"Call them chunky, clunky, or plain old ugly," Balenciaga's Triple S Sneakers ($850) could be the most sought-after casual footwear of the season. On fashion runways and among the rich and famous who line them, intentionally unattractive sneakers are a fresh way to say, "Look at me." At a glance, the Triple S could be an '80s running shoe — one that's been "salvaged from a thrift store and plopped atop a sole that's two sizes too big." But the first shipment sold out almost instantly in Manhattan, and the sneaker is selling at twice its retail price on eBay. Gucci, Dior, and Prada are currently playing catch-up.
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