Prix Kicks
Earlier this week, The Independent declared that designer denim is no longer a lure for luxury shoppers—rather, “trainers are the new jeans.” From Mark Ronson’s Gucci designs to Jimmy Choo’s kick line, this streetwear staple has gone high fashion. Here, some leading trends out of the Fall ’10 sneaker flurry. —Leslie Shiers
Love (Luv)
noun, verb
1. A profoundly tender, passionate affection for another
The urban-punk theme blazes across all shoe categories for fall, but hardware on sneakers gives the silhouette special rock ‘n’ roll appeal. From the sleek statement cuff on these Stamp’d lace-ups to Affliction’s take-no-prisoners rugged canvas hi-tops with grommet-covered straps, there’s a perfectly embellished version out there for hip-hop dandies, acid rockers and grunge die-hards alike.
Warm & Fuzzy
Even less-flashy kicks aren’t coming up short on style. Designers are amping up the autumnal appeal of simple styling by adding materials people seek out on chilly days. Lottusse’s answer is a smartly weathered leather sneaker lined in cozy fur, while Swear London’s hi-top features boiled wool—a trend we’ve spotted in many forthcoming men’s and women’s styles.
Mad for Plaid
A perennial fall go-to, plaid fabrics and graphic treatments have trickled down from ready-to-wear to footwear, and don’t expect the hipster set to abandon "lumberjack chic" anytime soon. With its recent cold-weather addition—the botas—TOMS delivers a fuzzy interior and bright, flannel upper for a fun, laidback style. Skechers goes urban with a mix of plaid, denim accents and pops of flashy red.
