This spring, the resurgence of white tube socks paired with athletic sneakers has emerged as a striking fashion trend, gaining momentum among high-profile celebrities. Stars such as Bella Hadid and Irina Shayk are at the forefront, revealing a new styling trick that brilliantly merges nostalgia with contemporary flair. This pairing evokes a sense of the past, reminiscent of fitness classes when such footwear was commonplace, yet it is being adapted for far more glamorous settings today.

Bella Hadid exemplifies this trend through her recent public appearances, notably promoting her fragrance line in London. On this occasion, she donned a pair of Nike Air Max 95 trainers in a crisp white and navy design, complemented by scrunched-up white socks. Hadid's outfit transcended the athletic norm with a ruffled polka dot skirt, a relaxed jean jacket, and a stylish croc-embossed Saint Laurent tote—perfectly showcasing her ability to blend sporty elements with chic appeal.

This reimagining of casual attire has roots in iconic fashion history, particularly linked to the late Princess Diana, who frequently styled herself in a mix of comfortable yet fashionable pieces. Known for her affinity for chunky sneakers and relaxed garments, Diana’s casual sophistication laid the groundwork for today’s “wrong shoe” trend, where simplicity meets elegance. This notion is transforming the way modern celebrities like Shayk interpret athletic wear, incorporating it into elaborate outfits that challenge conventional dress codes.

Irina Shayk has also embraced this trend, taking it a step further by pairing sneakers with formal attire. At the recently concluded Cannes Film Festival, she wore a butter yellow dress from Self-Portrait with exposed bra detailing, complemented by Nike Zoom Vomero 5 trainers. This juxtaposition of sporty footwear with luxurious clothing exemplifies Shayk's knack for blending genres, allowing her to navigate between casual and formal effortlessly. In a separate appearance at a Met Gala after-party, she further showcased her innovative approach by pairing a simple white vest and track pants with bedazzled Jimmy Choo x Timberland boots, proving once again that athletic wear can harmonise with high fashion.

The practicality of this footwear trend is notable. The versatility of white sneakers, whether with Coach designs or more formal attire, allows them to transition seamlessly across various settings. This adaptability aligns perfectly with the current desire for ease and comfort in fashion, catering to the needs of the modern lifestyle. The trend also echoes the previous summer's inclination towards combining white socks with dressier shoes, from kitten heels to penny loafers, yet with a sportier pivot that feels fresh.

Looking ahead in 2025, incorporating this trend into one’s wardrobe can be done effortlessly. Emulating Hadid's style, pairing "Dad shoes" with a patterned silk skirt or a vibrant slip dress à la Shayk can yield a chic yet comfortable look. For those desiring an '80s vibe, channeling Princess Diana with biker shorts and oversized sweatshirts evokes a sense of nostalgia while remaining decidedly fashionable.

As this trend gains traction, it underscores a broader cultural shift towards blending comfort with style, a theme prevalent in today’s fashion landscape. Ultimately, this movement reflects not just a seasonal trend but a lasting change in how we define and approach style—merging the traditional boundaries of what constitutes casual and formal attire, all while reviving beloved styles from the past.

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Source: Noah Wire Services