It's Arrived: The Initial Sneaker Trend of 2026, Featured on Dakota Johnson.
Dakota Johnson has showcased a variety of fabulous outfits this year, but she reserved one of her best looks for a recent shopping trip in Los Angeles. I've always admired how attuned Johnson is to current trends and how effortlessly she incorporates them into her everyday wardrobe. She has a remarkable talent for assembling stylish outfits that even non-celebrities can replicate. One of her strengths lies in predicting upcoming sneaker trends and wearing them in the most fashionable ways. Her latest off-duty ensemble is a perfect example.
In her leopard-print faux-fur coat, white T-shirt, and light-wash jeans, Johnson sported a pair of teal patent leather Adidas Samba sneakers. Yes, patent leather—my prediction for the prominent sneaker trend of 2026. This year has seen patent leather shoes everywhere, making it only logical that sneakers are next in line for a glossy revamp. Alongside Adidas, brands such as Puma, Nike, and Prada are also embracing this trend with their latest collections. Johnson's patent-leather Sambas lent her outfit a classier vibe compared to typical sneakers, as evident in the accompanying photo. Continue scrolling to see for yourself and to find Johnson's exact sneakers (before they run out), along with a selection of other stylish patent-leather choices.
(Image credit: GAMR/Backgrid) On Dakota Johnson: Oliver Peoples x Khaite 1968C 53mm Oval Sunglasses ($514); Completedworks The Depths of Time Necklace ($310); Adidas Samba OG Sneakers in Aurora Ivy ($100) Shop Johnson's Look
Oliver Peoples X Khaite
1968C 53mm Oval Sunglasses
Completedworks
The Depths of Time Black Onyx and Recycled Silver Necklace
superdown
Raina Faux Fur Coat
Madewell
Perfect Crewneck Tee
Madewell
Medium Perfect Leather Belt
adidas Originals
Samba OG Sneakers in Aurora Ivy Shop More Patent-Leather Sneakers
PUMA
Speedcat Patent Sneakers in Pebble Gray/Feather Gray
adidas Originals
Tokyo Sneakers in Red
ZARA
Patent Leather Effect Sneakers
adidas Originals
Samba OG Sneakers in Yellow
Proenza Schouler
Arcadia Sneakers in Brushed Calf Suede
Prada
America's Cup Biker Fabric Sneakers
Larroudé
Stella Sneaker in Black Patent Leather
PUMA
Speedcat Patent Sneakers in Fall Foliage/Feather Gray
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It's Arrived: The Initial Sneaker Trend of 2026, Featured on Dakota Johnson.
When it comes to trends, Dakota Johnson will always guide you in the right direction.
