Top Shoe Designers Reveal Their Favorite Sneaker Brands

Designers are flocking to their favorite sneakers. Here, Spy catches up with creative forces in the industry to talk top brands and what pair they have their eye on next.

Chris Benz, creative director, Bill Blass

Favorite sneakers: Vans all white Old Skool laceups because they’re the ultimate summer sneaker.”

Next purchase: Golden Goose because they always feel special and unique.”

Vans Old Skool sneakers
Vans Old Skool.
CREDIT: Courtesy

Ivy Kirzhner

Favorite sneakers: “My state of mind right now is experiencing an Eighties throwback, so I’m kind of obsessed with Onitsuka Tiger by Asics sneakers. Shows like Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’ and the sudden influx of colors and silhouettes that are reminiscent of those in the ’80s, are ushering in this movement that is, at the same time, wonderfully nostalgic and forward thinking.”

Next purchase: “It’s an oldie, but a goodie: the Reebok Princess, first issued in 1983. Reebok is going through somewhat of a revival right now, so I love that these shoes go with everything that is on-trend today, but that they’re oh so classically American.”

Watch on FN

Retro Sneaker Re-Releases
Asics’ Mexico 66 style, from the Onitsuka Tiger Collection, debuted at the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games pre-trials. Today, it’s been reissued in its original celebratory shades.
CREDIT: George Chinsee.

Jerome Rousseau

Favorite sneakers: “At the moment are the color-blocked Vans 50th SK8-Hi 38 Re-issue, which don’t go with any outfit I wear, which is why I wear them every day. And that’s a tie with the reinvented Vans checkerboard slip-on Lite; I love how they’ve taken that iconic shoe and updated it with the feather-weight sole and upper components.

Next purchase: “I love the signature 100mm Buscemi sneaker in tan leather, it’s chic and casual at the same time and I’d dress it up or down.”

vans van doren approved sneakers
Van Doren Approved collection Sk8hi sneakers.
CREDIT: Courtesy of Vans.

Theresa Ebagua, designer, Chelsea Paris

Favorite sneakers: “My go-to sneakers of the moment are my Puma x Rihanna ‘Fenty’ sneakers. They’re super comfortable and stylish — perfect for when I’m in a rush.”

Next purchase: “Currently, I have my eyes set on these Dolce & Gabbana embellished espadrille sneakers. I love how easy they slip on and their fun embellishment. I first saw them in Florence, and i fell in love.”

Fenty Puma Rihanna Creepers Release
Fenty Puma by Rihanna Basket Creeper Glo.
CREDIT: Courtesy of brand.

Liliana Acevedo, creative director, Kaanas

Favorite sneakers: “Golden Goose – Super Star Zebra sneakers, they have a touch of edginess without being to over the top.”

Next purchase: Valentino’s ‘Rockstud Untitled’ sneakers. I picture an allover white look, comfy and cool.”

Golden Goose Store London Mayfair
Inside the new Golden Goose store in London’s Mayfair.
CREDIT: James Mason.

Matt Bernson

Favorite sneakers:Common Projects, The Achilles. They are simple, well made and almost dressy.”

Next purchase: “I’ve been liking what Greats shoes are doing, going to get another pair of the Wooster.”

Common Projects Achilles Low Top Sneaker
Common Projects Achilles low-top sneakers, sold on Mr. Porter.
CREDIT: Courtesy of MrPorter.com

For a full look at the selected styles, click through the gallery.

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