Top 10 Chic Contemporary Sneakers for Spring

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

I don’t understand when stores group together minimally related pieces to create a story. The concept is good in the abstract, but rarely comes across as inspiring. But, unsurprisingly, Nordstrom gets it right more often than not.

Just this week Nordstrom pulled together fashion sneakers from high-end contemporary and designer labels to create a grouping of 132 ultra-chic sneaks, each one of which is more fabulous than the next. Not only did the theme make me want to buy every pair – so, clearly it served their retail purposes – it also got me excited for the next wave of last year’s skater sneaker craze.

I carefully sorted through the offerings and pulled out my top ten picks. Remember, Nordstrom offers free shipping and returns, so you get a bit of a break to offset the cost of a big name label pick. Let me know what you think…

The woven leather effect on these sneakers is second only to the three-strip Velcro closure in terms of uniqueness. They’re also available in black woven and natural canvas.

Rag and Bone Kent Low Top Sneaker


→ Buy the Rag & Bone Kent Low Top Sneaker, $395.00


These laid-back black leather sneakers get a punch from studs and white leather details.

Saint Laurent Studded Skate Slip-On Sneaker


→ Buy the Saint Laurent Studded Skate Slip-On Sneaker, $895.00


There’s not much in my wardrobe that would vibe right with these pale blue-grey suede slip-ons, but I can appreciate that they have an artistic flair.

3.1 Phillip Lim Morgan Low Top Sneaker


→ Buy the 3.1 Phillip Lim Morgan Low Top Sneaker, $375.00


The contrast between croc-embossed and smooth leather creates a funky look that still feels luxe.

Vince Banler Leather Slip-On Sneaker


→ Buy the Vince Banler Leather Slip-On Sneaker, $295.00


Although the point is up for debate, I maintain that Prada started the whole luxury slip-on skater sneaker trend. They’re back in the action for spring 2015 with this classic style, now available in six posh shades.

Prada Slip-On


→ Buy the Prada Slip-On, $490.00


These lambskin slip-ons have a much more lightweight, delicate look than others in this category. It’s the designer version of Keds to Prada’s designer version of Vans.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Lambskin Leather Slip-On Sneaker


→ Buy the Marc by Marc Jacobs Lambskin Leather Slip-On Sneaker, $178.00


The perforations in these off-white sneakers help make these slip-ons more spring-like than many other options. But, if you must, they are also available in black.

Rag and Bone Kent Perforated Leather Slip-On


→ Buy the Rag & Bone Kent Perforated Leather Slip-On, $295.00


The prize for craziest take on the trend goes to these Kate Spade slip-ons, which seem to be crafted from textured cork. Bonus points for the hot pink rubber sole.

Kate Spade Serena Slip-On Sneaker


→ Buy the Kate Spade Serena Slip-On Sneaker, $175.00


I love the utilitarian cool of these Helmut Lang sneakers. They are definitely my personal favorites.

Helmut Lang Slip-On Leather Sneaker


→ Buy the Helmut Lang Slip-On Leather Sneaker, $360.00


Precious pink mesh is such a fun way to embrace the sporty trend from the spring runways. I’d pair these with an otherwise grey/ black/ neutral outfit for added pop.

Joie Kidmore Slip-On Sneaker


→ Buy the Joie Kidmore Slip-On Sneaker, $190.00