Natalie Portman has sparked a surge in summer chunky dad sneaker style after she wore statement-making shoes at the Christian Dior Cruise 2025 Show in Rome, Italy. While her luxury pair carries a high price tag, fans can recreate her look for only $71, making this trend accessible and stylish for everyone.
Natalie Portman’s Effortless Look Shines in Rome
This summer, celebrities are stepping away from sleek sneaker silhouettes in favor of chunky, throwback designs. Natalie Portman championed this shift at the Christian Dior Cruise 2025 event on May 27, where she showcased the season’s must-have dad sneakers. Dressed in Dior from head to toe, Portman paired a textured herringbone jacket, simple black undershirt, cuffed blue jeans, a beige bucket bag, and classic cat-eye sunglasses for an effortlessly cool ensemble. The highlight of her outfit was a set of Dior sneakers, which typically retail for $1,190, underscoring her affinity for luxury with comfort.
Affordable Alternatives Bring Designer Vibes to Your Wardrobe
For those who admire Portman’s flair but prefer a wallet-friendly option, the Beau Today Lightweight Chunky Sneakers offer a similar aesthetic for just $71 on Amazon. These sneakers capture the bold essence of the designer pair, giving you the look without straining your budget. According to the retailer, they blend high style with practicality, making them a great option for all-day wear, whether you’re exploring a city or just running daily errands.
Style Meets Functionality: Features of the Chunky Sneaker Trend
The Beau Today Lightweight Chunky Sneakers embrace everything about the dad sneaker trend: a prominent 1.77-inch heel, a breathable mesh exterior, and a secure lace-up design. Their ergonomic silhouette provides lasting support with each step, thanks to thoughtful features like a PU midsole and durable outsole for effective shock absorption. The mesh lining enhances ventilation, which is especially welcome in hot months, keeping your feet comfortable and fresh throughout the day.
Available in versatile shades such as white and navy-gray, the shoes suit a range of outfits. If you want to channel Natalie Portman’s exact vibe, the sleek silver version is the way to go. The flexibility of styling makes these sneakers an attractive option for both fashion-forward looks and classic, everyday pairings.
Why Chunky Sneakers Belong in Your Summer Rotation
Chunky dad sneakers offer far more than just athletic appeal. Unlike typical gym shoes, these can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Pair them with smart trousers, a tailored blazer, and a tote for an elevated office appearance, or combine them with leggings, sweatshirts, and sunglasses for casual travel days. This makes them a practical, versatile addition to your closet for any occasion, blending comfort and contemporary style.
Top Alternative Chunky Sneakers for Every Taste
If you’re seeking something slightly different or craving a distinct colorway, there are plenty of other standout choices on the market. Here are some top picks that suit various preferences and budgets:
1. Steve Madden Possession Platform Sneaker — previously $100, currently $60
2. New Balance 530 Sneakers — previously $100, now $92
3. Dream Pairs Platform Chunky Fashion Sneakers — previously $47, now $29
4. Project Cloud Chunky Platform Sneakers — $30
5. Lucky Step Platform Sneakers — $40
Each of these alternatives offers an opportunity to bring some designer-inspired energy—like Natalie Portman’s summer chunky dad sneaker style—into your own wardrobe, all while keeping costs manageable.
The Continuing Popularity of Statement Sneakers
As stars like Dakota Johnson and Sarah Jessica Parker experiment with bold summer statements, there is a growing trend toward mixing classic comfort with modern, eye-catching pieces. Fashion-forward personalities such as Kristin Davis are also seen incorporating standout accessories into their seasonal looks, reinforcing the versatility and popularity of these core wardrobe elements.
With Natalie Portman taking the lead on this summer‘s top sneaker trend, fashion enthusiasts and everyday shoppers alike have plenty of stylish, affordable options to try. Whether walking the streets of Rome or just the local neighborhood, chunky dad sneakers promise lasting comfort and a lively, optimistic take on summer style. Expect this trend to remain prominent as more celebrities bring retro-inspired footwear back into the spotlight for the months ahead.
