The 1980s was a decade of opulence and maximalism, but it also marked a golden era for tennis shoes. To say that neither shoulder pads, leg warmers, or acid wash jeans left as deep an imprint as ‘80s sneakers is not an exaggeration. It’s a fact.
Their thick soles, sturdy silhouettes, and contrasting details remain so much in play today that you can’t ignore the influence of ‘80s fashion when talking about what shoes to wear each season. The decade witnessed key moments in sneaker history: From the first sporty model designed specifically for women, the Reebok Freestyle, to the intense fever for aerobic exercise that dominated culture. The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star became the uniform of rockers and punks, though even Princess Diana was known to don a pair. And of course, there’s the Nike Air Jordan 1, which broke all the rules about what it means to dress casual.
While ‘80s sneakers are always on trend, recent seasons have embraced the decade’s silhouettes but not as much the colorful expressions. That’s changed in summer 2025. As the temperatures rise, so it seems has our need for bright and eye-catching designs with retro flair. They’re surprisingly versatile too, now that the “wrong shoe theory” is in play.
So this season, let yourself be carried away by nostalgia. Here’s how to style your colorful ’80s sneakers for summer 2025.
Colorful Converse with flowy capris
High-top Converse were once a mainstream sporty option before reclaiming themselves as a symbol of counterculture punks. Today, they still have that same casual spirit but are being embraced in more vibrant tones. Pair with flowy capri pants or a skirt for a little bit of elegance with a laid-back touch.
Suzie Kondi Fili Kick Cropped Cotton-Blend Terry Flared Pants
Net-A-Porter
Converse Gender Inclusive Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker
Nordstrom
Bright Adidas with a matching handbag
With their signature rubber sole, rounded toe, and iconic three side stripes, Adidas sneakers became something of a status symbol in the 1980s. Since then, they’ve returned season after season to reclaim their place as an It Shoe. This season, we’re seeing them in colors that pop that actually make for a perfect partner in a monochromatic look. They go just as well with mini skirts on the weekend as they do a midi skirt at the office. Add a matching bag to bring it all full circle.
Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
Nordstrom
Mansur Gavriel Gaia Shoulder Bag
Shopbop
Nikes and cargo jeans
Since their original release with Michael Jordan in the 80s, the Nike Air Jordan 1 has been reinterpreted (and duped) a million times over in different color combinations. Whatever tone speaks most to you, it’ll be key to achieving a casual look that ensures comfort without losing style. A relaxed-fit pair of cargo jeans will bring out that vibe even further.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Mid Shoes
Amazon
Gap Mid Rise ’90s Loose Cargo Jeans
Gap
Colorful ’80s sneakers with a short dress
Launched in the middle of the decade, Reebok presented the Club Champion model as a clean, stylish, and functional option for tennis practice. Like other sneakers of the ’80s, they very soon left the courts and conquered the sidewalks. Their minimalist aesthetic evolved over time; now, shades like emerald green offer a playfulness that matches the energy of summer. Pair with short, printed dresses for maximum fun.
Free People Coolway Kizuna Nylon Sneakers
Free People
Simon Miller Sonora Mesh Mini Dress
Amazon
Dad shoes and linen dresses
The original “dad shoes” began as running sneakers, standing out for their comfort, performance, and style. Today, reinterpretations of the New Balance 990 have even been appearing in collections from luxury houses like Jade Wade, Loewe, and Comme des Garçons, to name a few. They’re a versatile shoe, ideal for any occasion, and combine perfectly with everything from denim jorts to linen dresses for a relaxed look.
Asics Unisex Gel-Nunobiki Sportstyle Shoes
Amazon
Cos Bias Cut Linen Blend Midi Dress
Cos
Suede sneakers with midi skirts
Vibrantly colored suede and flat soles define the Puma suede sneaker, which has gone on to inspired several successors and imitations. The coveted Speedcat in electric red is especially trendy today. It looks cool and modern with just about anything in your closet, though we prefer midi skirts that really let them shine. It’s a combo that guarantees compliments with every step you take.
Puma Speedcat Og Lace Up Sneakers
Amazon
Reformation Carolina Silk Skirt
Reformation
A version of this article was previously published in Vogue Mexico and Latin America.
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