The 17 Best Designer Sneakers of 2024 Worth a Splurge, According to Experts

From Loewe to Gucci to The Row, the best designer sneakers are always worth the investment: Each pair is crafted from quality materials that last for years, and each has a timeless, easy-to-style design. The only issue? There are more pairs to decide between than there is space (or budget) to try them all.

Fortunately, as a shopping writer with an extensive sneaker collection— from trendy new sneakers to classically cool white sneakers—I'm here to help with a thoroughly researched guide to the best designer sneakers for everyday wear. I also turned to Kendall Becker, Fashion Director at Trendalytics, to answer your most important questions about designer sneakers, plus break down the sneaker silhouettes that are both trending and timeless.

Trending Designer Sneakers

Historically, designer sneakers have been associated with out-there, chunky silhouettes, color combinations, and patterns. Many options from brands like Gucci are adorned with silver glitter or metallic logo motifs. However, more subdued designer sneakers have been trending in recent months. "Within the designer sneaker market, minimalism with an interesting twist has been a leading driver of trends," says Becker.

The shift toward more minimal designer sneakers manifests in muted pastels and classic neutrals. "We’re seeing monochromatic color palettes reign, especially in softer color palettes––think beige, cream, light blue, buttercream yellow," says Becker, citing brands like The Row and Loewe as prime examples of the look. While cool white sneakers are always a go-to, selecting something in an off-white shade feels fresh for the season ahead. Or, going for an even darker color like chocolate brown or an all-black sneaker can set you up with a work sneaker that coordinates with every suit and dress in your arsenal.

Another designer sneaker trend to look out for? "Designers are playing with unlikely material for sneakers––popular choices include suede or raffia depending on seasonality; but most importantly, mesh is the coolest update here as seen by Chloé and Bottega Veneta," Becker says. Keep tabs on the Chloé Nama Platform Sneaker, which has been popular for over a year and has been reviewed by Marie Claire's Fashion Director, Sara Holzman. The sneaker features netted detailing and comes in a variety of different color combinations.

Read on for the 17 best designer sneakers earning Marie Claire editors' recommendations. Whether you choose a more minimal style or a logo-embellished pair, you're getting sneakers that are worth the splurge (because you'll wear them nearly every day, of course).

The Best Designer Sneakers

Golden Goose Ball Star Low Top Sneaker

I couldn't have a designer sneaker roundup without a pair of silver sparkly—yet wearable!—Golden Goose sneakers. These intentionally worn-in white picks have a leather footbed that molds to your feet for optimal comfort. They're currently available in sizes ranging from an EU 36 through an EU 42—roughly US women’s sizes 6 through 12 without half sizes. The brand recommends sizing up if you’re in-between sizes. I personally love these sneakers for their leather footbed which only gets more comfortable with wear and doesn’t require a painful breaking-in period.  

Customer Review: "These sneakers are incredible. Comfortable right out of the box. A very flattering look for every outfit. Only whole sizes so size up if you are in between. You won't regret this purchase." — Nordstrom 

Chloé Lauren Low Top Sneaker

Beauty Editor Samantha Holender has loved these Chloé sneakers for a long time now. “I've had them for a good three years and, while they took a hot minute to break in, they have now become my most comfortable shoe,” she says. “The sweet scallop detailing gives the sneaker a feminine touch and sets them apart from the wide sea of white sneakers on the market.” You can shop them in EU sizes 35 through 42, roughly women’s sizes 5 through 12—but no half sizes. Also, it's important to note that there is a breaking-in period with these. 

Customer Review: "I normally wear 8.5- 9, I ordered a 9 and it was perfect. They felt stiff when I first put them on, but after one wear they were broken it. These are my new favorites." — Bloomingdale's 

Prada Downtown Patent Leather Low-Top Sneakers

The patent leather finish on this pair of sneakers from Prada gives them a slightly more formal look compared to other sneakers made from canvas or leather. They have a removable insole for added comfort and come in US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes. The retailer notes that these run true to size, so you should have no issue finding your perfect fit. With a sleek, all-white design, they're just low-key enough to wear on your daily commute and at your desk.

Customer Review: "Not only did these fit without having to use a shoe insert, they were comfortable right from day 1. Mostly wore them with summery skirts but they would be cute with jeans or cropped pants as well. I purchased a size 37.5 which was the perfect length relative to my usual size. Note: part of the shoe is white patent leather but in no way looks "flashy"." — Nordstrom

Chloé Nama Platform Sneaker

Marie Claire's Style Director Sara Holzman reviewed these Chloé Nama sneakers for Marie Claire’s Worth It column when they first launched a few years ago. They've remained an editor and reader favorite ever since. Available in a whopping ten colorways, including this pastel combination and an all-white version, you can shop them in US sizes 5 through 12. Sadly, they don’t come in half sizes, but the brand does note that shoppers should go one half-size up if they’re between sizes. 

Customer Review: "I normally go towards neutrals but love this fun shoe. Fit was [true to size] for me as a size eight and medium-width shoe. The tongue of the shoes was a sheerer mesh, which I didn’t anticipate but didn’t mind. They are very comfortable to walk in, and I could wear them all day. I was worried they would be too bright, but for me, they were perfect." — Nordstrom

Comme Des Garcons PLAY x Converse Red Sole High Top

This pair of canvas high tops from Converse and cool-girl brand Comme Des Garcons PLAY is a great way to dip your toe into the world of designer sneakers while still maintaining a budget. Priced at under $200, they're attainable yet elevated. They're just as comfortable as your favorite pair of high-tops, but have a designer twist courtesy of the red heart logo and bright red sole. Available in both white and black, you can shop them in women's sizes 5 through 14. 

Tory Burch Howell Court Sneaker

Coming in at just under $200, this pair of Tory Burch Howell Court Sneakers is a great way to elevate your spring and summer wardrobe. The all-white colorway is accented with a subtle metallic Tory Burch logo on the heel. These are available in sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes. Dozens of five-star reviews say that they run true to size, are lightweight, and are easy to style. These are a great option if you’re looking for one pair of sneakers that you can wear for just about any occasion, from the office to a day off.

Customer Review: "Comfortable, great fit, nice. Love all Howells. Have 6 pairs of them in different colors and design!!!" — Tory Burch

Alexander McQueen Oversized Metallic Leather Platform Sneakers

These otherwise all-white sneakers from Alexander McQueen were first released in 2016 and have been a mainstay in the designer sneaker world ever since. They're outfitted with gold detailing—a great way to tie all your summer accessories together. Plus, they're a perfect way to incorporate the metallics trend into your rotation without investing in an entirely new shoe wardrobe or stepping out of your sneaker comfort zone. Some reviewers note they run small but are available in half sizes, making finding your perfect fit a dream. 

Gucci Embroidered Ace Sneakers

If you’ve been a longtime Gucci fan and haven’t invested in a pair of designer sneakers from the brand, what are you waiting for? From the iconic red-and-green combo to the sweet gold-embroidered bees on the sides, this colorful pick is certainly made for the label's most dedicated fans. They’re available in full and half-sizes from an EU 34 to an EU 42. The brand notes that they run large and that going one size down may be the best option. Wear them with an otherwise classic outfit for an exaggerated pop of color. 

Prada Double Wheel Low-Top Sneakers

Prada's recognizable triangle logo is perfectly emblazoned on this pair of two-tone platform sneakers made from recycled polyester with a rubber sole. Think of this pair as the option that balances your typical chunky sneakers and slender, trendier styles. They’re available to shop in several colors, including a sweet baby blue hue that’s perfect for summer, a very Barbiecore baby pink, and this all-time favorite black option. One thing to note: They are not available in half-sizes. 

The Row Owen Leather & Mesh Sneaker

If, like me, you’re trying to incorporate neutral shades other than black into your wardrobe, consider shades of brown. The Owen Sneakers by The Row—the definitive brand for shoppers obsessed with quiet luxury—are lightweight yet durable thanks to their knitted upper and a rubberized sole. The sleek silhouette is slightly ‘90s inspired, and the chocolate colorway will look great with your summer whites as well as your usual all-black outfits come fall and winter. 

Loewe Flow Runner Mix Leather Sneakers

These best-selling, tan-and-black sneakers from Loewe continue to be popular amongst fashion insiders for 2024. They’re neutral-toned, come in a summery color other than white (making them a bit easier to style in the fall and winter weather!), and are made from a buttery suede material that looks super luxe. While they aren’t available in half-sizes, you can shop them in EU women’s shoe sizes 35 through 41—roughly a US size 5 through a US size 11. 

Isabel Marant Beth Sneakers

There’s no need to mess around with tricky laces when you buy this pair of sneakers from Isabel Marant. The brand’s classic Beth Sneakers instead fasten with three easy-on, easy-off velcro straps and are made from a super soft white leather upper with a comfortable rubber sole. Reviewers say they do tend to run a tad small and recommend going for one whole size up, so keep that in mind when shopping, especially considering that they aren’t available in half sizes. 

Vince Warren Platform Sneaker

If you're looking for a tremendous slip-on designer sneaker option priced at under $300, this pair from Vince is excellent. They're currently available in a few neutral colors other than classic white, like black and a blush pink hue. This pair is bound to be comfortable for all-day wear, courtesy of the sturdy platform and suede upper design. The brand notes that these sneakers run true-to-size and are available in US women's shoe sizes 5 through 13 and include half-sizes.  

Customer Review: "This is my 6th pair of Vince slip-on sneakers, and I can't get enough! I have found that while the suede ones run true to size, the leather runs 1/2 size big. I returned my regular 6.5s in all the leather sneakers. Perfect to slip on with jeans and leggings for stylish and comfortable on-the-go wear. Highly Recommend!" — Nordstrom 

Maison Margiela Black Leather Tabi Low-Top Sneakers

This pair of best-in-class black sneakers from Maison Margiela check all the right boxes. They're easy to style, keep clean (courtesy of the colorway), and are great for dressing up or down based on your mood. Plus, the iconic Tabi toe design adds a bit of subtly fashionable edge. (True insiders love the Tabi shape.) They're made in Italy and are available in sizes 35 through 41. Wear them with light colors now and with your darker fall and winter shades later. 

LOEWE + On Cloudventure Rubber-Trimmed Recycled-Canvas Sneakers

There are some designer sneakers that you can (and should!) actually go to the gym in. This pair from Loewe, in collaboration with ON, is proof of that fact. It comes in several colors, including this yellow shade, a white version, and black, and is lightweight enough to wear all day. You can shop them in half-sizes and in women's sizes 36 through 42. The brand notes that they run true to size and that they're made in part from recycled materials.

Common Projects Common Projects Retro Classic Low-Top Sneakers

These leather sneakers from Common Projects hug the foot, giving you a sleek, elevated look. Metallic footwear is still trending in 2024, and this pair makes it easy to incorporate a flash of silver into your everyday look. However, you can just as quickly shop them in a white-and-black combination if it's more your style. The brand's range of subdued sneakers has become a cult-favorite hit because the leather molds to your foot as you wear it for added comfort.

Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneaker

Celebrities like Suki Waterhouse and Sofia Richie Grainge have both worn this exact pair of sneakers from Stuart Weitzman. From the graphic black-and-white logo design to the chunky, sporty silhouette, they’re a can’t-miss option on this list that prioritizes comfort. While they aren’t available in half sizes, you can shop them in full sizes 5 through 12. If you are someone who wears a half-size, the brand recommends going for the next full-size up. If you’re looking for a monochromatic look, they also come in an all-white variation, too. 

Customer Review: "I love sneakers and these are wonderful! So lightweight and comfortable. Also, received so many compliments already! (Size up!!)" — Stuart Weitzman

Meet The Expert

Experienced in luxury editorial, trend forecasting, and strategic consulting, Kendall is the Fashion Director at Trendalytics as well as a freelance writer for Refinery29, The Zoe Report, LuisaViaRoma, WhoWhatWear, and Coveteur. Prior, she was the Assistant Fashion Director for Women’s RTW at Bloomingdale’s and contributed to global trend forecasting agencies. Plus, she’s a fashion media personality and expert that’s been featured in ABC, Cheddar News, Harper’s BAZAAR, GQ, Bustle, Sourcing Journal, Brides, and Vice.

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