Latest news with #SimoneRocha
Refinery29
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Refinery29
From Mesh To Mary Janes — Ballet Sneakers Are *The* Shoe Of The Summer
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. What do you get when you combine two beloved fashion items? Sometimes greatness (see: the skort, the jort, and the entire concept of athleisure), but often it results in bizarre flash-in-the-pan moments (remember the coatigan? No, neither did I until writing this piece). Thankfully, the latest hybrid trend taking over the fashion world sits firmly in the former camp. Say hello to the sneakerina, a mash-up that balances all the signature grace and poise of the classic ballet shoe with the comfort and grip of your favorite functional trainer. It's a dream come true for those of us with fond memories of the 2010s twee phenomenon, but an adult need for more arch support. Unsurprisingly, we can thank the queen of high femme fashion, Simone Rocha, for kickstarting the sneakerina trend back in spring/summer 2020 with her 'ballet tracker' platforms. Since then, she's been joined by both luxury designers and sports brands alike — from kitten heel sneakers at Miu Miu to satin-topped, trek-soled Aura flats at Rombaut, to sold-out collaborations between Sandy Liang and Salomon, Cecilie Bahnsen and Asics, and Onitsuka Tiger and Patou. This year, the trend has truly exploded, fueled by several much-hyped launches: Adidas' Samba Mary Jane and lace-up Taekwondo Mei, Puma's Speedcat Ballet, and Louis Vuitton's LV Sneakerina. According to fashion search engine Lyst, searches for 'sneakerinas' are up 1300%, while StockX, an online marketplace for sneakerheads, has seen a 119% year-on-year increase for 'ballerina'. The coolest celebrities are also fans — both Bella Hadid and Charli XCX have been spotted in VIVAIA's satin Sneakerinas, while Chloë Sevigny is a repeat wearer of Ecco's Biom C-Trails (a hiking shoe base with ballerina-style laces). There are many different variations of the trend to satisfy every style — from dainty, satin slipper designs with grippy rubber soles to sportier versions with mesh panels, top-stitched detailing, elastic straps, turbo-charged platforms, eyelet lacing, and toe caps. Naturally, these come on the foot of last year's coquette trend and, before that, the rise of balletcore, but they reimagine the hyper feminine look to be more functional. These shoes are made for city streets and long days on your feet. Essentially, it's the viral 'wrong shoe' theory in motion, wherein you purposely wear shoes that might be considered antithetical to your outfit to create a more interesting look. This time, though, it's the shoe itself that is the contradiction. Have I convinced you yet? If not, perhaps this selection will — all the best sneakerina shoes on the market at every price point. Mary Jane Ballet Sneakers Prim and proper or punk and platform, the humble Mary Jane has had quite the moment in recent years, and that isn't changing anytime soon, thanks to these sporty trainer-infused styles. Puma's Speedcat Ballerina in particular is the third buzziest product of early 2025, according to the Lyst Q1 Index Report, and has the seal of approval from Dua Lipa and Emily Ratajkowski. This design is the perfect balance of both styles: a classic ballerina silhouette adorned with sporty, racing shoe signatures (complete with an embroidered Puma logo). Opt for the silver colorway to tick off another key 2025 sneaker trend. For a similar vibe, I found plenty of slim-fit options, from the luxury (Miu Miu) to the more affordable (Bershka). Alternatively, if you prefer a chunkier shoe, Ash's Rolls Sneakers come out on top. They're just like your typical techy, Y2K dad sneaker, but with that strappy, Mary Jane twist. Lace-Up Ballet Sneakers If the name doesn't give it away, Adidas' Taekwondo Mei Shoe (first introduced in 1988) is a reinterpretation of the original martial arts footwear. Functionally, taekwondo and ballerina shoes have always been very similar: slim-fitted with a slightly pointed toe, made with super-soft leather that molds to the foot, and designed to keep your soles close to the floor. Where this version differs from a modern-day ballet flat is that the rubber outsole better protects your feet from the ground, and the slightly padded, textile-lined insole adds more cushioning and support. Throw in the combination of lace-up fastenings and the brand's iconic three-stripe design, and you have the ultimate all-occasions shoe that works equally well with a dainty dress for date night or with sweats when running errands. Adidas isn't the only destination for stylish, functional lace-up styles. From Axel Arigato's chunky stompers to Lazy Oaf's delicate treads, there are options out there for everyone — and you don't have to opt for a lace-up-the-leg look either. JW Pei has created a stylish alternative that even the biggest ballet flat skeptic could love. Mesh Ballet Sneakers Mesh footwear was at its peak last summer, and it isn't going away soon. This season, the light, airy, and breathable style lends itself perfectly to the sporty sneakerina trend. Unlike 2024's sheer organza versions, many of this year's designs feature a heavier, net-like weave. Platform Ballet Sneakers Adopting the statement soles and extra inches you usually find on chunky Y2K sneakers and utilitarian trainers, these sneakerina shoes give you all the boost you need, without compromising on comfort. Satin Ballet Sneakers Satin ballet shoes are perhaps the most archetypal of the style — conjuring up images of prima ballerinas performing in full costume as princesses, swans, and sugar plum fairies. It's a tactile fabric that nods to luxury and glamour, and when paired with practical, sporty elements, it creates a pronounced juxtaposition. When choosing your outfit, let these satin sneakerina shoes do the work for you — they'll make a statement no matter what.
Fashion United
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion United
Women's footwear SS26 trend predictions
Footwear manufacturing is predominately done in China these days and as of this writing, the costs of tariffs importing into the USA are unknown. However, we now know what consumers are looking for and what will most likely be on offer for SS26. In keeping with other parts of the fashion industry, macro trends in footwear have slowed down in recent seasons. As we have witnessed recently, SS26 themes in clothing signal a nostalgia for past stylings, and in particular, the the 'preppy' looks made popular in the 1980s. Looking even further back, historical romance driven by popular TV shows like Bridgerton and the Gilded Age has engendered an interest in exquisite materials and textures. On the other hand, as travel to the East becomes more popular, consumers are gravitating towards that which is earthy and raw in the natural world. Finally, gender fluidity still resonates, with women donning menswear looks. The appropriate footwear is needed to accompany these trends in apparel. Dancing Feet Inspiration for these ballet-influenced slippers comes from the Regency dancing shoes of TV show Bridgerton, last year's micro trend ballet-core and the stylings of footwear designers like Sandy Liang. Materials will include soft leather, coated knit and metallic thread in a variety of colors. Credits: Acne Studio SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Simone Rocha SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Esber SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Alainpaul SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Borrowed From the Boys Gender fluid dressing continues to resonate, and along with it, menswear-inspired footwear styles. For SS26 they get a feminine twist. For example, a lace-up can be rendered in a transparent mesh material. Penny loafers and monk shoes can get interesting color washes and updated details such as off-kilter toe caps and low backs. Credits: Kent Curwen SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Loewe SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Prada SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Victoria Beckham SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight The Yacht Club Last year's preppy looks move forward into SS26 to include boating classics like deck shoes. Trending sneakers continue to be low riders. Techno thongs look best when color-blocked. Jelly' and other similar textures will be popular. Credits: Fiorucci SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Chloé SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Miu Miu SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Rave Review SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Craft Work Consumers are gravitating toward artisanal looking strappy summer sandals reminiscent of their Asian travels. Materials include detailed leather and vegan leather, woven straw and raffia in natural or spicy colors. Soles are either flat or on narrow platforms. Credits: Elie Saab SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Alberta Ferretti SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Ulla Johnson SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Zimmermann SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight
Fashion United
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion United
Cultural shifts shaping spring summer 26 footwear
As we look toward Spring Summer 2026, four distinct footwear directions emerge that will respond to evolving consumer needs and cultural shifts. These directions blend emotional resonance with functional design, offering footwear that honors both heritage traditions and contemporary innovation while addressing the desire for authentic expression. Author Written by Anush Mirbegian, Director of Footwear and Accessories at Future Snoops Sandy Liang SS25 Credits: Via Future Snoops An emerging Neo-Romantic movement celebrates emotionally driven design as consumers seek reassurance in human artistry and skill amid an AI backlash. This cultural sentiment drives demand for pieces that leave an emotional impression. Translating this sense of romance at a market level, brands like Simone Rocha and Sandy Liang have introduced bridal-focused footwear and accessories to younger, fashion-forward consumers, while men's runway themes show a continued move away from heavy streetwear aesthetics toward renewed romance. Key silhouettes include flatforms, sweetened ballet flats, retro suede trainers, and embroidered desert boots. Design details add a charming sweetness through satin rosettes on square-shaped toes or as EVA snap-on elements. Bows in various shapes and sizes adorn in multiples or act as trompe l'oeil embellishments. Suedes and leathers are supple and softened, rendered in calming neutral tones, with pink emerging as a driving key hue for this direction. Fendi SS25 Credits: Via Future Snoops Consumers increasingly recognize the destabilizing impacts of production processes and seek products crafted by people and systems that work in harmony with nature. The ascension of AI and concerns around digital well-being welcome a shift toward permanency and slow, low-tech solutions. A return to respected artisanal wisdom comes through in techniques like weaving, braiding, and embroidery. Key silhouettes include plaited leather sandals, woven strap trekking sandals, and embroidered slip-ons. Weaving extends into full grain leather crafted into open work uppers, or hemp and cotton blends creating ribbons and tapes for details. Strands of carved beads layer onto active-inspired footwear, while centuries-old natural grass jute braiding yields espadrille soles. Chloe SS25 Credits: Via Future Snoops Social media overwhelm and tech distractions have left consumers emotionally numb, while growing global crises encourage an emotional reconnection. The elements serve as both healing metaphor and modality to explore awareness, reinforcing the need for balancing practices like mindful self-regulation. This direction demonstrates the influence of natural forces in footwear through silhouettes like jelly flats and injection molded slides. Water-friendly recycled and renewable materials include bio-based EVA derived from sugarcane and Bloom, an innovative algae-biomass material. Moiré watermarked silks add opulent touches to linings and sandal straps, while gradient-effect crystals and glitter PVC lend glints of sparkle to footwear. Isabel Marant SS25 Credits: Via Future Snoops As social media continues to push culture to the middle, a counter-resistance emerges along the fringes, placing the focus on uniqueness and the rise of subcultures. Consumers are drawn to novel ideas and ways of expressing themselves. Small brands like Tigra Tigra represent this new wave of female-led, craft-centered brands that reimagine tradition. Escapism and sensual indulgence drive design that plunges into hedonistic territory. This manifests through silhouettes like beaded ankle straps, embellished heels, basket woven loafers, and animal printed trainers. Surfaces and details harness summer's sensuality through leathers coated with glossy finishes or crafted with peek-through laser cut perforations. Embellishments including knotting and beading are layered for ultimate visual impact. Lush tropical florals inspire saturated color combinations, visually representing the contrast of embracing pleasure during somber times. These four footwear directions for Spring Summer 26 reflect a broader cultural shift toward authenticity, craftsmanship, and emotional connection, addressing consumer needs ranging from romantic sentiment and artisanal wisdom to elemental healing and hedonistic escapism.
Vogue
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue
Jennifer Lawrence Doubles Down on the Sneakerina Shoe Trend
Jennifer Lawrence is usually an early adopter of footwear trends. As the long-held title holder of poster girl for quiet luxury (up there with Sofie Richie Grainge and the Olsens of course), she's ushered in the heatwave-friendly and now summer staple mesh ballet flat, pre-empted the jelly shoe revival, and incorporated some it-girl sneakers into her own J. Law style formula. While it took her a little while longer to experiment with the sneakerina trend, it looks like it's becoming a regular in her current summer shoe rotation—-and for good reason. Stepping out in Midtown in New York City, the Die, My Love actor made her second sartorial attempt at sneakerina styling, with a pair of black and cream-soled Wales Bonner velcro shoes. The Mary Jane style, with its thick embossed strap and Vibram sole, is also a perfect post partum shoe for Lawrence, who recently gave birth to her second child shared with partner Cooke Moroney. Photo: Backgrid It's a shoe hybrid that's proliferated on the runways and in drops from across the fashion spectrum: Simone Rocha, Cecilie Bahnsen, Louis Vuitton et al. The 'sneakerina'—a portmanteau of 'sneaker' and 'ballerina,' for the uninitiated—as a name, really, can be applied to any of the more feminine-shaped sneakers of late. Beloved by a more subversive and bold fashion set that includes Chloë Sevigny and Amelia Gray, it's a chaotic, polarizing footwear mash-up that Lawrence shows to be more versatile and relaxed than you'd first think. The rest of the outfit was textbook Jennifer Lawrence for summer. The actor wore an oversized white t-shirt with a Picasso print, a cobalt blue cardi tied around her shoulders (a beloved, transeasonal color), and loose primary red trousers. As for accessories, she forewent a deep dive into her enviable collection of vintage it-bags in favor of a cream knit tote bag, and added a black bucket hat when she'd usually don a novelty baseball cap. Has Oasis summer and the Britpop revival been an influence, perhaps? While Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner stick to the heeled sandal hybrid, Selena Gomez styles suits and thongs, and the Olsens outfit everyone in The Row's viral Dune flip-flops, the sneakerina brigade has a newfound member in Jennifer Lawrence. So if you haven't yet, now's your chance to step into the summer shoe trend seems confident is here to stay.
Elle
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
Topshop Is Returning To The Runway — Everything You Need To Know About The Big Relaunch
Topshop's highly anticipated comeback this summer is the launch on every Millennial's lips. Luckily for us, it's kickstarting the new era with a bang — and we're all invited to celebrate. This August, the beloved high street retailer will return to the catwalk for the first time in seven years, staging a blockbuster fashion show in London to reveal its AW25 collection. For now, the location is top secret, but Topshop said it would be a 'landmark' setting in the capital. The show will be followed by a street party, complete with live music, DJ sets and surprise guests from the London creative community. Both events will be open to the public, the brand said. The looks from the show will be available to purchase on the newly re-launched website. Fans can expect to shop fashion-forward takes on new season outerwear, tailoring and denim pieces from both Topshop and Topman, along with a sneak preview of more looks set to drop later in the year. As the first high street brand to stage catwalk shows during London Fashion Week, Topshop was a pioneer of bridging the gap between high fashion and the British high street. The brand first partnered with the British Fashion Council in 2003 to sponsor its NEWGEN talent programme — which counts Simone Rocha, Christopher Kane, Erdem, and Dior creative director Jonathan Anderson among its alumni — before joining the official schedule with a catwalk show in 2005. In its heyday, its fashion shows were staple events on the London Fashion Week calendar, with names like Adowa Aboah and Jourdan Dunn gracing the runway, as celebrities like Kate Moss, Alexa Chung, Kendall Jenner and Lily Allen sat front row. In line with Topshop's roots of discovering and championing next generation talent, the brand is hosting an open casting to recruit models for the show, in collaboration with Wilhelmina Models, with applications open until August 4. See you on the catwalk! ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.
