Natalie Portman has drawn attention this summer by embracing a fresh footwear trend: chunky dad sneakers, seen during her appearance at the Christian Dior Cruise 2025 Show in Rome, Italy on May 27. Her new take on summer style, combining comfort with on-trend flair, demonstrates just how versatile this revived sneaker can be, making her look both practical and fashionable. The Natalie Portman chunky dad sneakers summer style has quickly caught the eye of fans and trend-watchers alike.
While many celebrities have stuck with streamlined sneakers in recent years, Portman’s switch to the chunky dad sneaker highlights a major shift in fashion preferences. Her head-to-toe Dior outfit included a sharp herringbone jacket, a sleek black undershirt, cuffed blue jeans, a beige canvas bucket bag, and cat-eye sunglasses, all finished off with designer kicks that carry a hefty $1,190 price tag.
But shoppers hoping to capture Portman’s footwear style do not need to break the bank. Affordable options are available that mimic her high-end look—most notably, the Beau Today Lightweight Chunky Sneakers, available on Amazon for just $71. These budget-friendly sneakers are designed to be both stylish and practical, allowing everyday fashion fans to mirror a luxury look for a fraction of the cost.

How to Recreate Portman’s Effortless Outfit at a Fraction of the Cost
Fashion icons like Natalie Portman are known for blending elegance with comfort, and her summer sneaker choice is no exception. The Beau Today Lightweight Chunky Sneakers echo Portman’s signature style through a thick 1.77-inch heel, mesh exterior, lace-up design, and ergonomic shape. These features work together to provide cushioned support, making them suitable for long walks or travel—whether strolling the streets of Rome or exploring a local neighborhood.
Beyond comfort, this sneaker has a polyurethane midsole that absorbs shock and a sturdy outsole for all-day wear. The breathable mesh material is perfect for hot weather, offering a solution for those looking to stay cool in the summertime. For anyone hoping to mirror Natalie Portman’s exact summer style, the silver colorway is the closest match to the pair seen on the actress.
These sneakers aren’t limited to casual outings. Thanks to their classic yet bold design, they can complement a wide variety of outfits. Pair them with tailored trousers, a blazer, and a chic tote for office-ready polish, or opt for leggings, a relaxed sweatshirt, and sunglasses to create the ultimate travel or airport ensemble. The versatility is one of the key appeals, moving easily from day-to-day wear to more put-together looks, much like Portman herself does.
More Chunky Dad Sneakers to Explore
While the Beau Today sneakers closely replicate Portman’s favored look, shoppers searching for alternative takes on the chunky dad sneaker trend will find several notable options. Other standout picks for those interested in expanding their shoe wardrobe include:
1. Steve Madden Possession Platform Sneaker, reduced from $100 to $60, which blends modern design with platform comfort.
2. New Balance 530 Sneakers, available for $92 (down from $100), providing a retro-inspired aesthetic perfect for both sporty and casual stylings.
3. Dream Pairs Platform Chunky Fashion Sneakers, now just $29 from an original $47, for shoppers looking for affordability without sacrificing appearance.
4. Project Cloud Chunky Platform Sneakers at $30, featuring a bold silhouette and cloudlike cushioning.
5. Lucky Step Platform Sneakers for $40, adding an easy-to-style, budget-friendly choice for fans of statement footwear.
Each of these sneakers delivers the chunky design made popular by Natalie Portman’s summer choice, ensuring that style seekers have plenty of ways to incorporate the trend into their everyday outfits. The range covers various prices, making it accessible for anyone inspired by Portman, designer brands like Dior, or fellow celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker or Dakota Johnson, who have also recently shown off summer trends.
Why Chunky Sneakers Are This Summer’s Must-Have Accessory
The renewed popularity of chunky dad sneakers comes as celebrities such as Natalie Portman, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Dakota Johnson inspire trendsetters to embrace shoes that combine retro shapes with all-day comfort. Unlike athletic sneakers—which often feel limited to gym or workout ensembles—the chunky style can pair well with both dressy and relaxed clothing, providing a solution for city strolls, air travel, and even more formal occasions.
Portman’s ability to seamlessly integrate a designer sneaker into an ensemble that balances Dior’s elegance with casual flair shows why the Natalie Portman chunky dad sneakers summer style is becoming a leading look. The accessibility of affordable alternatives, such as those available from Amazon or big-name brands like Steve Madden and New Balance, ensures admirers can stay on trend without splurging.
As summer progresses, chunky sneakers are poised to remain a staple, thanks to their practical design and the endorsement of high-profile personalities. Fashion enthusiasts now have the opportunity to step out with confidence, echoing Portman’s celebrated look and making a bold, comfortable statement for the season ahead.
