It's Happening: In-the-Know Fashion People Are Shelving White Sneakers for These 6 Colors
White sneakers are a classic choice, perfectly suited for occasions like outdoor tennis matches, all-white summer outfits, or a bride-to-be traveling for her bachelorette. That said, by 2026, fashion people will set them aside in favor of fresher options.
You might expect me to say that dark neutrals like black, navy, and gray are what they're opting for instead. While that's true, that's not what I'm getting at. In fact, they're choosing bold colors—and it makes sense. As days grow shorter and colder across the country and throughout Europe, people are looking for ways to make dressing more exciting, motivating them to leave their warm, cozy Lola blankets.
After analyzing recent outfits from insiders in NYC, L.A., Copenhagen, Paris, and Amsterdam, especially those who often wear sneakers, it's clear that there are six colors they're favoring. The same goes for the styles they are choosing, many of which are from sneaker brands like Adidas, Salomon, Puma, and Dries Van Noten.
Keep scrolling to discover the six sneaker color trends that are quietly gaining popularity and are sure to be everywhere in 2026.
Shop the Best Sneaker Color Trends of 2026
1. Beige Sneakers
Though we're heading into the depths of winter, one sneaker color trend that fashion’s most attentive are embracing for the colder months is light beige sneakers. The hue is almost as light as white but feels inherently more luxurious and suitable for winter, especially in suede, which gives the color a soft, elevated finish. How to style them? Gray trousers and a leather jacket, white jeans and a white puffer coat, or black jeans with a chocolate brown sweater.
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2. Burgundy Sneakers
People who follow fashion trends know that burgundy is one of this season's hottest color trends. It's showing up on leather boots, handbags, coats, and even pencil skirts. So, seeing it on sneakers now feels like a natural next step. Its warm brown and red undertones give burgundy an inviting vibe that matches the cozy winter atmosphere, like sipping a glass of Merlot by a crackling indoor fireplace. It feels both indulgent and grounding, creating a relaxed mood and a sense of settling in—even on sneakers meant for standing and walking.
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3. Brown Sneakers
From camel suede to rich chocolate, brown sneakers are everywhere right now. Whether paired with baggy jeans and a sweater or a maxi skirt and a bomber jacket, the color makes any winter outfit look more expensive. Given their popularity, there are styles for all types of shoppers. For those on a budget, consider brands like Dolce Vita and Zara, while for designer options, Proenza Schouler, Miu Miu, and Loewe offer sleek styles that will give you your money's worth.
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4. Red Sneakers
The red sneaker trend feels distinctly retro, reminiscent of sporty styles from the '90s, yet it also looks fresh and modern in today's fashion landscape. The reason insiders love them is that the bold pop of color adds personality without overpowering an outfit. Plus, they're surprisingly versatile, as they look great with black leggings while also dressing down black trousers.
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5. Metallic Sneakers
In the early part of 2025, Who What Wear reported that silver was the new black in sneakers. Fashion people in NYC and Paris began wearing them for everything from workout classes to brunch with friends. Almost a year later, silver sneakers remain just as popular. Celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski have styled them with track pants for the airport. At the same time, editors like our very own associate features editor Ana Escalante have worn them with dark-wash jeans and a red blazer for a day in the office.
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6. Yellow Sneakers
The boldest choice in this edit is yellow sneakers, but don't be intimidated by them. When selected and styled properly, they can be very wearable. The key is to choose a pair with a hue closer to mustard yellow. For the silhouette, think retro-inspired low-profile designs. Pair them with grays and browns to create a soft contrast.
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Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders, and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.
