A lot of trainers look the same right now. And it’s not necessarily a case of direct imitation: there’s a noticeable retro mood sweeping the sneaker scene, which has prompted an influx of slimline styles featuring skinny soles and rounded toes. While multiple brands have followed this trending silhouette blueprint, Dries Van Noten’s takes – rendered in mesh, suede and leather, available in various colourways and finishes – have come up trumps among fashion-leaning celebrities, including Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Jennie. Testament to their universal appeal, Harry Styles and Jacob Elordi have also shown allegiance – the latter has several pairs.
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Sportswear giants tend to dominate the sneaker market – Sambas, Mostros and Total 90s have, of course, been recent hits for Adidas, Puma and Nike respectively. But every so often, a designer trainer comes along and captivates both fashion insiders and regular folk alike: Balenciaga’s Triple S and Alexander McQueen’s exaggerated-sole trainers come to mind. Inspired by “’70s marathon spirit”, Dries Van Noten’s new proposition brings an elevated feel to everyday trainers, which are brought to life with Italian-made craftsmanship and premium materials. The brand’s wider footwear offering reveals more directional styles, complete with angular heels and embellishments, but the trainers utilise simple yet subtly playful design.
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In London, the trainers look right at home in the new flagship perched on the corner of Hanover Square, defined for its custom interiors, mesmerising speaker system and art lining the walls. Upstairs, they’re interspersed with the womenswear, while in the menswear-dedicated basement, customers will find them just beyond the vinyl corner. Indeed, a truly unique shopping experience – for trainers, especially. Here’s to the new era of enduring designer sneakers.
