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Sorry, Sambas—Camila Cabello's New Adidas Sneakers Are On Sale and So Overlooked

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The Adidas Samba's resurgence has been undeniable—until now. Camila Cabello's collaboration, initially a major buzz, is quietly enjoying a remarkable sale, making it an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a coveted classic. I’m grateful to the pop star for first bringing this style to my attention. It’s a testament to timeless design that even a flash-in-the-pan moment can lead to lasting appeal. For more smart shopping finds that elevate your look without breaking the bank, explore "The Smart Shopper Edit."
 Sorry, Sambas—Camila Cabello's New Adidas Sneakers Are On Sale and So Overlooked

The quiet shift in sneaker trends is fascinating, isn’t it? While the Adidas Samba has undeniably reigned supreme for a considerable period, the spotlight’s slow turn towards Camila Cabello's favored Adidas Taekwondo sneakers speaks to a larger movement within the fashion landscape – a move away from aggressively hyped items towards understated, quietly cool choices. It’s a rejection of the clamor, a preference for something discovered rather than dictated. This echoes a sensibility we’ve seen gaining traction across various categories, as evidenced in our recent "The Smart Shopper Edit: 20+ Under-$350 Pieces That Look More Expensive Than They Are" The Smart Shopper Edit: 20+ Under-$350 Pieces That Look More Expensive Than They Are, where the emphasis is on quality and timelessness over fleeting trends. The Cabello effect – a celebrity subtly influencing style rather than overtly promoting it – is a potent one, demonstrating the power of authentic personal preference over manufactured desire.

The Samba’s ubiquity, while a testament to its design, arguably contributed to its decline in desirability for some. When something becomes *too* visible, it loses a certain allure. The Taekwondo, with its slightly more obscure heritage and distinct, almost vintage aesthetic, offers a fresh alternative. It’s the kind of shoe you stumble upon, a discovery that feels inherently more personal and stylish. Consider, too, the broader cultural context; the rise of “coastal grandmother” style and the ongoing embrace of quiet luxury—trends that prioritize comfort, quality, and a sense of effortless sophistication—all contribute to a climate where a less-is-more approach to footwear feels particularly relevant. The resurgence of interest in vintage sportswear, a theme explored in our piece on Cardi B's Old Navy jeans Cardi B x Old Navy Jeans Are Back in Stock, and I'm Getting Another Pair, also plays a role – people are seeking authenticity and a connection to the past, and the Taekwondo’s slightly retro design aligns perfectly with that desire.

This isn't simply about sneakers; it’s about a broader shift in consumer behavior. We're moving away from the relentless pursuit of the "it" item and towards a more considered approach to style. It's a reaction against the oversaturation of the market and the constant barrage of influencer marketing. People are craving authenticity, and they're increasingly attuned to the difference between genuine personal style and manufactured trends. The fact that these sneakers are being overlooked, in a way, is precisely what makes them desirable. It’s the embodiment of understated cool – a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to shout for attention. The appeal lies not just in the shoe itself, but in the feeling it evokes: a sense of being in the know, of having discovered something special before everyone else.

Ultimately, the rise of the Adidas Taekwondo, quietly championed by Camila Cabello, signals a fascinating evolution in the sneaker landscape. It’s a reminder that true style isn’t about chasing the latest hype; it’s about cultivating a personal aesthetic rooted in authenticity and effortless elegance. The question now is, will other brands take note of this shift and prioritize quiet influence and understated design over aggressive marketing campaigns? Or will the pendulum swing back towards the relentless pursuit of the next viral sensation? The answer, undoubtedly, will shape the future of fashion for some time to come.

I completely underestimated the sneakerhead side of Camila Cabello. In true celebrity fashion, her shoe rack is stocked with Adidas Sambas. But this summer, she widened her horizons to the brand's leopard-print Taekwondos and, most recently, a new-to-me pair of slim sneakers.

Name any best-selling Adidas sneaker, and chances are, I have it. Even so, Cabello might be more loyal to the athletic label than I am. On August 12, she traded Sambas, Taekwondos, and Tokyos for the fairly overlooked Barredo Lo sneakers.

Camila Cabello traded Adidas Sambas for the Barreda Lo sneakers

Camila Cabello showcased her underrated Adidas Samba swap around L.A. (Image credit: Backgrid)

Cabello's low-profile pair launched earlier this year. The style resembles the Adidas Japan silhouette, with familiar features like suede T-toe boxes, perforated uppers, and slightly slanted outsoles.

Though visually similar, the styles differ in price. With a synthetic, rather than leather, upper, the $70 Barredo Los could give the $110 Japans some wallet-friendly competition. What's more: The "Señorita" singer's exact pair is currently on sale—for $53.

Running sneakers and Sambas were Cabello's Adidas uniform back in 2019. Recently, she has been stepping outside her comfort zone. Just last month, she showcased Taekwondo sneakers on Instagram, featuring Mary Jane-inspired lacing, burgundy trim, and pony-hair leopard print. Just like the Barreda Los, the sneakerinas were a far cry from the black-and-white Sambas she once wore nonstop.

Clearly, Cabello's taste in trainers is evolving. Yours can, too—shop the Adidas Barreda sneakers below.

Shop Adidas Sneakers Inspired by Camila Cabello

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