How To Style The Viral Sneakerina Taking Over Fashion

One thing for sure, fashion really loves a collaboration. When a single item seems to answer two questions at once, why wouldn’t it? And I’m not talking about the typical partnerships between two designers, I’m precisely talking about those unexpected moments when one item inherits a form of another and becomes something entirely new. Insert the sneakerina: a sneaker-slash-ballet flats that are having a moment on and off the runway.

This polarising shoe blends two opposing ends of the spectrum, combining the delicate look of balletcore with the sportiness and comfort of a sneaker. Parting ways from the chunky sneaker trend, it offers a slimmer, more narrow shape that are just as practical as they are chic. And whether ballet is a form of art or sport, this particular sneaker trend pays no interest in the debate. Because in fashion, two different things can be true at the same time, in one mutant shoe that will surely take over your wardrobe.

With endless styling options to try, we asked stylist and co-founder of Fakedcandid, Donson Chan, for his styling tips and ideas.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE BALLET SNEAKER TREND?

"I would think it’s a natural shift led by the revival of ballet flats. A cross between ballet flats and sneaker, it offers extra comfort or protection and most importantly the additional ‘height’ which no one will reject."

ARE THERE ANY RUNWAY MOMENTS THAT STUCK OUT TO YOU?

"It’s not exactly a runway moment, when Rockfish Weatherwear (a Korean owned British label) first launched their sneakerina in 2024, the elongated boxy shoe toe and the extra long shoelaces which gives you the options to tie a big bow in front or wrap it around your ankle and end off with a small bow at the back of the shoes. That really stood out to me."

HOW WOULD YOU STYLE THE SHOE?

"Go with the extreme ends of the spectrum: ultra romance (play up on sheer/ruffles and volume) or borrow from the boy (try vintage workwear). Bottom wise go short, show some leg and let the design of a sneakerina shines. It will be a waste if it’s covered by pants. If you want to elevate further, you can style it with a pair of leg warmer, fancy socks or add some charms to your sneakerina."

HIS PICK:

Acne Studios calfskin suede and buffed lambskin flats, US$685 (S$872), www.ssense.com

"My favourite is this denim rendition from Acne Studios, it adds a new twist to the hybrid."

Scroll for some major outfit inspo based on Chan's tips featuring the sneakerina.

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