This spring, look at the feet of any fashion insider, and you might spot a pair of Autry sneakers, especially the brand’s white Medalist style.
A new trendy sneaker is an unexpected, though not unwelcome, break from the sheer omnipresence of Adidas Sambas and Puma Speedcats we see every day. The vintage-style sneakers have made a huge comeback in recent years, and while we love their slim silhouettes and clean designs, it’s hard not to notice that they’ve all but pushed chunky styles off the street-style radar.
Perhaps not for long. Now that skinny sneakers have officially reached the mainstream, it seems fashion pros have quietly been turning their attention elsewhere—and this time, it’s to a retro-inspired shoe that is so wonderfully understated and cool that it’s mostly flown under the radar. Until now.
Why Autry sneakers will be your new favorites in spring 2025
Unlike its predecessors, this new It sneaker comes without much fanfare. No flashy branding, no eye-catching patterns. Instead, the Autry Medalist comes with a simple shape, a sole in off-white, and a look that’s somewhere between the tennis courts of the ’80s and modern minimalism. And it is precisely this understated attitude that makes them so popular.
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For those unfamiliar, the brand was founded in Texas in the 1980s and remained on the scene until the death of its founder, Jim Autry, in 2009. Then, in 2019, the brand was revived by two French fans of the original Medalist sneaker.
While the brand has several shoes in its collection—including the Windspin, a nice alternative to the Speedcat or Samba for those looking for a slimmer design—it’s the Medalist that has made the most impact. The white sneaker can even be customized to your liking in subtle ways, from a high platform version to contrasting leather details in a variety of colors.
How to style the Autry Medalist sneaker, according to fashion pros
In addition to its clean look, the Autry Medalist’s versatility and retro vibe are what make it so popular. The shoes go with almost any style, from casual weekend looks to office-ready outfits. And thanks to its lightly lined interior, it’s also comfortable.
Stars like Katie Holmes seem to have taken a liking to the Autry sneakers. Wearing gray wide-leg jeans and a white blouse, she paired her business look with a boxy blazer for the perfect mix of elegance and sporty nonchalance.
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