So Fresh: Common Projects Retro Lows, Photo: Karen Woo
THE WHITE LOW TOP SNEAKER
Low-top sneakers are as the name suggest cut low on the ankle, this sneaker typology has roots from the style icons including racing legend Steve McQueen and tennis champion, Stan Smith. The white low top sneaker is both minimal and considered a mens style essential. They can be styled together with shorts and a shirt and even with a tailored suit (given the occasion) due to their low-cut design.
Below is a curated selection of Mr. Gumbatron's top picks from everyday sneakers to premium street cred kicks and even your High Fashion foot fetishes.
THE EVERYDAY SNEAKER
RRP: $140 AUD
Probably one of the most instagramed sneakers online. These daily beaters are a great value sneaker and made to last, The green tabs on the rear and the off white midsole give this version a nice contrast with the all white upper. Adidas do many of variations of the Stan Smith which was named after the iconic tennis star, including a more premium version in collaboration with designer Raf Simons (see below).
RRP: $280 AUD
I have a great appreciation for Scandinavian brands/aesthetics and have been a big fan of Axel Arigato since they began designing sneakers in 2014. Their sneakers are understated and of excellent quality, the designers constantly release new styles and designs showcasing their creative prowess as a young emerging player in the market. They use quality leathers and a durable rubber cup-sole from Margom. Arigato branding is subtly with a logo on the side in gold. The price point is another big win.
THE PREMIUM STREET CRED SNEAKER
RRP: $440 AUD
NY based brand Common Projects have a cult following for their understated aesthetic. The Achilles are a true minimalist classic, they are very comfortable, with supple italian leather uppers, they also feature a durable rubber cup-sole from Margom. Common Projects do plenty of seasonal colours. the off-whites and blush pink are two of my current favourites. Also consider the Retro Low style for a more contemporary variation of the Achilles. TIP: note that the sizing is slightly different between the two styles.
RRP: $500 AUD
Raf Simons' take on the iconic 'Stan Smith' is typical of the brand's cutting edge aesthetic. I love how Adidas has been dipping their feet into the designer sneaker market. These off-white leather sneakers feature a mint heel tab, bronze hardware and a perforated 'R' at the sides. Staying true to adidas' original design, they have tonal rubber soles and a classic construction.
THE HIGH FASHION SNEAKER
Saint Laurent SL01 Court Classic Sneaker
RRP: $730 AUD
Nothing says high fashion quite like Saint Laurent, If you are after a little bit of understated 'wow' factor in your shoe game, these Saint Laurent wont disappoint, This style is quite narrow but are a good snug fit, the branding is minimal, with small gold print on the tongue and an embossed rear in a small modest font. A true incognito high fashion designer sneaker.
RRP: $74o AUD
Givenchy is known to combine dark romanticism and street wear elements with the refinement of a Parisian couture house, This Givenchy sneaker silhouettes is classic yet the detailing is progressive and stylish. The tonal cream sole offers a nice contrast and hides dirt from the midsole. Finished with the signature knot detail and gold branding lifts the style. This is one without one of my all time favourites sneakers.
Whether you are looking for an everyday white low-top sneaker, transitioning into more designer kicks or are seeking the ultimate high fashion runway sneaker, the above selections form a strong foundation for the the discerning sneaker head.
Mr. Porter and Sneakerboy are two of the places where I do most of my sneaker shopping.
---------
dress well, drink well, live well
.
L.M
