Adidas Gazelles have risen to popularity as the hottest trainer in the past year, worn by celebrities like Katie Holmes and Gigi Hadid as well as style writers and content creators. However, according to UK-based personal stylist Lisa Talbot, the ubiquitous nature of the Gazelles has turned them into a basic fashion faux pas, as they are now seen on the feet of many women and have lost their imaginative and inspiring appeal.
The Adidas Gazelles, along with a similar style called the Adidas Sambas, became popular due to their vast color palette and comfortable yet stylish design, displacing the traditional white sneaker as the trendiest footwear choice. The Gazelles, originally designed in 1966 for indoor sports, have become a staple in many wardrobes, offering a pop of color to outfits while maintaining comfort. However, their popularity has led to them being considered uncool, following in the footsteps of other previously trendy sneakers like Stan Smiths and Nike Air Force 1s.
The shift from clunky shoes to sleeker and more streamlined designs favored by consumers contributed to the rise of the Gazelles and Sambas as fashion frontrunners. However, The Guardian reported that Sambas are no longer in trend according to the fashion cycle, as sneakers have mostly disappeared from top runways. Customers are now looking for versatile shoes that can take them from day to night, with a recent collaboration between Nike and Bode gaining attention as a potential top shoe of the year.
Highsnobiety style editor Tom Barker highlighted the thin, sleek design of the Nike x Bode collaboration as the rising “It” trainer, signaling Nike’s attempt to keep up with the demand for such footwear. Despite the changing trends, Talbot provided tips on how to style Gazelles without discarding them, suggesting pairing them with modern items like wide-leg trousers, denim shorts, dresses, and linen trousers to maintain a trendy look. In addition, opting for ballet pumps, loafers, or another type of neutral or slim trainer can also keep outfits on-trend without continuously chasing the latest fads.
In conclusion, the Adidas Gazelles, once a popular and fashionable sneaker choice, have now lost their appeal due to their widespread adoption and basic nature. As trends in footwear continue to evolve, consumers are seeking versatile and stylish options that can seamlessly transition from day to night. While sneakers like the Gazelles may be on the decline, new collaborations and designs are emerging to cater to the changing demands of the fashion industry. By staying true to personal style and incorporating modern elements into outfits, individuals can continue to wear their Gazelles and other classic footwear choices without falling victim to passing trends.
