Limited-edition obsession: Why Gen Z can’t get enough of statement sneakers

Limited-edition sneakers: The beauty of the sneaker trend lies in its versatility. Today’s limited-edition pairs are just as at home under a designer gown as they are with joggers (Images: Comet)

What began as streetwear’s most democratic accessory has now evolved into a powerful form of self-expression. To this generation, shoes are more than something you wear; they’re a reflection of who you are, what you value, and the communities you belong to. From morning coffee runs to red carpet events, sneakers are no longer confined to casual wear — they’re styled with suits, saris, and everything in between. For the youth, the sneaker is a badge of identity, worn with pride and intention.

The hype for the drop:

In a world obsessed with individuality, limited-edition sneakers are the new collector’s items. These aren’t just shoes; they’re stories wrapped in laces. Every design tells a tale of collaboration, creativity, and culture. Utkarsh Gupta, Co-Founder of Comet, explains the philosophy behind this movement, “Each design or collaboration represents something deeper: the values they align with and the stories they want to tell. Take, for instance, the collaboration with Naru Noodle Bar celebrating Bangalore’s vibrant culinary spirit. Or the partnership with Monopoly, which taps into nostalgia and the joy of shared memories with friends and family. For Gen Z, it’s about more than style — it’s about meaning, belonging, and self-expression. Each drop goes beyond sneakers; it’s a story told through design, craft, and culture.”

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What makes these limited editions so desirable is the blend of creativity and scarcity. The excitement around each drop has turned sneaker shopping into a cultural ritual with queues forming outside stores, online lotteries, and countdowns to release times.

Social media and the sneaker story:

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have only amplified this obsession, transforming sneakers into digital storytelling tools. Each unboxing, outfit post, and resale snapshot becomes part of a larger narrative — one that connects global sneakerheads in real time. A rare pair isn’t just footwear; it’s a digital flex and shorthand for taste and authenticity. Celebrity stylist Karann Sethi believes the limited edition shoes are the new “it” accessory for fashion insiders.

He says, “We have seen brands like Balenciaga, Nike, Gucci, Dior and Louis Vuitton etc. collaborate with various artists, designers and athletes to create special-edition sneakers, and despite the high price, these pairs were sold in no time. There’s a huge pre-love market for these limited-edition pieces and sometimes the re-sale value is ten times more than the original ones. A limited-edition sneaker is easy to pair with anything and everything, and a fabulous conversation starter among peers.”

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Styling statement sneakers:

The beauty of the sneaker trend lies in its versatility. Today’s limited-edition pairs are just as at home under a designer gown as they are with joggers. Gupta shares, “The secret to styling statement sneakers lies in balance. Clean silhouettes, neutral tones, and elevated essentials — think tailored denims, a crisp oversized shirt, or a structured tee —  allow your sneakers to take the spotlight with effortless ease. Pair bold, expressive designs with timeless wardrobe staples to create a look that feels intentional yet understated.”