The summer is still in full swing, but it’s already time to start planning your autumn wardrobe. While we enjoy sandals and flip-flops on warm days, September brings us back to practical closed-toe footwear. A new pair of sneakers is the easiest way to get ready for the new season.
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However, choosing just one pair today is not so simple. The variety of sneakers has significantly expanded in recent years. Almost every week, new hybrid models emerge, from ballet-sneaker hybrids to sneaker-loafer styles. This can make it easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Perhaps you always stick to Converse, or you prefer athletic designs. Or maybe you’re ready to try out split-toe sneakers. We’re highlighting six models that are set to be particularly popular in autumn 2026.
Converse
The high-top Chuck Taylor sneakers were a staple of the 2010s. Once associated primarily with alternative fashion, they have since been embraced by fashion editors and street style icons. You could opt for a slightly worn pair of Converse that looks like a beloved shoe with years of history. Alternatively, consider brand-new black ones without any signs of wear. Regardless, this nostalgic style will remain relevant for the foreseeable future.
Metallic Sneakers
Footwear with a metallic sheen has been increasingly featured on runways lately. Dior Couture’s Autumn-Winter 2026/2027 show presented silver heels reminiscent of Cinderella’s glass slippers. Chanel’s collection included shimmering loafers, and Miu Miu showcased athletic sneakers with a metallic finish. If you’re not quite ready for dazzling pumps, start with sneakers. They offer the simplest way to incorporate metallic footwear into your everyday wardrobe. Consider classic Onitsuka Tigers or silver Adidas Superstars. Such a pair can elevate even the most basic outfit.
Elegant Leather Sneakers
If you tend to favor classic shoes over athletic wear, elegant leather sneakers are worth considering. They echo traditional footwear styles, sometimes resembling sturdy loafers or brogues, yet retain distinct athletic characteristics. Notable examples include Miu Miu sneakers with multiple lacing rows and Loewe models featuring leather detailing.
Streamlined Athletic Sneakers
Sleek, low-profile athletic sneakers on thin soles have been trending for several years. The Nike Moon Shoe is a prime example, worn by stars like Dua Lipa, Rihanna, and Jacob Elordi. Their minimalist design makes them comfortable and versatile, complementing a variety of outfits. Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman designed the Nike Moon Shoe in the 1970s as lightweight running footwear, but it later gained popularity beyond the athletic realm. For Spring-Summer 2025, Jacquemus also presented their interpretation of this iconic silhouette.
Satin Sneakers
While the peak popularity of balletcore may have passed in the early 2020s, its aesthetic continues to influence fashion. If you’re not ready to let go of that influence, consider satin sneakers. They are particularly fitting if you occasionally find yourself re-watching “Black Swan.” These models look best in soft pastel hues. Satin sneakers bring a touch of lightness to the autumn wardrobe, which typically features heavier fabrics, voluminous pieces, and earthy tones.
Split-Toe Sneakers
Split-toe sneakers might not be for everyone. They are ideal for those who want to evoke the feeling of a weekend spent in the mountains rather than waiting in line at an outdoor pool. If you’re keen to try this trend, start with the Nike Air Rift. It’s one of the most recognizable and easiest-to-style split-toe models. Its distinctive design is unusual enough to draw attention and garner compliments, even at a natural wine bar.
Based on material from vogue.co.uk