Imagine yourself walking to the mall in search of a new pair of sneakers, only to be disappointed by the tedious offerings at generic stores. Wake up sneakerheads; the days of clunky shoes are over, and sleek white sneakers are here to stay. This is the beginner’s guide you have been waiting for, and it’s here to help you start your very own grail collection.
- Adidas Stan Smith “Soft Tongue”
Not sure whether you want to invest more than $100 in a pair of white sneakers? Worry not; every upscale-hype sneakerhead will tell you that the Stan Smith was the pair that started everything. I’m sure all of you are familiar with this consumer-friendly and extremely versatile iteration of the white sneaker, which comes in three new colorways. The burgundy on white colorway is especially worth mentioning, successfully recalling the revered Common Projects Achilles Retro Low in a similar color, not to mention the uncanny resemblance to the Raf Simons Stan Smith from SS16. Layered with a vintage white sole and gold stamped branding on premium leather, these are an absolute steal at $90.
PHOTO: Adidas
- Nike X J. Crew Killshot 2
One of the most desired budget white sneakers on the market, the Killshot 2s are here to help you transition from winter to spring. For me, these are the perfect summer beaters to kick around in. Effortlessly fusing vintage white leather, gum sole, tan suede, and a sleek silhouette, the Killshots are ready for any outing from the Hamptons to the south of France. Grab a pair at J. Crew for $90 or pick up a pair from the resell market; the choice is yours.
PHOTO: Maxim
- Adidas X Raf Simons Stan Smith
If you’re a fan of the Stan Smith silhouette but are tired of seeing the same sneakers worn by everyone else, you’re not alone. The Raf Stans were my everyday favorites throughout the year, because unlike dressier white sneakers, they still retain the sporty shape that looks great with hoodies and sweatpants. The heel tab and tongue sit higher than dressy alternatives and safely lock your jeans in place, so there’s no need to cuff them. The semi-glossy leather finish gives them a sturdy appearance, and makes them easy to clean with some paper towel and water. Subtle alterations by Raf Simons add just the right amount of flair on high fashion’s iteration of the iconic silhouette. Expect to pay anywhere between $200-400 for these exceptional classics.
PHOTO: Nowhere
- Maison Margiela “Paint Drop” Replica
Can sneakers that are commissioned for an army be fashionable? Absolutely. Maison Margiela infuses high fashion into the practical and comfortable German Army Trainers from the 1970s. Every pair’s unique paint splatter is hand applied by artisans. For a vintage trainer, the Replicas have as much modernity and sleekness as sneakers of yesteryear. Subtle branding graces the tongue and heel tab in the forms of circled numbers of the Maison and a single stitch. A manifestation of a subtle but powerful statement, expect to pay upwards of $400-600 for the sneakers Jackson Pollock would have worn.
PHOTO: Justin Haber
- Common Projects Achilles Low
The champion of hyper-minimalism and adorned by Uniqlo enthusiasts and Scott Disick alike, there is nothing common about the Achilles Low. Featuring an extremely tailored silhouette and almost pointy toe box, the Achilles has no exterior branding and is the epitome of form following function. Not to mention, the leather quality is absolutely pristine. These will feel as at home with your favorite pair of distressed skinny jeans strolling around SoHo as with your best suit at a Michelin starred restaurant. Retail price is held at $410, but you can occasionally find them slightly discounted in stores.
PHOTO: The Idle Man
- Saint Laurent SL01 / SL06 / SL37
This is Parisian chic, Moroccan fantasy, and Californian rock and roll. This is Saint Laurent’s Rive Gauche. Most SL sneakers are exciting everyday alternatives for the Common Projects. The SL01 offers single color designs with striking lines whereas the SL06 channels vintage sneakers by combining off-white soles and color accented heels. A wide range of SL37 models features biker motifs like studs and cheetah. The Common Projects and SL sneakers are two of fashion’s
very best offerings in the realm of sneakers. SL sneakers are priced at $495-595 with occasional discounts.
PHOTO: Justin Haber
COVER PHOTO: Justin Haber
