It's True—Fashion People Are Ditching Their White Sneakers For These More Elevated Shoe Trends

By Kevin Harson15 April 2025

If you've also Googled "alternatives to white sneakers" in the past few days, you're not alone.

There was a time when white sneakers were practically the only shoes I wore. Running errands? White sneakers. Heading to the office? White sneakers. Trying to make a dress feel more relaxed? You get the idea. Their appeal is obvious—they go with everything, they never feel too try-hard and they've been a solid wardrobe staple for years.

But recently, I've found myself wanting something… different. Not a complete departure from the ease of a white sneaker, but an update—something with a little more character. If you're feeling the same, it might be time you consider some alternate styles. And thanks to me, I found just the right trends to appease this desire for change.

It's not that white sneakers don’t still work—they do. But after seasons of heavy rotation, they can sometimes feel a little predictable, especially when you lean towards a minimalist wardrobe like me. I've noticed the same sentiment from a few of our Gen Z editors, which, honestly, surprised me. If anyone was going to be over our classic, reliable millennial shoe of choice, I assumed it would be them.

But no—they've embraced white sneakers just as much as we have, integrating them into their trend-heavy wardrobes in a way that makes them feel fresh again. The difference? They're not only wearing white sneakers. Instead, they're also reaching for more elevated shoe trends in general—like boat shoes and ballet flats—in ways that feel relaxed and relevant.

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The runways backed this up, too. The spring/summer 2025 shows saw a return to simple, wear-forever footwear. At Bottega Veneta, flats were styled with sheer, barely-there fabrics, proving they can feel as statement-making as a towering heel. At Miu Miu, boat shoes were the star; models wore them with everything from tailored shorts to relaxed suiting. And whilst loafers and Mary Janes continue to have their moment, I've got my eye on four classics that offer the same versatility as a white sneaker but with a little more personality.

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Of course, practicality still plays a part. I need something that can handle long days of walking, commuting, and running between meetings without sacrificing style. Lo and behold, after some research (Instagram-stalking my favorite fashion people), I've found four alternatives that fit the bill, each offering a different take on everyday dressing. Some lean more polished, others more casual, but all are just as easy to wear as a white sneaker.

Keep reading for my suggestions.

Shop Chic Alternatives to White Sneakers:

1. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: I'll admit that boat shoes weren't on my radar until recently. For years, they felt a little too "summering in the Hamptons," but the new wave of styles is far less preppy and instead, more wearable. Softer leathers, slightly chunkier soles, and a more relaxed shape make them feel less "yacht club" and more effortlessly cool. I've been styling mine with slouchy trousers and an oversized knit—an easy way to balance out their slightly polished feel. They also work surprisingly well with denim shorts and a crisp white tee for a low-key spring outfit that still feels considered.

Shop Boat Shoes:

Miu Miu

Canvas & Leather Boat Shoe

A fashion-week favourite—I've seen these styled with everything from maxi skirts to structured trousers.

A great affordable option that looks far more expensive than their price tag.

Jeffrey Campbell

Yachting Day Boat Shoes

If you're going to do boat shoes, this is the pair to get. A true classic that only gets better with wear.

Bally

Pathy Leather Boat Shoes

Bally makes some of the best boat shoes around right now.

2. Birkenstock Boston Clogs

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Style Notes: If you've been on Instagram at all in the last year, you've seen the Birkenstock Boston Clog. Whilst they're not new, their appeal isn't fading anytime soon. They have that cool, slightly undone vibe that makes any outfit look considered—even if you're just wearing them to grab coffee. I like to contrast their chunkiness with something softer—think a silky slip skirt and a lightweight knit. They also work well with baggy denim and a simple tank for a more relaxed feel.

Shop Birkenstock Boston Clogs:

Birkenstock

Boston Soft Footbed Clog

The taupe suede version is the most classic, and they go with everything.

Birkenstock

Boston Suede Clogs

I actually like the black for spring.

Birkenstock

Boston Soft Footbed Clog

Birkenstock

Boston Suede Leather

This blue-gray hue feels so fresh.

3. Clarks Wallabees

Style Notes: Wallabees have always had a bit of a cult following, but lately, I'm seeing them everywhere. There's something about their slightly retro, '70s feel that makes them so interesting. They're casual but not sloppy, classic but not boring—the perfect middle ground. Fashion people are wearing them with wide-leg trousers and a simple tee to let the shoes do the talking. They also pair well with longer skirts for that cool unexpected proportion play.

Shop Clarks Wallabees:

A true icon. If you're looking for a shoe with staying power, this is it.

A color that will work year-round.

You can't go wrong with a classic pair like these.

Clarks

Wallabee Scout Boots

I love the boots version as well.

4. Ballet Flats

Woman wearing Maison Margiela Tabi shoes

Style Notes: Ballet flats are everywhere again, and I couldn't be more thrilled. They're simple, classic, and work with just about everything. But this time around, they feel less elegant and more lived-in—perfect for dressing up or down. I love the contrast of ballet flats with oversized pieces like loose jeans, slouchy tailoring, and structured blazers. They also look great with cropped trousers and a lightweight knit for something a little more classic.