Effortlessly cute: New Balance’s new 204L adds “bow laces” to slim-sole sneakers
Satin laces and wavy details make this a pair of sneakers you can’t help but look at twice
Shoe trends have been interesting lately. People no longer want a purely sporty look or an overly sweet one; they’re drawn to something in between: clean and sharp, with a touch of softness. The new New Balance 204L captures that mood perfectly. With its slim sole, compact retro-inspired shape, and satin bow laces, the whole shoe feels even more endearing and easy to love.
- Related reading: Can’t get the collaboration version? The New Balance 204L went viral before it even launched, and both colorways are seriously tempting!
New Balance
The 204L follows the retro slim-sole trend that’s been big in recent years. Its slimmer upper and more streamlined proportions naturally make your legs look longer and more polished. What makes it even better is how New Balance works its heritage into the details. The almond-beige upper draws inspiration from the brand’s archival 425 model, using layered panels to create dimension. A row of half-circle wave details along the side looks minimal from afar, though up close, it reveals a touch of sweetness. Best of all are the laces that make your heart skip a beat: New Balance has added glossy satin bow laces, taking the shoe’s sporty style in a more refined direction. Tie them into a neat bow, or loosen them for a casual drape; how sweet you want them to look is entirely up to you. The EVA sole maintains the slim profile, giving the shoe an overall lighter look.
New Balance
New Balance
What makes this New Balance 204L so appealing is how perfectly judged its details are. It has a retro silhouette and soft embellishments, along with a sporty feel and everyday style. When a pair of shoes feels comfortable, easy to style, and has a touch of effortless sweetness, that’s probably exactly what we want to wear right now.
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- Laceless is even more charming: New Balance drops the 204V Mary Jane runners, plus the 204L in new linen shades
- Already planning how to style them for fall: New Balance’s popular Breeze Mary Janes get a suede update
- Ballet sneakers still aren’t fading out yet! ASICS’ new collab is covered in pearls and piercings — is this the next it sneaker?
