03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
The evolution of the white sneaker: how brands from Loewe to Stella McCartney, and celebs from Gwyneth Paltrow to EmRata helped turn the sports shoe into a wardrobe staple bringing easy style to any l
The white trainer – or sneaker, if you prefer – is a fashion essential in wardrobes everywhere, and for good reason. This versatile, everyday shoe has had its moment in the spotlight both on and off the runway thanks to its mass appeal and versatility.
Today you can find a pair to fit any style and budget, from sports and high street brands to designer labels. They've been embraced by celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and
Emily Ratajkowski , and high profile sportsmen like
Roger Federer (the tennis star even created his own collection for cult brand On).
Emily Ratajkowski is chic in white sneakers, out and about in New York last year. Photo: GC Images
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'The white sneaker has become a staple of modern dress. It reflects a cultural change where casual wear isn't just accepted: it signifies a certain freedom,' explain Flavio Girolami and Prathan Peter Poopat, founders of luxury trainer brand Common Projects.
'A well-crafted white sneaker is minimal yet intentional, fitting seamlessly into both relaxed and refined wardrobes. It's a symbol of effortless sophistication, proving that style today is more about personal expression than rigid dress codes,' says the duo.
Common Projects women's white sneakers. Photo: Handout
There was a time when white trainers weren't considered the arbiter of cool. Conservative American brand Keds, which was founded in 1916, has often claimed credit for creating the first pair, which was more sensible than stylish. During the years that followed, white trainers were pigeonholed as a sports essential thanks to their proliferation on tennis and basketball courts. Even Converse's now bestselling Chuck Taylor sneakers debuted at the 1936 Olympics as a shoe worn by the US basketball team.
It wasn't until the 60s and 70s that white 'kicks' – a term coined by streetwear fans – started to transition off the courts. Sportswear brand Adidas made waves with classic styles like its Stan Smith and Superstar models. Chuck Taylor high-tops became a mainstay with cool kids.
Brands like Nike dominated in the 1980s with now cult favourites like its Air Force 1.
Adidas x Stella McCartney at Mytheresa. Photo: Handout
The designer-fication of white trainers took a little longer to catch on. In the 1990s, brands such as
Prada launched sports lines, mainly appealing to men looking for designer shoes for more casual outings. Standard materials like canvas were replaced by more luxe fabrics such as leather, and design details elevated these styles further.
The rise of athleisure in the 2010s empowered many to include white trainers as part of their daily uniform. Women everywhere, from high-powered executives and gallerists, to fashion editors and stylish mums, were snapped styling their pairs in cool and unexpected ways.
