11 of the most stylish black sneakers for every occasion

Sneakers are the one item that never goes out of fashion—if you know what to look for, that is.

Sneakers are the one item that never goes out of fashion—if you know what to look for, that is.

Vogue Australia may receive advertising or affiliate commission if you buy through our links. Read more here.

Whether you wholeheartedly embraced the athleisure trend or not, there’s no denying the need for a wearable pair of sneakers in every woman’s wardrobe. Everyone from Princess Diana, who opted for classic black Supergas, to Vice President Kamala Harris, who famously wore black Converse Chuck Taylors from her campaign trail to the cover of Vogue US, have endorsed the casual trainer over the years. 

And for good reason: a pair of black sneakers will not only provide enough comfort to be worn all day, the right pair will also go with almost any outfit, taking the stress out of choosing what to wear in the morning.

But as more and more designers expand their footwear offerings to include trainers and different shoe trends pop up almost daily—grandpa sneakers, retro sneakers, designer sneakers—the seemingly simple task of finding the perfect pair of black sneakers is becoming increasingly confusing. 

Not to mention luxury fashion houses pairing up with classic sneaker brands—both Prada’s collaboration with Adidas and Asics’ collaboration with Vivienne Westwood have been selling out globally. This means it can be easy to get caught up in the hype and purchase something trend driven rather than a pair of sneakers that will never go out of style. 

To help you on your quest to find the perfect black sneaker, we’ve rounded up the best of the best. 

The best black sneakers for women in 2024

It doesn’t matter what your style is, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Converse Chuck Taylors. The classic sneaker is worn by everyone from skateboard-riding teenagers, to Beyoncé, to the Vice President of the United States. For a timeless option, go for either black or white hi-tops or low-tops—or to be safe, both. 

SHOP NOW: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Hi, $130 from The Iconic

For a while, Adidas Superstars were everyone’s go-to shoe, but in recent years the Gazelle has proven itself to be the brand’s more timeless and versatile option. Endorsed by Kate Moss back in the ’90s and everyone from Lily Aldridge to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in recent times, the Gazelle feels good and looks even better. 

SHOP NOW: Adidas Originals Gazelle suede and leather sneakers, $170 from Adidas

Boasting minimal stitching, premium Italian leather, a padded tongue, and a durable yet soft rubber outsole, Rollie Nation’s classic Wave sneakers tick all the relevant boxes. Described by a customer as ‘light as a feather’

and impressively comfortable, the pair made in Portugal offer support via an orthotic-friendly moulded removable footbed, and are also available in men’s sizes—in case you’re eager to match with your significant other. 

SHOP NOW: Wave classic black sneakers, $299.95 from Rollie Nation

Veja sneakers have cemented themselves as being a stylish wardrobe staple, but one which has sustainability and fair trade front of mind. The brand uses organic cotton and its thick sole is created using wild rubber harvested from the Amazon rainforest, helping to keep the trees standing. It’s no wonder Meghan Markle has been spotted sporting a pair on numerous occasions. 

SHOP NOW: Veja Campo leather sneakers, $205 from Macthes Fashion

Common Projects has long been the fashion crowd’s favourite minimalist sneaker. The brand built a cult-like following for its Original Achilles low top sneakers, which are made in a simple, low-top design, bare of any frills apart from subtle signature golden numbers at the heel. 

SHOP NOW: Common Projects Original Achilles leather sneakers, $615 from My Theresa

Yes, these sneakers are a little more trendy than your classic Converse, but hear us out. Alexander McQueen is famed for creating new sneaker styles that last the test of time, such as the brand’s exaggerated sole sneakers still selling like hotcakes years after their release. The best part about this design is that it’s smart enough to be worn to the office with a cute dress, as well as being cool enough to wear on a night out. Basically, you’ll never need to take them off. 

SHOP NOW: Alexander McQueen 45mm Tread Slick cotton canvas sneakers, $1,000 from Luisaviaroma

The thin design of these Nike Daybreak sneakers means they instantly look more elevated than your usual trainer, especially when paired with jeans or black pants. A hot tip: they do  run small so buy one size above your usual size.

SHOP NOW: Nike Daybreak sneakers, $240 from StockX

Though traditionally a skate shoe, in recent years the fashion crowd has been reclaiming Vans, with everyone from Hailey Bieber to Zendaya and Alexa Chung wearing a pair of the classic Old Skool style. The perfect shoes to offset a pretty floral summer dress, or to be worn with jeans and a blazer to work. 

SHOP NOW: Vans Old Skool, $129.95 from The Iconic

Reebok’s first collaboration with Maison Margiela was so popular both brands decided to team up again. Spotlighting Margiela’s signature trompe-l'œil technique, the sneakers have 2D lines replacing the usual panels on the leather uppers, which work to create an optical illusion. Did someone say chic?

SHOP NOW: Reebok + Maison Margiela Project 0 Club C printed leather sneakers, $172.92 from Net-A-Porter

The Row has a way of creating anything from strappy sandals to cashmere jumpers to, evidently, sneakers, which instantly become classics. The brand’s  'Marie H' sneakers go with anything from feminine dresses to tailored pants and cropped jeans. Like everything by The Row, these trainers will be an investment piece that’ll last a lifetime.

SHOP NOW: The Row Marie H canvas slip-on sneakers, $665.11 (originally $1,233.26) from Net-A-Porter

Acne Studios has taken inspiration from the grandpa sneaker trend and created a style that’s both on trend and, at the same time, simple enough they won’t leave you wishing you’d gone for something more classic in a few months' time. 

SHOP NOW: Acne Studios lace up sneakers, $630 from Ssense

Are black sneakers in style?

The best thing about black sneakers is that they never go out of style. Though specific brands and designs may have a ‘moment’ and become trendy for a certain amount of time, black sneakers, just like jeans, are timeless, classic, and versatile. 

How can I style black sneakers?

Black sneakers are incredibly versatile. Wear them with a dress or shorts in summer (they work well to offset anything overly feminine, such as floral dresses and frilly skirts), or with jeans, tailored pants and leggings in the colder months. 

How can I keep my sneakers clean?

The easiest way to take care of your new sneakers is to buy a shoe protector and give them a once over spray before your first wear. Though it’s tempting to throw them in the wash when they’re dirty, you should actually just scrub the outsides with a brush and some detergent to clean them. Wash the laces by soaking them in a bowl of warm water mixed with washing detergent. To hold the shape of your new sneakers, stuff each shoe with scrunched up newspaper after each wear, this helps to absorb any moisture and reduces any odour.

Originally published as 11 of the most stylish black sneakers for every occasion