Over the past year or two, I’ve amassed a well-rounded collection of Adidas Sambas—black-and-red, bright green, even metallic silver. Because, to be honest, I’m never one to resist a buzzy trend, especially when sneakers are involved. But given the speed of today’s trend cycle, it was only a matter of time before my trusty Sambas were pushed to the back of my closet in favor of fresher styles. And this fall, a new crop of sneakers are earning their spot in my rotation.
No, I’m not telling you to bid farewell to your Sambas—because if there’s anything we’ve learned about fashion, it’s that trends always make their way back eventually. (We’ve all gotten rid of pieces only to regret it years later.) I’m simply suggesting putting them, along with a handful of other sneaker trends, on the back burner this fall. Ahead, I’m sharing the five styles I’m buying this season—and the ones I’m retiring for now.
Buying: Canvas
Retiring: Mesh
This fall’s sneaker trends oscillate between bold and minimal, with canvas sneakers falling firmly into the latter camp. After Prada sent the pared-back style down its spring 2026 runway, the look quickly caught on among the fashion set—particularly Gen Z style stars like Olivia Rodrigo. Their understated appeal makes them an easy match for fall staples like cashmere sweaters and dark-wash jeans.
Buying: Embellishments
Retiring: Prints
Dial up the drama this autumn with an embellished sneaker, whether adorned with rhinestones, studs, or other eye-catching details. We can thank Miu Miu for popularizing the trend—just look to the luxury label’s embellished Trail Grip sneakers. If those are out of your price range, plenty of other brands are offering their own spin on the trend.
Buying: Skater Silhouettes
Retiring: Sneakerinas
Did someone say skater girl fall? Yes, Y2K-coded skate shoes, championed by Vans, are quietly staging a comeback this season. Opt for an edgy checkerboard style or more minimal neutral pair. Avril Lavigne would surely approve.
Buying: Chocolate Brown
Retiring: Black
If you thought the chocolate brown color trend was over, think again. This fall, the rich shade is making its way into our sneaker rotations, thanks to brands like Nike, Alo, and Reformation. I can already picture myself pairing chocolate brown kicks with cuffed denim and a V-neck sweater in the coming months.
Buying: Satin
Retiring: Metallic
If there’s one footwear trend that’s only just getting started, it’s satin shoes. Though satin ballet flats have been making the rounds in recent months, I predict sneakers rendered in the lustrous fabric will be just as coveted this fall. Name a prettier shoe—I’ll wait.
