Sneakers are undoubtedly a modern wardrobe essential, from classic white lace-ups to logo-emblazoned designs. However, the best chunky sneakers for women are the silhouettes du jour for offsetting sweet and tailored pieces with a streetwear edge. Even if you're a die-hard for high heels, there are days when the ease of a sneaker is just what you need. Besides, there's no denying the freshness that a thick-soled high top, weighty court shoe, or chunky white sneaker brings to looks of all kinds, including suit sets and your most understated off-duty attire.
As you consider refreshing your assortment of chunky sneakers to anchor some of your cute winter outfits now and spring 2023 fashion trends soon after, the vibe has shifted a bit from mega-hefty shapes and over-built soles. "Chunky sneakers are certainly still a trend, but they're not quite as chunky and bold as they were a few years ago, when they were essentially statement pieces," Vera Huang, Koio's VP of Merchandising, tells BAZAAR.com. "Now, they're a bit more wearable, and we love that."
This makes the best chunky sneakers even easier to style, especially if you're here for emulating recent celebrity-off-duty 'fits. "Hailey Bieber's chunky sneakers are always styled so well with the rest of her outfit," says Huang. "For a more casual look, we love chunky sneakers with a pair of slightly loose-fitting straight-leg jeans that bunch up a bit at the ankle," she continues. "Margiela has great denim options. I would wear [a pair] with a cropped button-down or sweater to play with proportions." For something more refined with chunky sneakers, the Koio VP suggests relaxed tailoring that pools at the hem.
Now the hard part: deciding which chunky sneaker is right for you. Huang says, "I think a chunky sneaker in a muted or neutral or muted tone is universally appealing—the subdued color can really balance out the chunkiness of the silhouette." Of course, you can't go wrong with a timeless white style that similarly pairs well with just about any outfit in your lineup. But then again, how fun is a vibrant shade to throw into the mix for a bit of peacocking?
Whatever speaks to you at the moment, keep scrolling to secure a pair (or two or three) of the best chunky sneakers. The edit ahead has everything from elevated, under-$100 finds to splurge-worthy luxury pairs.
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New Balance - 57/40 Suede and Mesh Trainers
Chunky, but make it a contemporary reimagining of an iconic silhouette like these 57/40s, which take inspiration from New Balance's ultra-simple 574 trainer.
Prada - Cloudbust Thunder Lug Platform Sneaker
These are the chunky sneakers for Prada Monolith loafer lovers, featuring similarly hefty lug soles with sawtooth rubber tread.
What reviewers are saying: "These sneakers are everything. Light, very comfortable and so fab. Gorgeous to look at. Perfect fit. I have so many outfit ideas to go with these already. Definitely worth the splurge."
Veja - Venturi Rethink neutrals with this burgundy-accented beige and sand-colored sneaker with blush laces. Proof muted tones aren't boring.
Balmain - Bold Pointed Toe Low Top Platform Sneakers So future, so luxe. This Balmain sneaker steers any outfit into athluxe territory.
Nike - Air Force 1 '07 SE
Choose these fleece-accented chunky sneakers for a wintry take on your favorite Air Force 1s.
What reviewers are saying: "Love these shoes! Fit perfectly. They are the perfect nude shoe and so versatile."
Alexander McQueen - Sneaker
Alexander McQueen's chunky sneakers are a bonafide classic—the tall rubber platforms are instantly recognizable, whether you go for all-white or a fun color pop, like this blue-accented pair.
Gucci - Rhyton GG Sneaker
Gucci goes gorpcore. The practicality of the tread soles and reflective trim practicality means you easily justify splurging on this chunky designer sneaker.
What reviewers are saying: "I love love love these sneakers. They're not only good-looking, but despite their weight, they're super comfortable. Don't hesitate if you're considering buying them."
Stella Mccartney - Loop Vegan Leather Low Top Sneakers
Stella McCartney is an OG regarding sneakers with just about everything from dresses to suiting and innovating in the luxury vegan space. These limited edition black-and-white low-tops are crafted with recycled materials and viscose made from bamboo sponge.
What reviewers are saying: "I purchased these one week ago and they are so comfortable, have great support for my feet, and look AMAZING with everything! I have worn these with jeans, a dress when I went into my office for the first time last week and have taken my dog for a spin round the park. These give me a little height of a pump along with the style I like to make any outfit look stylish and current. LOVE!"
Koio - Volterra
"Our chunkiest sneaker right now is the Volterra—we love it, and so do our customers," Huang says. "What's great about this shoe is that it's not overwhelmingly chunky—the sole is 1.5 inches thick, so it's substantial, but not so substantial that it draws too much attention from the rest of your look. Instead, it complements the outfit and brings it all together."
Off-White - Off-White Out of Office Sneaker
Off-White's sneakers are synonymous with cool-girl style and a fixture on the street style scene. The lilac touches on this pair soften the effect of the otherwise chunky silhouette that nods to '80s and '90s-style basketball shoes.
What reviewers are saying: "These out of office sneakers are so comfortable. They provide excellent padding and arch support. Highly recommend."
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Vans - Sk8-Hi Tapered Shoe
Classic high-top Vans get the chunky treatment via thick rubber soles—perfect with everything from white dresses to tonal camel outfits and jeans.
What reviewers are saying: "As a lover of denim I had to snag these. Glad I did. I love Vans, but I'm not one for the staple, so these fit the bill."
Superga - 2790 Canvas Chunky Sole Plimsoll Trainers
Canvas Superga sneakers are a cult classic and go with literally everything. This flatform version is the ultimate chunky take for those not into full-on heft. A gateway chunky sneaker, if you will.
What reviewers are saying: "This is my 3rd pair of Superga's. They are the most comfortable sneakers in the world. The run big so order a size down. They last a long time. Very durable well worth the money."
Chloé - Nama Woven Platform Low Top Sneakers
Pair these colorful Chloé sneakers with neutral outfits for a playful finish. Eco-bonus: the sneaker is constructed primarily of recycled materials, including nylon and rubber.
What reviewers are saying: "Wow! Absolutely stunning shoe. Incredibly well built and sturdy. The design of the shoe is so unique and unlike anything out there. I got tons of compliments. Somehow, the white part of the shoes stays PRISTINE. I’m not sure how they do that but it’s impressive."
Puma - Mayze Classic Platform Sneaker
White chunky sneakers are always the first choice. But when you're adding to your collection, a sleek black style, like these Puma platforms, is yet another pair you'll wear on repeat.
What reviewers are saying: "Bought these shoes in white because I thought they looked cute. They are even cuter in person. So stylish and very comfy. I am obsessed! True to size. Will probably be purchasing the black ones for work now!"
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Asics - Japan S PF
You love Asics for workouts, but opt for these 1981-inspired platforms from the brand when you're not wearing activewear. They're a no-brainer with dresses and trousers.
What reviewers are saying: "Love the style, best thing for my pants not dragging on the ground."
Adidas - Astir Shoes
These winter-ready chunky sneakers stand up to cold thanks to the triple-threat combo of a velvet upper, high-traction grip outsole, and synthetic leather mudguards.
What reviewers are saying: "Love the design and color choices. They take the outfit up a level."
Sorel - Kinetic Breakthrough Day Low Top Sneakers
You love Sorel's winter boots, but these sneakers may just be our new favorite from the brand. The ultra-chunky tread soles look so fresh without feeling overly bulky through the foot.
What reviewers are saying: "I am not one to wear sneakers and jeans, yet these look so great with everything!"
Hoka - Rincon 3 Running Shoe
Sure, these Hoka sneakers are some of the best running shoes and fully perform. But they also add an achingly cool splash of sport to dresses and cropped wide legs—they're a chunky sneaker that does both.
What reviewers are saying: "I finally caved and bought Hokas and it was the best decision I've made shoe-wise!! They are extremely comfortable, light, and stylish. My feet never hurt any more, I never have any blisters, and they are extremely durable! I would highly recommend purchasing a pair."
Keds - Triple Up Leather Shine Foxing Sneaker
White leather lace-ups stand the test of time. For an extra skosh of modernity, go for these chunky Keds sneakers, featuring pretty gold eyelets and 1.5” platform bottoms.
What reviewers are saying: "The leather is perfect because it doesn't get dirty like canvas. Love the height they add."
Isabel Marant - Balskee Leather and Suede High-Top Wedge Sneakers
Chunky wedge sneakers are an Isabel Marant signature—these will elevate any athleisure look, from those worn for errands to combos fit for a casual brunch.
This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.