Trend: Sporty Chic

Street style blogger  Tommy Ton named them his “Unexpected Trend” of the year for Style.Com: Fashion forward sneakers. They’ve got fashion’s elite swooning. These babies are street smart, youthful and, above all, comfortable. The overall athletic trend was everywhere on the Spring runways, with darlings like Alexander Wang, Fendi  and Band of Outsiders leading the charge.

But like all good things, indulge in moderation. You don’t want to end up looking like Sporty Spice. Here’s our round up of the best of this trend from the ankles down.

Marc Jacobs offers unique kicks featuring wedges and chunky heels in bold color blocked styles.  Runway blog Fashion Etc calls them a “big thrill” which we can “expect to see everywhere next season.”  We’re digging the playful, irreverent feel of these beauties paired with a mini or chic shorts and jacket combo. They may not be the best choice for a pick up basketball game, but you’ll look good court side.

Celine designer Phoebe Philo dropped well-heeled jaws when she closed out her show decked out in basic black and laid back footwear. Take a cue—give a cashmere sweater and chic trouser an “I don’t give a damn” attitude with a easy going but subversively elegant sneaker.

If literal sneakers feel too casual, there’s also a crush of more grown-up looks from designers like Phillip Lim taking inspiration from the iconic elements of the sneaker: the lace up, the fabrications, and the rubber sole. These shoes have a more lady-like silhouette but keep a bit of a street feel.

The athletic trend gives tons of cute pieces to choose from, but its the sneaker’s versatility that makes it a must-have.