"Ugly" Shoes Are a Big Part of EmRata's Style, But Her New Sneakers Are Especially Controversial
When I first saw these images of Emily Ratajkowski wearing laceless sneakers, they brought back vivid memories of a very similar water-friendly style I used to be forced into as a kid at the beach. I've resented any similar-looking shoes ever since, so I'm amazed to report that I think Ratajkowski has just made them look incredibly cool.
This pair of slip-on python-print sneakers from the Brain Dead X Oakley Factory Team collaboration ($165) may be EmRata's most controversial shoes yet. Never one to shy away from talking point shoes, the model has been spotted in jelly flats, ballet sneakers, and mesh shoes on multiple occasions recently, but never a pair as divisive as this. Cut to the height and size of conventional sneakers, these shoes are designed without laces and instead are lined with a Lycra fabric that closely hugs the foot, keeping them in place and creating a Croc-sneaker hybrid.
As she's stepped out in her laceless sneakers several times over the past few weeks, it's clear that they're a new favorite in her collection. Ratajkowski proved their surprising versatility by styling them with a tailored miniskirt followed by baggy khakis and a fitted tank a few days later. As conventionally unattractive shoes, laceless sneakers have joined the "ugly-but-cool shoes" club, which counts Maison Margiela's Tabis as its most well-known member.
I swept through the wardrobes of celebrities this season, and EmRata isn't the only person I've spotted in sneakers sans laces as of late. Fellow model Iris Law recently took a pair for a stroll with a white ensemble.
Infused with gorpcore energy, these new sneakers are set apart from the slip-on sneakers of seasons gone by, like Vans' classic skater shoes, thanks to the thick-grip soles and sporty silhouettes. These shoes are set to rival traditional sneakers this coming season, so read on to get ahead of the game and shop the laceless-sneaker trend backed by Emily Ratajkowski and Iris Law.
SHOP EMILY RATAJKOWSKI'S LACELESS SNEAKERS
SHOP OUR EDIT OF LACELESS SNEAKERS
Ballet-style hybrids are set to be a major shoe trend next season.
Style with baggy jeans or wear with a tailored miniskirt like Ratajkowski.
Salomon sneakers are a fashion-person favorite.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.
On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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