Lanvin Sneakers

Lanvin opened its doors in 1889 as Jeanne Lanvin’s hat atelier and grew into France’s oldest couture house still in operation. That history is present in every stitch: while many brands treat sneakers as an afterthought, Lanvin approaches them as couture for your feet. So don’t expect a throwaway shoe, but a piece built like a tailored suit — layer by layer, with an eye for the hands that made it.

The model that put the house on the sneaker map is the Lanvin Curb. An unapologetically hefty runner with a wavy, inflated sole and layers of leather, suede and mesh tumbling over one another. Where most luxury sneakers whisper, the Curb calls out — and that is precisely what made it a statement among people willing to stand out. Made in Italy, with a finish you only truly appreciate when you hold it.

Not every Lanvin makes quite as much noise. Alongside the Curb, there is a cleaner line: the DBB1 in full-grain leather for those who prefer to keep things clean, and the Bumpr, a nubbed nylon runner with a sportier edge. If you’re looking for a first luxury sneaker with character, the Curb is the logical choice; if you want something that works just as well with a suit or jeans, the minimalist DBB1 is the better option. Good to know: because of its generous sole, a Curb often fits a little roomier, so if you’re between sizes, consider how snugly you want to wear it.

Lanvin sells through multiple retailers, and they don’t always list the same price or offer the same colour palette. It’s worth browsing the affiliated shops before you choose — that way, you can see at a glance where your size and preferred colourway are available at the best price.