How to Wear the Marni x Hoka B3LS Sneakers, According to an ELLE Editor
Sneaker collaborations are nothing new to the fashion world, but it’s a rare sight when two brands form an unlikely pairing to create something that feels…undoubtedly cool. Such was the case when Marni and Hoka announced that they would be dropping a fresh take on the latter’s B3LS silhouette. To no one’s surprise, the result was a set of four candy-colored, puffy, chunky sneakers that carry an air of kitsch and camp that only a brand like Marni could execute in such a specific way—all with the performance and tech design details that make Hoka shoes earn their cult followings. Naturally, I had to try them.
I know for a fact that ELLE readers love cool sneakers, so this test-running the new collab was simply part of my job. It’s no secret that Hoka makes a good pair of walking shoes—particularly those that feature ample bounce and cushioning in every step; that’s the first reason I was keen on getting my hands on a pair. The next is simply that, when looking at the latest sneaker collaboration, the Marni x Hoka Bondi B3LS boasts a silhouette that challenges my sartorial choices. Though my personal style has a slight tone of streetwear, these sneakers felt firmly in that lane (in the best way), so I set out to find ways to wear them that fit my style.
My first thought upon opening the box: These are fun. No matter what color you get—Poinciana (red), Straw (yellow), Tourmaline (blue), or Bracken (brown)—you’ll receive sets of laces: a tonal rope style, a tonal flat lace, and a multicolored wide lace if you want some extra oomph. There’s also a fuzzy dust bag (hello, luxury), which puts an emphasis on Marni’s playful touch. My immediate thought after slipping these on? These are snug. It’s not unexpected, given the puffy nature of the silhouette. And while I wouldn’t suggest you need to size up, keep in mind that these might feel like a hug around your foot with some extra strength. As for how they feel to walk, I felt fully supported with every step.
I’m not going to lie—styling these put me out of my comfort zone (and I may have Googled “how to wear red sneakers” in the process of this story). Even my coworkers saw the shoes and mentioned how they were curious to see how to wear them. But, without a doubt, I can say that these will add a layer of cool to any ensemble you wear. As for how I decided to sport these, I typically opted for something baggier or longer on the bottom to lean into the puffiness of the shoe (what I am dubbing “The Chunk”) or, on other days, I chose to wear cropped pants and let the shoes stand on their own. I initially planned on styling these with at least one ensemble that showed my legs a bit more, but unfortunately the colder weather and rain weren’t the most permissive for that type of look. That said, if I was going to wear it for the warmer days ahead, I’d play with proportions and feature shorts or a mini skirt with a relaxed T-shirt or oversized sweater on top. For me, I let these shoes be the moment, but for you, they might be a quick pop of color you need to brighten up your ’fits (and FYI: Vibrant, unexpected shades happen to be one of ELLE’s top 2025 sneaker trends).
So, what are you waiting for? Head straight to Hoka.com or Marni.com to get your pair before these sell out—you know they will.