Stepping up the sneaker

A new installation from DESIGNwatcher fashion correspondent, Amy Fox!

Stepping up the sneaker
By Amy Fox

Sure everyone loves their favorite Chuck Taylor's, Jack Purcell's, Stan Smith's, Rod Laver's and Vans, but when you're ready to step-in to something a little more serious, check out some of the new wardrobe staples of the well-heeled. Counter-clockwise from top: Common Projects ($332 as shown) is making some of the most stylish sneakers out there right now. Above is their version of a cutting edge take on the classic hightop. I also love how their label signature is only the article number, color and size code stamped in gold on the heel. Supergas ($80 and up) are the must-have Italian sneaker. You can chose from hundreds of colors and patterns, but the original design dates back to the 1920s. Spring Courts (about $90) have been around since 1936 and claim to be the original white shoe. Perhaps the best way to describe them is the French Chuck Taylors—they revolutionized the game of tennis like Converse did to basketball; of course now they're a big hit with musicians like Thom Yorke and fashion icons like Kate Moss—who wears them with a wide leg trouser suit and simple tank. Very classic and very chic. Their website is not yet up for online shopping, but you can order them via phone from Steven Alan in Venice (310-452-3413) or from their Nolita shop in NYC (212-226-7482).