Fashion loves a Frankenshoe. That is, a freaky shoe that combines two or more silhouettes into one chaotic hybrid. Sneaker Ballet Flats, sneaker heels, cowboy Croc boots, and flip-flop stilettos have all made waves. Last year, sneaker heels came alive, thanks to brands like Sneex. We have also seen recent mash-ups that push the boundaries of style and function. When it comes to hot shoes, designers are in agreement: The stranger and more unlikely the pairing, the better! The latest polarizing style to hit the scene, however? It has a sleek, comfort-first appeal.
Meet the “sneakerina”—a new sneaker-slash-ballet flat that is quickly becoming a hot celebrity-approved trend. Yes, you read that right: The unexpected footwear style combines the padded rubber outsole of a sneaker with the elegant, rounded satin vamp of a ballerina flat—sometimes even complete with the ribbon lacing up the ankle, too.
The sneakerina was seen all over Fashion Month. At Simona Rocha, satin low-tops were given rounded toes and ribboned laces—perfect for a ballerina who is running late to her performance of Swan Lake. At Wales Bonner, there were sneakerinas for men: The rounded silhouette even featured a dainty little Mary Jane trap. Chic. On April 4, Louis Vuitton will also launch its very own Sneakerina, a luxurious new ballet sneaker that features the house’s signature monogram pattern.
Celebrities are already on board with the look. Actor Chloë Sevigny recently styled her lacy black pair with socks and a sporty tee and gym shorts, while model Amelia Gray wore her pink sneakerinas with a white shirt dress and a fur coat—a more uptown approach. It’s a surprisingly versatile design, given its specificity: You can style them with jeans and a tee, and they’re just as good with a summery slip dress.
Listen, we get it: A sneakerina may sound like a polarizing style that’s daunting to pull off. But there is something undeniably cool about them. Where a sneaker can often be sporty or dressed-down, the sneakerina reads more polished and put-together—all while never sacrificing the comfort of a plushy rubber sole. Best of both worlds! Plus, why would you want to wear regular ol’ sneakers or ballet flats, when you can step out in a more unpredictable shoe style? After all, 2025 is the year of standing out—not blending in.
Also read:
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6 trendy sneakers that are perfect to wear with flared jeans
16 Summer sandals that will work for your vacation wardrobe and days in the city
