Shoe Game
Written & Graphic By Mikayla Buneta
Throughout my interest in fashion, I have never paid much attention to the so-called “shoe game,” nor am I a self-proclaimed sneakerhead. My roots go all the way back to the 2020 era of Fila Disruptor IIs. Big, chunky shoes have always piqued my stylistic interest, and I’m currently looking for a fresh pair to integrate into my rotation. Through the new age of internet culture and socialization of style, I have collected a few favorites regarding structure, silhouette, and detailing. Accessibility and price varies on a few pieces based on designer and branding, but hey, at least they’re neat to look at.
ASICS x Cecilie Bahnsen GT-2160
This is an awesome collaboration with an independently owned Copenhagen designer. The structure of the sneaker itself is basic; great for casual wear. It features flower vectors across the mesh of the shoe and adds a detailed strap across the top of the laces. I fear wearing sneakers that sell for over $300, nonetheless these bad boys would look great for casual wear. These shoes seem to typically be styled formally, with frilly socks and dresses.
Although conflicting with my unwavering love of chunky shoes, this super flat pair of soccer sneakers creates a different silhouette for styling. I like how the gum sole curls up toward the top of the toe, and the thickness of the laces. With how thinly constructed the shoe is, I feel like it would be an interesting offset to a baggy outfit, serving as a statement piece that juxtaposes the silhouette of the loose-fitted clothing.
Ok, ok, hear me out. Sneaker bottoms combined with a ballet-laced open top–this concept is crazy! I feel like this show silhouette adds a masculine touch to the classy style of ballet wear. Combine it with some frilly socks and below-the-knee jorts, and you’re golden. These in particular encapsulate that punk-esque ballerina.
Shoutout to my cousin in Hawaii who I saw sporting these. I’m obsessed with the look of this shoe. “Tabi” is a Japanese term for something to “touch the ground”. It can be worn traditionally and casually, mostly an outdoor shoe used for laborers; what an interesting concept to create a modern sneaker out of this past labor development! They look very casual and comfortable, featuring 100% leather, cotton, and rubber material.
If you’re not about bandwagoning trends right now, the Adidas Gazelle is a similar yet unique alternative to the popular samba model. I like their “bold” collection, featuring a reiteration of the sole to appear stacked for the platform look. There’s an insane amount of colorways, a couple being lime green and salmon. With the amount of types and styles Adidas has to offer, this is the perfect shoe to incorporate as a statement piece– no two Gazelles are the same.
This has got to be the pair of the year. I love the details of the build and stitching of this shoe. There’s a lot of different areas for dropping color in. Slightly appalls me that they’re selling toddler sizes for $80, but now your kid can look baller as hell. And the names of the colorways? “Sea Salt with Tobacco and Incense.” It’s a cold rainy night on the East Coast…
Seriously, though. The 550s have a nice retro look, and the flat base makes them great for being active in, whether it be scraping kickflips or an afternoon on the court.
To those reading, I hope this collection of footwear has sparked some inspiration for your closet. Don’t sweat it if shoes aren’t your thing either. They can be expensive, over the top, maybe not even your style. But, to take a moment and appreciate the craftsmanship, design, and history behind a shoe, it’s so commendable. Any art is worthwhile, whether it’s the clothes you’re wearing or the soles on your feet.