I just got back from a trip to London, Sicily and Rome (during Milan Fashion Week, no less), and I’m here to report that the retro sneaker trend is red hot across the pond. I mean, who doesn’t love an old-school tennis shoe? I own a few pairs, and so do Italian street-style muses, chic tourists, fashion insiders and, of course, perennially cool celebs like Jennifer Aniston. The Morning Show star was recently spotted strolling through New York City in iconic Adidas Samba OG shoes.
Sambas have been the ‘it’ kicks of 2025, and thanks to the “Aniston effect,” you can expect to see even more pairs hit the pavement this fall, especially in unexpected textures and fun color combos that go beyond classic black and white.
Adidas
Take a page out of Jennifer Aniston’s book and make this red-striped Samba your best friend — the retro style is eye-catching, but it still manages to go with all your fall outfits.
$110 at Adidas
Like every vintage Adidas shoe, the Samba has a story, and it starts in 1950s Germany, when footballers (we know them as soccer players) were in dire need of a sneaker that could weather the icy winters. In the 1970s, the shoe began to evolve into the Adidas Samba OG we know and love, with its gum sole, grippy herringbone tread and T-shaped suede toe cap.
Adidas’ trademark triple stripe is a mainstay, and today, it comes in practically every color out there, including bold reds and greens, pale pinks and blues, and even metallics. The leather and suede uppers have followed suit, with plenty of vibrant colors and patterns; Leopard print is my personal favorite.
The Samba isn’t just a pretty face, though — there’s padding in the ankle and heel, a cushioned midsole, and impressive traction thanks to the rubber sole and supportive upper that skews a bit snug. The shoe is known for having a brief break-in period, but afterwards, it molds to your foot.
When she’s not turning heads on the red carpet, Jennifer Aniston keeps things laid-back in these ultra-comfy kicks.
(Raymond Hall/GC Images via Getty Images)
Aniston is far from the shoe’s only celebrity fan. Anne Hathaway, Kate Moss and even UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are devotees And thousands of everyday shoppers have given the Adidas Samba OG five stars for style and wearability.
“The perfect balance between classic sport design and streetwise sophistication. The leather upper feels substantial yet flexible, and the suede toe adds just the right touch of texture,” one reviewer wrote, anointing them “comfortable, durable and always cool.”
“I’m a makeup artist and comfort on a long day is my priority — these are so comfortable,” wrote one hard worker. Added another mover and shaker: “They’re my go-to choice for a day at the amusement park when I know I’ll be walking around all day or when I’m traveling.”
Some shoppers are planning their fall outfits around Adidas Samba OGs. “This burgundy/maroon color is so rich for the fall season. They make any outfit look good,” one wrote. Added another: “The animal print with a pop of color is the perfect colorway for fall. Buy the shoe!”
Adidas
The Samba lineup features plenty of fall colors, like teal, maroon and navy. You can also opt for animal prints like leopard and snakeskin — some with pops of color mixed in. Browse all the colors and patterns here.
$100 at Adidas
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.