The best white sneakers for women —what makes them so popular? And what are the best white fashion sneakers to add to your collection this season?
The shoes you wear can make or break an outfit, and while stiletto boots can look a bit controversial with gym shorts as opposed to with a Valentino silk gown, plain white sneakers seem to always just work.
White sneakers are so versatile, they can be easily paired with any item in your closet, from hoodie and sweatpants to a pretty summer dress. Once you get a pair, you’ll find yourself reaching for them over and over again, leaving your other shoes to collect dust.
Nowadays white sneakers are “worn for just about everything except tennis” – Stan Smith
Dolce & Gabbana Portofino sneakers
The Start Of The White Sneaker Trend
The start of the trend could be pinpointed to the relaunch of the Adidas Stan Smiths back in 2014. The iconic white sneaker model had been around for half a decade: in 1964, Adidas launched its very first tennis shoe, which in 1972 would be named after tennis champion Stan Smith, winner of two Grand Slam singles and five doubles.
The original design was green and white, and thanks to Stan Smith’s popularity, the sneakers achieved a cult status in the athletic world. Other iconic models back then included Converse’s Chuck Taylor and Nike’s Air Force One, equally responsible for popularizing white sneakers in the 70s and 80s.
With the relaunch of the Adidas Stan Smiths, the white sneaker crossed the threshold between athletic footwear and fashion. As Smith himself admitted, they are nowadays “worn for just about everything except tennis.”
As consumer demand constantly rises, the trend has rapidly evolved, and today white sneakers are available in a wide range of shapes, textures, and price points. White sneakers have the unique power of going well with everything, elevating streetwear and dressing-down classic outfits.
The Best White Sneakers for Women To Add To Your Collection
If you’re looking for the best white sneakers for women to add to your shoe collection, we’ve hand-picked some of the best high-end white sneaker models to help you out.
Golden Goose Super-Star
Distressed along the sole and featuring the brand’s signature star, the Golden Goose Super-Star is a cult model on the sneaker scene. As with all Golden Goose sneakers, they are handmade (and hand distressed) in Italy, using the highest-quality materials. Super-Stars redefine elegance with their unique, undercover luxury look.
Alexander McQueen Larry
Crafted with premium calfskin leather and made in Italy, the white platform sneakers called “Larry” by British avant-garde label Alexander McQueen feature a chunky rubber sole, a colored heel tab accented with the label’s lettering, and a round toe. Think of them as mood elevators.
Gucci Ace
These iconic Gucci sneakers are typically embellished with the label’s signature red and green web stripe, different patches featuring animals, legendary Disney characters, the house interlocking G logo, and other pop designs. Perfect for a vintage-inspired luxury look.
Off-White Vulcanized
If you’re looking for white fashion sneakers that will stand out from the crowd, look no further. Unmistakably designed by Virgil Abloh, the Vulcanized sneakers come with a zip tie attached, a striped sole, the Off-White signature arrows on the sides, and “THIS” and “THAT” printed at the back. Iconique!!
Givenchy Urban
The Givenchy Urban white sneakers take any urban look to the next level. These laceless low tops feature a wide colored elastic band with the brand logo, and a comfortable leather insole.
Prada Cassetta Wheel
These high-top white fashion sneakers come with a removable nylon pouch, and are embellished with the emblematic enamel Prada triangle. They’re made of regenerated nylon produced from recycled plastic recovered in the ocean, which is why they’re one of the best white sneakers for women in 2021!
Balenciaga Triple S
The Balenciaca Triple S white sneakers are a fashion statement for sure. They distinguish themselves from other bulky sneakers because of their triple-layered outsole, and feature the Balenciaca logo on the side, as well as bicolor laces. An original design from the master of reinvention—Demna Gvasalia.
AUTRY Low
New to the scene, AUTRY’s Low white sneakers are a must-have for vintage lovers. Based on classic tennis shoes from the 1980s, their design is simple and timeless. They feature a retro-looking off-white sole, perforated tongue, and hammered leather details. The insole has extra cushioning for added comfort.
Saint Laurent Court Star
Shine bright (like a diamond) with the Saint Laurent Court Star sneakers. Made in Italy using ultra-premium materials, these stylish white fashion sneakers are decorated with metallic leather stars for a glamorous yet casual look.
Maison Margiela Replica
The Replica slip-on sneakers from Maison Margiela will allow you to be extra comfortable without sacrificing style. These white sneakers are crafted in soft calfskin leather and this season feature an open-back, a lace-up fastening in off-white, and suede details. If you prefer clean and tidy design, with a nod to one of fashion’s greats, these are one of the best white sneakers for women.
Rick Owens x Veja
Rick Owens and Veja united to create a breathable fabric runner, featuring a knit upper made of 100% recycled polyester, and a sole and insole made of a mix of natural and recycled materials, such as sugar cane, rice husk, and banana oil.
Dolce & Gabbana Portofino
(pictured at the top)
Named after the exclusive Italian town of Portofino, these sleek and lightweight sneakers are made of nappa calfskin, and feature a back heel counter with a macro-injected rubber logo. They come in an array of colors and finishes.
Brunello Cucinelli runners
Do sports with style in these ivory suede and nylon runners by Brunello Cucinelli. They are embellished with shiny beads (what Cucinelli calls “Monili”), and the contrasting textures and colors create a perfect mix of elegance and sportiness.
Common Projects Achilles
If you want a sneaker that will never go out of style, this is the one for you. With their simple, minimalistic design and high-quality materials, the Original Achilles sneakers by Common Project have achieved a cult-like status. All white, the only visible branding is the golden lettering on the heel. What those numbers mean?
Hogan Interaction
The Hogan Interaction sneaker is chunky and bold, and will not weigh you down. The oversized outsole is ultralight to cushion your step. The sneaker features the H monogram on the sides and a round toe.
White Sneaker Outfit Inspiration
White fashion sneakers easily complement any look. Do you have a pair, but are still not sure how to style them for maximum effect? Here is some outfit inspiration for you.
White sneakers and sweatpants are of course the classic combination, for a sporty yet effortlessly cool look. Whip out your quarantine loungewear, and, if you want to make a statement, dress it up with bold accessories.
You can also use your white sneakers to dress-down your favorite fancy dress, for a chic and nonchalant look. Keep your accessories simple to keep the dress at the centre of attention.
We think white sneakers look especially good when paired with brightly colored clothes. As a blank canvas, they will match any color or pattern, looking fresh and clean without drawing too much attention. Pair them with a printed long dress such as this fuchsia long shirt dress by Etro, or with a bold jumpsuit.
If mixing and matching feels daunting, try going for a full white look. Pair your sneakers with white jeans and a blazer: it will look chic and put together, and you can draw attention to makeup and accessories.
Discover our wide selection of white sneakers for women, men, and kids.
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About the Author
Alex English is the Head of Content Marketing at italist.com, building on a lifelong passion for fashion and luxury. After publishing a lifestyle blog for nearly ten years and obtaining an MBA in Milan at SDA Bocconi, one of Europe’s top business schools, he joined the italist team in 2019. His work since then has focused on upper-funnel messaging, brand storytelling, establishing italist as a thought leader in the space, and enriching the customer experience on the platform. Find him on LinkedIn.