10 Shoe Brands That Are Just as Popular Now as They Were in the '90s
It's been more than 20 years since the '90s came to a close, and yet we're more obsessed than ever with the decade. Our fashion has never felt more influenced by the trends that ruled so many years ago than it does now. Pretty much every look we're into lately seems to have '90s roots: baggy jeans, cute cardigans, slip dresses, tube tops, bucket hats, platforms, chunky sandals. We could keep going . . .
On the topic of shoe trends, it dawned on us that so many of our current favorites — of the sneakers, sandal, and boot variety — are from specific brands, including New Balance, Reebok, Adidas, Dr. Martens, Converse, and Nike. All of these labels were hugely popular in the '90s, whether it was a cult-loved combat boot, hip high-top, or time-honored trainer. So, we thought it'd be fun to roundup some of the most popular '90s shoe brands that are still totally on trend today! Plus, we're shopping out some of the most beloved styles, which range from clean and classic to a little more fashion-forward and, of course, retro-inspired.
Keep scrolling for the shoe brands that made our top-10 list and shop your favorites — most of these come in under $100!
The '90s Shoe Brand: Adidas
From Stan Smith's to Superstars and those slip-on pool slides everyone seemingly wore in school, Adidas has so many cult-classic styles. It's hard to pick a favorite, but if we had to . . . nope, it's too hard. They're all too good!
Adidas Originals Stan Smith Shoes
Adidas Originals Superstar Shoes
Adidas Originals Continental 80 Shoes
Adidas Originals Nite Jogger Shoes
Adidas Originals Adilette Lite Slides
The '90s Shoe Brand: New Balance
New Balance sneakers have seen a huge resurgence among the style set — it's dang near impossible to scroll through Instagram without spotting a pair on stylish celebs, It girls, and influencers. From the popular 574's to chunkier trainers, you can't go wrong with a pair of sneakers from this brand (especially if you're into the whole half-dressed look á la Larry David and those featured on this Gramparents Instagram account).
The '90s Shoe Brand: Reebok
Counting Gigi Hadid, Victoria Beckham, and Cardi B as fans, classis Reebok sneakers are fail-safe for any throwback look. From re-issued styles from the '90s to those famous Freestyle high-tops, these sneakers are the epitome of retro-chic.
Reebok Classic Leather AZ Shoes
The '90s Shoe Brand: Fila
With signature chunky soles, Fila is choice for a streetwear-inspired look. Among our favorites are the brand's many iconic Distruptor's, thick-soled trainers, and retro court shoes.
The '90s Shoe Brand: Dr. Martens
How can we talk '90s shoes without discussing Dr. Martens? From the famous combat boots to chunky sandals and lug-sole Mary Janes, if it's a '90s grunge look you're after, look no further than this iconic brand.
Dr. Martens Jadon Smooth Leather Platform Boots
Dr. Martens Bethan Smooth Leather Platform Mary Jane Shoes
Dr. Martens Clarissa II Metallic Leather Platform Sandals
Dr. Martens Molly Leather Platform Boots
Dr. Martens Bex Smooth Leather Brogue Shoes
The '90s Shoe Brand: Champion
Champion is the go-to for affordable sportswear with a casual-chic vibe. While we adore the sweats, we might love the brand's assortment of sneakers even more. Another one of our favorites? The classic slip-on sandals.
Champion Gem Hi Classic Sneakers
Champion Bubble Court Low
Champion Bubble Court Low ($30, originally $70)
The '90s Shoe Brand: Converse
Whether you're a high or low-top fan, it doesn't get more classic than a pair of Chuck Taylor Converse sneakers. We love the classic colors like black, white, and red, but the archival prints and '90s-inspired court shoes are pretty hard to resist, too.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
Converse Chuck 70 Archive Print High Top
The '90s Shoe Brand: Nike
What were the '90s with Nike sneakers? For a modern take on nostalgic style, you can go wrong with a pair of Air Max sneakers, be it the 90, Graviton, or Correlate.
The '90s Shoe Brand: Air Jordan
OK, Air Jordan's are technically Nike sneakers, too, but they're so iconic, they deserve a category unto themselves. From the classic low top to retro-inspired silhouettes and cool collaborations, these sneakers signify true sneakerhead status.
Air Jordan 1 Retro High
Air Jordan 1 Retro High ($128, originally $160)
The '90s Shoe Brand: Timberland
Quintessentially '90s, Timberland boots have endured through the decades from throwback outfits worn by Aaliyah and Missy Elliot to modern looks worn by Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and Hailey Bieber. Whether you're rocking a pair of baggy jeans or a cute dress, go for the classic 6" lug-soles, heeled versions, or a pair of overbuilt sneakers from the time-honored brand.