The Rich-Looking Sneaker Trend That's Set to Dominate in 2025

If you'd told me previously that I'd be describing a sneaker trend as "rich," I might not have believed you. Nostalgic, utilitarian, minimalist, and even controversial, yes, but sneakers aren't the first item I think of when I picture an expensive or elevated-looking wardrobe. And yet luxurious is exactly how I'd defined the latest sneaker style to land in the closets of the fashion set. Right now, it seems everyone is reaching for a pair of suede sneakers, and there's no denying how much of a "rich" vibe these styles add.
It's not all that surprising when you look at the massive demand for all things suede this season, from suede jackets to suede bags, so sneakers are simply the latest item to get the luxe suede treatment. When it comes to specific styles defining the trend, New Balance is one brand driving the most in-demand pairs on the market right now, in no small part due to the Miu Miu collaboration designs that are selling out in record time. Suede styles are also picking up steam, with other brands, including Puma and Dries Van Notes, with styles including the celebrity-favored Speedcat and Suede-Trimmed sneakers, continuing to land on the sellout list.
Whether you're styling them with other rich-coded wardrobe items or wearing them to elevate a casual look, suede sneakers are defining 2025 trends. Ahead, shop the chic sneaker trend with an edit of the best styles on the market.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
-
Everyone in Monaco Looks Expensive, But Sofia Richie Grainge Outdid the Populace in This Black-Tie Gown
You have to see this look.
-
Not Skinny, Not Wide-Leg—the Specific Denim Trend Frequent Flyers Always Wear to the Airport With Sneakers
"Just right" jeans.
-
Confirmed: This Is the Sneaker Color Fashion People Are Swapping Their White Pairs For
It's true.
-
Anyone With Good Taste in Shoes Will Run to Order These New Adidas It Sneakers
Dakota Johnson already did.
-
Even People Who Hate Sneakers Will Lose It Over the Pretty Trend Jennifer Lawrence Just Wore
See for yourself.
-
I'm in My 20s, and Jennifer Aniston Is in Her 50s—We're Both Sidelining Blue Jeans for This Cool 2025 Alt
You should too.
-
Put Down the Skinny Jeans—*This* Is the Denim Trend Everyone Everywhere Is Wearing With Sandals
They're not straight-leg jeans either.
-
Spotted in Monaco: 6 Trends F1's Chicest WAGs Wore During the Grand Prix Weekend
Everyone showed out in Monte Carlo.