# Street-Inspired Couture Kicks The Balmain Spring/Summer High-Top Sneakers are Haute and Hip By Taylor Keefe | Published 2011-12-25 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balmain-spring-summer-2012-high-top-sneakers References: [upscalehype](http://www.upscalehype.com/2011/12/balmain-springsummer-2012-sneakers/) & [balmain](http://www.balmain.com/) When it comes to couture sneaker releases, the price is always intimidating but the [Balmain](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unicorn) Spring/Summer 2012 high-top sneakers are definitely worth the hefty price tag. The fusion of [high-end fashion and streetwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-x-puma) is flawlessly executed with both variations of these classy kicks. When perusing its recent footwear line-up, the Balmain Spring/Summer 2012 high-top sneakers were leaping off the screen. The stylish kicks are made with quality materials, such as [calf skin leather](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-tie-20), and feature two different styles. Balmain will release a ribbed version of the sneakers that features a grooved tongue and leather strap overlapping the laces. The second model loses the strap in favor of side detailing in the form of a zipper, which runs from sole to the upper heel. Both styles are available in black or white colorways. These kicks are elegant and high quality; and the price tag comes in at $900 (zipper) and over $1000 (strap) respectively. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 37% | Activity: 62% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **High-top Sneakers:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the design and functionality of high-top sneakers. - **Streetwear Couture:** Potential to disrupt the fashion industry with street-inspired couture designs. - **Luxury Footwear:** Disruptive innovation opportunities in creating high-end, luxurious footwear for fashion-conscious consumers. ### Where This Applies - **Fashion:** Disruptive trends in high-end fashion with the fusion of streetwear and couture. - **Footwear:** Opportunities for disruptive innovation in the design and production of high-quality sneakers. - **Retail:** Disruptive trends in the luxury retail industry with the introduction of high-priced, fashionable sneakers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Chic Slim-Fit City Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-city-sneaker.md) - [Dynamic Ultra-High Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/platform-sneaker-1.md) - [Dynamic Pointed Luxe Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reptile-sneaker-1.md) - [Subtly Luxurious Sneaker Styles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/burberry-box-sneakers.md) - [Dynamic Fashion-Forward Basketball Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/basketball-sneaker-1.md) - [Luxury Retro-Style Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sons-rogue-baseline-hi-top-tan.md) - [Premium Technical Rugged Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hike-sneaker.md) - [Luxury Leather Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-tie-20.md) - [Premium Pleated Skate Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sawyer-sneaker.md)