A new school wardrobe in this economy?? We feel you. This year, the mission is to find pieces you’ll love without sacrificing all the hard-earned money you’ve saved up this summer.
To make things easy, we made a list of five sneakers (plus a few extras at the bottom) that will last the full year, are actually cute, AND can be secured for less than $200. If you do the math, that’s a solid investment.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 Sage Green
It’s been a big year for ASICS and their Gel-Kayano 14 silhouette. Coveted collabs with brands like KITH and JJJJound helped skyrocket the pair into mainstream hype, transforming the design from a trusted running shoe to a “cool girl” staple – all within the last year. There are dozens of colorways up for grabs, but we’re big fans of this Sage Green iteration since it’s a palette that can transition through all seasons, but still gives you that on-trend green vibe (way more affordable than the similarly colored ALD New Balance drop).
adidas Campus 00s Dark Green Cloud White
Adidas has been front and center for the girlies this year thanks to your favorite influencers and celebs rocking their Sambas and Gazelles all over social. But if you want to get ahead of the brand’s next trend, then it’s time to add the Campus to your rotation. Plus, if you were hesitant to jump on the Sambas because “they make my feet look flat”, then you may really like the Campus’ platform sole and wider tongue. It’s available in a fun range of colors, but to no surprise, our favorite is the Dark Green (we can’t help it – green is super chic right now).
Nike Dunk Low Rose Whisper
The Dunk Low is still in heavy rotation, but we’re hoping this school year is when we collectively move on from the black and white Panda colorway. There are hundreds of Dunk options out there, and many of them are easy on the wallet. Right now, we’re really into the Rose Whisper iteration. It features a neutral hue that has more of a brown/sepia vibe that’s versatile enough to transition with your closet from autumn to spring.
Jordan 1 Retro Low OG UNC to Chi
If your personal style is less quiet luxury and more maximalist, then you might want to bring the Jordan 1 Retro Low OG UNC to Chi home. Similar to the Dunk, the Jordan 1 Low silhouette has a long list of colorways. One of its more recent women’s releases comes laced in the beloved NC to Chi palette featuring vibrant pops of red and baby blue against a bold black upper. Better yet? Depending on your size, you can secure this pair for way less than its $140 retail price.
New Balance CT302 White Reflection Violet
It wouldn’t be a back to school sneaker list without a New Balance in the mix, and the CT302 is a great addition to your lineup. It’s not the usual NB silhouette (990, 992, 550), so you’ll feel like an originator. Plus it’s on brand for both the understated and maximalist girls, blending an exaggerated midsole with a super wearable and neutral palette.
