Since last year, a trend that has been sparked by fashion icons such as Iris Law, Dua Lipa, and Emily Ratajkowski has become a big hit: ballet sneakers, which combine the lightness of ballet shoes with the comfort of sneakers. These evolved shoes, which combine pretty and practical with low-cut designs, satin materials, and straps, are attracting the attention of Gen Z in particular.
Now, fashionistas are turning their attention to more niche and unique footwear. Following tabi-style sneakers and Maison Margiela‘s tabi ballet, five-toed sneakers, a favourite of Julia Hobbs of British Vogue, are now becoming the new hot item.
Beyond “active”—Vibram sneakers has stepped into the realm of fashion
The most well-known five-toed sneaker is Vibram’s Five Fingers. They are known for combining the freedom of barefoot with a strong grip and supporting the natural movement of the foot, making them ideal for active situations.
Balenciaga’s winter collection for 2020 was one of the first brands to incorporate the Vibram sole into fashion. By fusing functional elements with high fashion, the brand reinterpreted the five-toed sneaker in a futuristic way, emanating a new presence.
Now, when Blackpink’s Jennie was spotted wearing these five-toed sneakers at Incheon Airport, they instantly became the center of attention as the next shoe trend. The sneakers’s lightness allows you to relax even on an airplane, and as unique as they are—it’s bound to be a show-stopper at the airport. The reason Jennie chose them may not be only because of their futuristic design, but also because they are practical for comfort—whether on the plane or in the city. The day when five-toed sneakers become the next “It shoe” may not be far off.
This story was originally published on Vogue Japan.
