In a surprising twist of fashion, shoes from the early 2010s are now fetching up to four times their original price in the second-hand market. Once a staple of the decade’s wardrobe, these vintage shoes have transformed into valuable collector’s items, sparking a renewed interest in styles that seemed to fade out of the spotlight. So, what happened to make these once-ordinary pairs of shoes become sought-after treasures?
The Rise of Vintage Fashion and the 2010s Revival
It’s clear that the fascination with vintage fashion has grown far beyond a fleeting trend. People today are searching for clothing and accessories that carry a sense of history, nostalgia, and, often, a touch of rarity. Second-hand fashion offers more than just a sustainable option; it allows people to reconnect with past eras, sparking memories and emotions tied to specific times and places.
The 2010s, in particular, have made a striking comeback in fashion circles. The decade is still fresh in many people’s memories, evoking a time when social media was just beginning to shape the way people expressed their style. During that period, certain brands and items became emblematic of a generation’s aesthetic—one of effortless chic, casual comfort, and playful color.
One notable example is the colorful Bensimon sneakers, which were once everywhere. I remember owning six pairs myself, all in different colors, and I was far from alone. These shoes, known for their simplicity and comfort, have now seen their resale value skyrocket. Depending on the style, these vintage sneakers can go for up to four times what they cost when first released.
The Story Behind Bensimon Sneakers
The Bensimon brand was founded in 1979 by brothers Yves and Serge Bensimon, but it wasn’t until the 2010s that their iconic sneakers truly captured the public’s imagination. The sneakers had been a popular staple for years, but their resurgence during the 2010s can be attributed to a combination of nostalgia and the growing appreciation for timeless design.
The story behind these sneakers dates back to 1978, a year before the brand was even officially founded. Serge Bensimon, working with the company, was tasked with dyeing a large order of white sneakers intended for the French army. After successfully completing the order, he became fascinated with the process of dyeing the shoes. This passion led him to develop a method for coloring canvas without spilling over onto the rubber soles—a key innovation that would eventually lead to the creation of the Bensimon colored sneakers we know today.
A Collector’s Item Worth More Than Ever
Fast forward to today, and Bensimon’s signature lace-up sneakers have become a symbol of understated Parisian elegance. These sneakers, made of soft canvas with rubber soles, have captivated women of all ages—grandmothers, mothers, teenagers, and college students alike. Their minimalist design and versatile style made them the perfect go-to footwear for any occasion, from a casual day out to a laid-back weekend look.
The nostalgia attached to these sneakers, along with their authenticity and timeless appeal, has contributed to their newfound value. What was once an everyday, affordable item has now become a collector’s dream. Vintage Bensimon sneakers are regularly sold for prices that exceed their original value by two, three, or even four times, especially if they are discontinued styles no longer available in stores.
This phenomenon is part of a broader trend where vintage fashion from the 2010s is being rediscovered. Items that were once considered passé are now seen through a new lens, appreciated for their unique designs and the memories they evoke. The second-hand market for such items has become a thriving space where fashion enthusiasts and collectors are willing to pay a premium for pieces that can’t be found easily elsewhere.
The Legacy of the 2010s Fashion Scene
As we look back at the 2010s, it’s clear that fashion trends from that decade continue to influence contemporary style. From the popularity of sneakers to the rise of casual wear, the decade marked a shift towards more comfortable, accessible fashion that still managed to exude style. For those of us who lived through it, the Bensimon sneakers and other iconic pieces of the era represent more than just fashion—they’re symbols of a time when social media was just beginning to shape the way we engaged with the world around us.
In today’s vintage market, it’s not just about wearing a piece of history—it’s about experiencing the spirit of a bygone era. Whether you’re reconnecting with your teenage self or adding a unique piece to your wardrobe, these vintage sneakers serve as a reminder of the cyclical nature of fashion. What was once old is now new again, and in some cases, worth far more than it was originally priced.
So, next time you find a pair of Bensimon sneakers or any other iconic item from the past decade, remember that you might just be holding onto a vintage treasure that’s appreciated more than you could have imagined.
