A Complete Guide to the Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker

Over the last few years, Alexander McQueen’s staple all-white trainer has become the luxury shoe of choice in wardrobes across the globe. 

An effortless pairing with just about any outfit, be it formal or informal, the simplicity of McQueen’s oversized trainer has no doubt been a key factor in its resounding success. 

The exaggerated take on the traditional court shoe has also proved a hit throughout the celebrity world, with an array of big-name athletes and musicians regularly papped donning the silhouette. Those kinds of high-profile endorsements have no doubt made another sizable contribution to its overwhelming and lasting popularity.

A Brief History 

A relative newcomer in the world of luxury fashion, the now-unmistakable label wasn’t actually founded until 1992. Known for controversy and shock tactics, the British brand developed something of a rebellious reputation that wasn’t always appreciated within the industry. 

That being said, McQueen was awarded British Designer of the Year four times between 1996 and 2003, so that approach certainly did the job. 

This shoe, though, which debuted back in its original iteration in 2014, stepped away from that garish approach that had catapulted the brand into its current legendary status. It did, however, maintain all that same quality and luxe factor we’ve come to expect from them.

The McQueen trainer is made in Italy using unsurprisingly premium materials. Calfskin leather, durable rubber soles and prime suede—along with the iconic brand house title—explain why McQueen trainers are so expensive. An extra set of super sturdy laces are also thrown in with each pair for good measure.

How To Wear Alexander McQueen Trainers

Photo by Italist

The versatility of the McQueen trainer is undeniably its biggest USP. That means styling the shoe takes minimal effort before looking great. The less-is-more design means it’ll pair equally as well with an open-buttoned suit—adding a more casual hit to formal attire—as it would with a full tracksuit. 

Jeans, dresses, chinos and leggings all work seamlessly with the adaptable silhouette too. 

Are Alexander McQueen Trainers Comfortable?

Like any sneaker, one of the most important questions is: “Are they comfortable?” The premium leather used for the shoe does mean they can be a little tough for the first few wears, though the breaking in period shouldn’t last more than a couple of outings. From then on, the chunky sole offers up generous helpings of comfort, and far more protection than any regular tennis shoe could dream of.

Do Alexander McQueen Shoes Fit True to Size?

Alexander McQueen trainers are generally known to run quite big, meaning dropping down at least half a size is probably wise. Given the inflated design, sizing down can have its aesthetic benefits too, as regular measurements have been known to look a little ‘clownish’. 

As previously mentioned, they’ll quickly loosen up, so don’t worry if they feel a little tight at first.  

While we’re on the subject of sizing, McQueen shoes come in EU sizing, so if you need to find out your equivalent UK size, be sure to check out our size guides for men and women.

Is Alexander McQueen Sustainable? 

Under Sarah Burton, who has been the brand’s creative director since 2010, McQueen has made notable steps in terms of ensuring their model is more sustainable.

As well as placing an onus on reusing materials in recent collections, and donating surplus stock to fashion students, the brand is carbon neutral and has laid out plans to reach 100% sustainable sourcing and 100% traceability for key raw materials by 2025.