This Once-Dated Statement Sneaker Trend Is Already Selling Out Before Spring

Collage of different close-up shots of people wearing metallic sneakers.
(Image credit: @_sierramayhew, @misodam, @tamaramory, The Style Stalker, Getty Images, Far Fetch, and Steve Madden.)

In case you missed the memo, metallic sneakers are back. The shiny, glittery trend is everywhere— from shirts to bags to skirts and, of course, gold and silver sneakers. Clearly, metallic is the new black, and we're certainly not complaining. While the style is great to wear during the holiday party season (or during a night out on the town), don't limit your metallic outfits to just those occasions. Instead, wear them in your normal routine with simple sundresses, jeans, or sheer skirts ahead of the spring.

Now, if you're too afraid to go all out in head-to-toe sparkle (or just prefer to save that look for New Year's Eve), sprinkle in hints of this polarizing '80s micro-trend via your accessories. A pair of cool metallic sneakers are a great way to spice up white barrel jeans. You can also ground a look with silver shoes to guarantee it looks extra on-trend.

We searched far and wide to find 22 pairs of the best metallic sneakers bound to make you feel next-level. Read on to see and shop the metallic sneakers women in NYC, Copenhagen, and Paris can't stop admiring.

The Best Metallic Sneakers

  • Best Affordable Metallic Sneakers: Sam Edelman Kallen Sneaker ($85)
  • Best Viral Metallic Sneakers: Adidas x Wales Bonner Samba Sneaker ($738)
  • Best Silver Sneakers: Nike P-6000 ($125)
  • Best Gold Sneakers: Adidas Tokyo Sneakers ($90)
  • Best Designer Metallic Sneakers: Dries Van Noten Metallic Leather Sneaker ($535)
  • Best Subtle Metallic Sneakers: Asics Gel-Kayano 14 Sneaker ($150)
  • Best On-Sale Metallic Sneakers: J.Crew Rec Sneakers in Metallic Crinkle Leather (Now $83, previously $138)

How to Wear Metallic Sneakers

With a Slouchy Coat

Influencer wearing grey coat, black shirt, black knit pants and metallic sneakers.

(Image credit: @tamaramory)

Opt for an all-black or dark gray outfit to make sure your metallic sneakers shine. Bonus points if your metallic sneakers have a bit of a gorpcore edge to them with technical elements like exaggerated soles or rubber details.

With a White Minidress

Editor Sierra Mayhew wearing white dress, metallic sneakers with white tube socks, black purse and sunglasses, standing on New York City street.

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Looking to spice up your springtime sundress? Put aside your white leather sneakers and grab a pair of sleek, metallic sneakers and a tube top to add a bit of personality to your look.

With a Statement Blazer

Editor Ana Escalante wearing barrel jeans, metallic sneakers, red jacket and Loewe puzzle bag while at Copenhagen Fashion Week.

(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Metallics are the new neutrals. With a statement blazer or jacket like the above, it's best to opt for all-over metallic shoes in a darker gray or gunmetal colorway, akin to black sneakers.

With a Two-Piece Denim Set

Woman wearing two-piece denim set, white and gold metallic sneakers, and handbag while walking on the streets of Paris.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Instead of thinking too hard about your outfit, let your sneakers do all of the talking for you. Grab a simple two-piece denim set, and instead of the traditional silver sneakers the fashion set loves, pair it with some gold or bronze sneakers.

With a Sheer Skirt

Influencer wearing sheer shirt, sweater, metallic bag, and metallic sneakers while standing on the street.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Try merging some of the street style set's favorite trends—aka metallic sneakers and sheer skirts—for a cool, effortless look. Just grab your silver sneakers of choice, a lace slip skirt, a slouchy sweater, and your favorite shoulder bag.

Shop More Metallic Sneakers

Ana Escalante
Associate Features Editor

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.