VIPs Over 40 Won’t Fly Without This Airport Sneaker Trend
White sneakers have become an essential component of Hollywood travel wardrobes, with stars including Emily Blunt, Julianne Moore, and Nicole Kidman utilizing the footwear for airport navigation. According to reports, these celebrities prioritize the shoes for their versatility during press tours and international transit, opting for established models like Axel Arigato’s Clean 90 and Adidas Stan Smith sneakers to manage the demands of constant travel.
Celebrity Airport Footwear Choices
Emily Blunt has relied on Axel Arigato’s $300 Clean Sneakers for transit since 2019, wearing them during the recent press cycles for The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Disclosure Day. Despite opting for low-profile, all-black loungewear, Blunt’s choice in footwear remains distinct, featuring a 1.8-inch-thick tread and calfskin leather. Unlike some of her contemporaries, Blunt has avoided the ballet-sneaker trend, maintaining a consistent preference for the structured Axel Arigato brand.
Julianne Moore also favors the white sneaker trend, frequently wearing Adidas Stan Smith sneakers for travel to destinations including Milan, New York City, and the French Riviera. On May 15, 2026, Moore arrived at the Cannes Film Festival wearing the $100 tennis shoes, often pairing them with high-end accessories such as her $5,900 Bottega Veneta Barbara Tote and $4,900 Madison bag. Moore consistently coordinates her footwear with her outfits, often matching the white tone of her sneakers to her button-down shirts and sweaters.
Julianne Moore has maintained a consistent travel uniform since 2023, pairing her white Adidas Stan Smith sneakers with various Bottega Veneta bags, including the Medium Gemelli and the Intrecciato leather Barbara Tote.
The Prevalence of White Sneakers Among Frequent Flyers
The trend extends beyond Blunt and Moore, as other high-profile travelers have integrated white sneakers into their airport style. Nicole Kidman was spotted at Sydney Airport earlier this year wearing unidentified white sneakers that featured structured gum soles. While her outfit was primarily comprised of Chanel pieces, the architectural style of the shoe soles mirrored that of Axel Arigato’s Daze Runners, leading to speculation that Kidman may share a brand preference with Blunt.
The reliance on white sneakers by frequent flyers suggests a shift toward footwear that balances aesthetic versatility with the physical support required for international air travel. By prioritizing established, durable models, these stars treat their footwear as a functional tool for professional obligations rather than just a seasonal accessory.
What May Happen Next
As white sneakers continue to function as a staple for celebrity travelers, the trend is likely to remain a fixture in airport fashion. Given the diverse range of styles currently in use—from the minimalist aesthetic seen on Kidman to the thicker, branded soles favored by Blunt—the category may continue to broaden. Future sightings could see a further mix of luxury and sportswear labels as stars seek to balance comfort with the high-profile requirements of international film festivals and press junkets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which specific sneakers does Emily Blunt wear for travel?
Emily Blunt wears Axel Arigato’s $300 Clean Sneakers, a model she has used consistently since 2019.
What brand does Julianne Moore typically pair with her sneakers?
Moore frequently styles her Adidas Stan Smith sneakers with Bottega Veneta purses, such as the Barbara Tote and the Madison bag.
Are there other celebrities participating in this trend?
Yes, besides Blunt, Moore, and Kidman, celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez, and Dua Lipa have also been noted for wearing white sneakers while traveling.
Are you likely to prioritize comfort or brand recognition when selecting your own travel footwear?