I can still vividly remember the sneakers I got the summer before third grade. They were white and slim, and when I wore them in the dark, they lit up with quirky neon-green monsters. I don’t expect glow-in-the-dark sneakers to be trending anytime soon, but I still wear slim, ‘70s-influenced sneakers today. This style also happens to be a frontrunner for fall’s biggest shoe trend.
If you’re rolling your eyes at the idea of slim sneakers being popular, don’t scroll away just yet. Only a few years ago, gorp-core sneakers that were better suited for a hike took over the streets of Manhattan. Before that, the chunky dad sneaker was everything, even on designer runways. Now, the fashion scales are balancing out once again: Rather than rocking lug-soled sneakers, we’re wearing sleek, low-soled styles.
Leading the trend curve is, of course, Adidas. The Tokyo Shoe (cosigned by Olivia Rodrigo, Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence—the list goes on) was everywhere this spring and summer. The exterior suede detailing is so luxe, and it’s perfect for the transition to fall. The ballet-flat-inspired Samba Janes are also a hit this year, fusing the delicate flat style with a sporty sneaker for the ultimate practical, throw-on-and-go shoe.
And how can I mention Adidas without talking about the beloved Samba? The O.G. slim sneaker never went “out” of style and continues to be a best seller for a reason.
Low, flat-soled sneakers with a sleek exterior are, admittedly, easier to style than a chunkier shoe. They go so well with some of fall’s biggest trends. Polished pencil skirts and skinny cigarette-style pants are set to make a comeback, and it makes sense to style them with a chic, low-key sneaker. Boho-inspired pieces look so stylish with retro sneakers such as the Tokyo or Japan shoes. Adidas also makes a low version of its fan-favorite Gazelle sneakers, and it has a super-low-soled sneaker, the Grand Court. Not to mention, a slim, white sneaker is incredibly versatile—no matter the aesthetic, it’s a capsule-wardrobe must-have.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up some of the best pairs of Adidas’s slim sneakers to shop for fall.
These would go with any outfit.
Adidas
Gazelle Lo Pro Shoes
This sand shade is so luxe.
If you’re unsure about which pair to go with, I recommend these. The flat sole and suede are just that good.
Adidas
Taekwondo Lace Shoes
Fun fact: The Taekwondo style is inspired by traditional shoes worn for the sport.
Adidas
Handball Spezial Shoes
The brown shade is a perfect match for fall.
The pony-hair detail looks so expensive, but it’s still within the brand’s affordable $100-ish price range.
The SL 72 has a slightly lifted sole but remains in the slim-shoe category. It’s a great option for those who aren’t totally sold on the slim shoe but are curious to try it out.
The Country OG silhouette is so retro, and it also comes in a rich-looking pony-hair material.
If you can grab them while they’re still available (run!), the Samba Jane is so unique and cool.
Adidas
Grand Court Lo Shoes
The ultimate low-pro shoe. (It’s literally in the name!)
Adidas
Gazelle Indoor Shoes
I’d style these with black or gray trousers and a cozy sweater once the cooler weather hits.
You can also get the Taekwondo style without laces, and it comes in a handful of chic colors.
There are so many variations of the Samba.
For the maximalists: This limited-edition shade of the Tokyo is also 30% off.
Adidas
Stan Smith ADV Shoes
