- Business Insider spoke with fashion designers and stylists about winter sneaker trends.
- The professionals said suede and blinged-out sneakers are rising trends for the season.
- However, high-tops are being replaced by sleeker-looking athletic shoes.
For many, sneakers have become a wardrobe staple. Whether you're after a classic, casual look or aiming to make a statement, the options are endless.
That said, styles seem to be constantly evolving, so it can be hard to keep up with all the current trends.
To help you navigate the sneaker scene, Business Insider asked professional stylists and fashion designers which trends are in and out this winter.
Weather-resistant sneakers are practical and fashion-forward.
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, Pilar Scratch recommends opting for a sneaker/boot hybrid.
The celebrity wardrobe stylist told BI that a winter-specific sneaker gives you the cold-weather-ready edge while still offering fashionability.
"Think sturdy, winter-ready soles, waterproof uppers, and extra insulation for those cold, wet days," Scratch said. "These are sneakers you can actually wear outside without feeling like you'll slip and fall on your face."
Make your sneakers pop with unconventional animal prints.
Animal prints have been a prominent status symbol in fashion for centuries. Cheetah, zebra, and leopard remain timeless staples, but some less conventional patterns are also popping up this season.
Kamaria Davis, a footwear designer at Mykos, said prints that mimic Dalmatian spots, deer speckles, and owl feathers are becoming especially popular on sneakers.
To balance out the boldness of the print, the designer suggests focusing on soft, coordinating colors for the rest of your outfit.
Suede offers the perfect cozy vibe.
Suede seems to be taking over all footwear this season, and Lunden Olin II told BI that sneakers are no exception.
The fashion designer and creative director of Looks by Lunden said the material is both cozy and cool right now.
"It's the perfect mix of luxe and laid-back — like a varsity jacket for your feet," Olin said. "Rock 'em with jeans, joggers, or even a tailored suit."
Give your sneakers some bling this winter.
Olin said maximalist sneakers are in. The maximalism trend has been resurging across the fashion and design worlds for the last year or so, and it's a great way to incorporate more self-expression into your look.
"Forget just accessorizing your outfit — your sneakers need love, too," he told BI.
Get creative by adding your own personal touches, like mismatched laces, bows, charms, and even brooches.
On the other hand, platform sneakers have been done to death.
Davis told BI that platform sneakers are overdone. The trend has been prevalent across different footwear styles — heels, boots, loafers — but the bulky look is being pushed aside.
This season, people seem more interested in a narrower silhouette that offers a more polished aesthetic.
An array of popular sneaker brands, from Adidas to Converse, offer flat-sole designs that follow the sleek trend.
Plain white sneakers are being replaced by bolder colors and unique textures.
Olin said it's time to say goodbye to all-white and nude sneakers — to ditch the dull and embrace the vibrant.
The push toward maximalism means bright, bold colors and unique textures are in. Colorful sneakers are also a great way to liven up an outfit on a dreary winter day.
High-tops could be taking a backseat to sleeker styles.
Davis told BI that basketball sneakers and other mid-to-high-top styles are waning in popularity. If you're not into low-top versions of those shoes, consider investing in a pair of "dressletic" sneakers instead.
The designer said the style, which blends the stylish look of dress shoes with the comfort and functionality of athletic sneakers, is especially popular this season.
In addition to following the trends toward sleek, aesthetically pleasing looks, the dressier sneakers can also be a good option for people who are spending more time back in the office.
Trade in your slip-ons for a warmer alternative.
Although classic slip-on sneakers — like Vans — are ideal for warm weather, they can fall short in cooler temperatures and rough winter terrain.
If you're a big fan of the comfort and practicality of a slip-on, though, fear not. Scratch just recommends looking for a fleece-lined version of the shoe.
You can also opt for a sturdier outdoorsy sneaker with a flexible opening for ease of wear.
