, and classic athletic shoe brands like Adidas, New Balance and Nike are regularly seen on stars such as J. Lo, Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Naomi Watts , Shay Mitchell and Katie. Holmes, to name a handful.

If you’re looking to add a vintage-inspired touch to your spring ensembles without going too far into the dad shoe trend or ugly sneaker territory, we’ve rounded up the best retro sneakers for women. You’ll find a slew of unisex sneakers from the sportswear brands above, as well as durable styles from Everlane, Madewell and others. Check out all of our top picks ahead.

1. Women’s New Balance 574v2 Trainers

We’re fans of the chunky silhouette of New Balance’s popular 574 trainers, which get a road- and trail-friendly redesign and a wider fit in this v2 silhouette. The shoes are made with a suede and mesh upper and feature a durable rubber outsole and lightweight foam cushioning in the midsole and heel for added comfort.

2. Rag & Bone Retro Runners

Win fashion and eco with Rag & Bone’s retro trainers, which feature a suede and recycled polyester upper (made from 100% plastic bottles) and a padded EVA footbed with arch support .

3. Nike DBreak Sneakers

While Nike has no shortage of vintage-inspired sneakers (think the Challenger, Cortez, and Waffle Trainer, to name a few), we’re fans of these DBreak sneakers for their enduring makeover. The 1979-born silhouette features a 100% recycled canvas upper and the embroidered floral design is a nod to the fact that plant-based dyes were used.

4. Women’s Tretorn Rawlins Sneakers

Available in over 10 stylish colors, Swedish brand Tretorn’s Rawlins trainers evoke the classic tennis shoe silhouette with hints of lavender, the Pantone color of the year 2022. These shoes have an EcoOrtholite insole, extra cushioning in the heel and a natural rubber outsole for all-day comfort, breathability and traction.

5. Veja V-10 Alveomesh Sneakers

By far one of the best eco-friendly sneaker brands, Veja is regularly seen on the feet of stars like Chloe Grace Moretz, Emily Ratajkowski and Emma Watson. The V-10 trainers from the Brazilian brand based in France are made with the breathable Alveomesh material made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and a rubber sourced sustainably from the Amazon rainforest.

6. Adidas x Ivy Park Savage Sneakers

You’d be hard pressed to find someone who didn’t look good in Adidas’ favorite Superstar sneakers, but for a Beyoncé-approved fashion statement, opt for Ivy Park’s Savage kicks instead. The Grammy-winning star’s brand has taken the 1999-born silhouette and given it a modern update with neutral hues and pops of red.

7. Onitsuka Tiger Unisex Serrano Sneakers

Onitsuka Tiger is synonymous with retro sneaker aesthetics, as the Japanese sportswear brand was founded in 1949 and became known for outfitting the feet of marathon runners, Olympians and Bruce Lee – and let’s not forget the brand cameo in Kill Bill (where Uma Thurman’s The Bride wore Tai-Chi-Nm style in yellow). The revamped shoe brand’s unisex Serrano leather trainers offer the same effortless look and come in a range of colors, and they pair easily with jeans and maxi dresses.

8. 70s Re/Done Running Shoes

Re/Done, It Model’s beloved brand, brings a luxe twist to the ’70s-inspired shoe silhouette with these retro trainers for women. Handmade in Italy, these shoes are made from ethically sourced leather and suede and are finished with a foam tongue.

9. Karl Lagerfeld Platform Sneakers

Long live Karl Lagerfeld, whose charming likeness adorns these platform sneakers from his eponymous label. They’re made from black leather with patent details that add a touch of edgy luxury to spring looks.

10. Madewell Kickoff Trainer Sneakers

Madewell’s stylish retro trainers. will appeal to co-conscious wearers, which are made from sustainably sourced nubuck leather and recycled cotton lining and rubber outsoles. On top of all that, the shoes are made with the brand’s “super plush and ultra-supportive” Cloudlift insoles.

11. Gucci Screener Leather Sneakers

For lovers of the brand, Gucci’s Screener leather sneakers are undoubtedly a luxe upgrade for your worn-out kicks. Inspired by classic ’70s shoe styling, this Italian-made pair features white perforated leather and an all-over distressed effect for a vintage aesthetic. They’re adorned with the Italian fashion house’s unmistakable red and green Web stripe and classic double G logo.

12. Rothy’s RS01 sneakers

Although available in men’s sizes, these incredibly comfortable RS01 trainers from Rothy’s are unisex and fit almost any foot. Made from the brand’s signature knitted material, spun from plastic water bottles, the shoes evoke the 80s and come in a range of classic colours. You’ll walk easily with the contoured footbed and grooved rubber outsole made from 20% bio-based materials.

13. Merrell Alpine Sneakers

When planning to hit the trails, Merrell’s Alpine Shoes are some of the best hiking sneakers for women who want to traverse rough terrain in style. These cool retro shoes have a leather and nylon upper, a breathable mesh lining, an EVA midsole for comfort and a rubber outsole for traction. It also features a removable Kinetic Fit contoured sockliner so you can customize your foot support.

14. Everlane ReLeather Court Trainers

Everlane’s ReLeather Court trainers are made from—you guessed it—recycled leather. Also available in men’s sizes and other colors, these stylish steppers are a more eco-friendly take on the brand’s original direct-to-consumer style, thanks to a manufacturing process that requires no dyes, uses less water and creates less waste.

15. Clarks One Rio Run Sneakers

The Un Rio Run sneakers from Clarks are your best bet if you need all-day arch support. They feature an OrthoLite footbed that keeps your feet comfortable and dry, and they come in a range of spring-ready colorways.

16. Saucony Hornet Sneakers

Heritage running brand Saucony is a natural choice if you’re looking for the best retro trainers for women, men and kids. The company’s classic Hornet shoes are inspired by the brand’s 1975 design, but with new materials (such as suede, mesh and a leatherette upper), an EVA midsole and a cushioned footbed to take you where you need to go in style and comfort.