The Autry Medalist Low sneaker is making waves in Los Angeles, thanks to its retro style and the endorsement of celebrities like Katie Holmes.
In recent months, a notable trend in sneaker fashion has emerged, particularly in urban areas like Los Angeles, where the Autry ‘Medalist Low’ is taking center stage. The retro influence in sneaker design has been pronounced over the past five years, with brands like Adidas and Puma leading the resurgence of vintage aesthetics. However, the Autry model is carving out its own niche, marked by sharper, cleaner silhouettes that maintain a connection to classic styles.
The Autry brand originated in Texas during the early 1980s, quickly gaining recognition for its unisex tennis shoes. Among its offerings, the Medalist model became especially prominent. However, following the death of founder Jim Autry in 2009, the brand fell into relative obscurity. The turn of events in 2019 saw a revival of Autry, with a relaunch that reignited interest in its classic designs.
The Medalist Low has been spotted in various stylish neighborhoods across Los Angeles, with frequent appearances in Silver Lake, Echo Park, and West Hollywood. The sneaker has also become a staple in Erewhon, a health food store known for its popularity among celebrities. This burgeoning presence in key locations signals a significant trend on the horizon for sneaker enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.
Celebrities have played a significant role in the sneaker’s growing popularity. Notably, actress Katie Holmes has been frequently seen sporting the Medalist Low, with her outfit choices reflecting a preference for the nostalgic design. According to reports, on only a handful of occasions in the last few months has she been photographed without her go-to sneaker. Other notable figures, including Reese Witherspoon and Kevin Costner, have also embraced this particular model, adding to its visibility.
The rise of the Autry Medalist Low has not gone unnoticed in the sneaker community. Adam Cheung, a sneaker and street fashion journalist, mentioned in British GQ that “you can’t talk about alternatives to Adidas Samba without mentioning Autry’s Medalist Low.” He underscored the brand’s relative quietness in the competitive sneaker landscape and pointed out that the model’s key advantage is its ability to seamlessly incorporate a vintage flair into modern fashion without any overt effort.
While the Medalist Low has not yet reached ubiquity, its classic aesthetic appeals widely to stylish individuals and casual sneaker enthusiasts alike. With its minimalistic design and 1980s origins, the sneaker offers a versatile option that pairs well with various outfits, especially denim, as demonstrated by Katie Holmes and other trendsetters in Los Angeles. The trajectory of the Autry Medalist Low suggests that it may soon become a staple within the ever-evolving sneaker culture.
Source: Noah Wire Services
