In today's world of designer sneakers, one brand stands out for establishing itself as a must-have for shoe collectors—even with its so-called "imperfections." Yes, we're talking about Italy-born Golden Goose and their renowned Super-Star and Ball Star sneakers, which have become the "it" pairs to own.
Far from your average kicks, celebrities such as Julia Barretto and Gabbi Garcia have been loving the shoe's familiar and casual silhouette, unique scuffed detailing, and of course its signature star emblem.
It has been a shoe closet staple for fashion girls—and now you can add it to your rotation, too! In case you missed it: Golden Goose opened the doors of their Fioreria Golden pop-up store in Greenbelt 5 last April 24, and we've got all the deets to convince you to cop a pair, stat!
What are Golden Goose sneakers?
While they may appear to be just another sneaker from a distance, closer inspection reveals the details that distinguish Golden Goose sneakers. They're characterized by their low-cut style and a star symbol on the outside of the shoe, but their rise to popularity can be attributed to the label's iconic distressed effect.
When you buy a new pair of sneakers, they usually arrive in perfect condition. Depending on the wearer, most would try to keep their pair as spotless as possible. With Golden Goose kicks, there’s no pressure to maintain their pristine condition because part of their allure is their "worn in" appearance. While this isn't for everyone, the shoe's scuff marks and stains are here to stay for those who love the effortlessly grungy vibe.
Who designed Golden Goose’s sneakers?
Francesca Rinaldo and Alessandro Gallo, two Venetian designers, founded the company back in 2000. When they first entered the fashion industry, the duo were business-savvy and passionate about bringing a vintage touch to the modern sneaker market.
Each pair is handcrafted and processed in Italy by local artisans to achieve the desired vintage style and to create the "perfect imperfection" effect with their distressed details. Don't be fooled by its appearance; despite its worn-in appearance, you're getting a well-made shoe when you buy a pair of Golden Goose sneakers. This innovative design resulted from the designers' idea to be the first scuffed shoes on the market, and it is what has made them one of the most distinct sneakers pairs of all time.
Where to shop Golden Goose in the Philippines?
Locally, you can shop at Golden Goose's Fioreria Golden pop-up store at the Greenbelt 5 Fashion Walk. Reminiscent of a classic Italian bottega or artisanal workshop, the fioreria or flower shop, plays with greenhouse-style architecture, vintage accents, and colorful hanging flower baskets to give the space an open yet cozy atmosphere.
True to the brand’s DNA of craftsmanship and individuality, the pop-up centers around a Co-Creation area where shoppers can customize pieces with floral accents, handwritten details, and embellishments of their choosing. With the help of the store's Dream Makers, guests at the opening, such as Maine Mendoza and Rhian Ramos were able to make their own mark on their Golden Goose sneakers, as well as the newly launched Venezia Bag.
What are the different kinds of Golden Goose kicks?
The Super-Star Low Top and the Ball Star Low Top sneakers are Golden Goose's two most popular silhouettes. Both are very similar, but the Super-Star has a lower-slung silhouette and a more minimalist design than the Ball Star.
Super-Star with black heel tab and metal stud lettering, $575 (approximately P31,987), GOLDEN GOOSE, goldengoose.com
Ball Star in nappa with white star and glitter heel tab, $595 (approximately P33,107), GOLDEN GOOSE, goldengoose.com
They have also recently launched the True-Star in 2025. A nod to retro sneakers, the thin sole, round laces, and suede detailing exudes a cool vintage twist.
True-Star in tobacco-colored suede with white star and platinum heel tab, $695 (approximately P38,671), GOLDEN GOOSE, goldengoose.com
Golden Goose offers a wide range of variations of their sneakers to suit everyone's taste. Although their sneakers are typically white, there are iterations of the shoe available in a variety of colors and fabrics, including animal prints, shearling, suede, and even glitter. If you want an elevated white sneaker, look for subtle differences in the star symbol, shoelaces, and heel tab.
Super-Star LTD in leopard-print pony skin with leather star and heel tab, $695 (approximately P38,671), GOLDEN GOOSE, goldengoose.com
Ball Star in suede with Swarovski crystals and pearls and leather star, $1650 (approximately P91,810), GOLDEN GOOSE, goldengoose.com
Aside from casual steppers, they also carry boots, ballerinas, loafers, and ready-to-wear apparel.
How much are Golden Goose sneakers?
The more basic the shoe you get, the more affordable it will be. Their classic white Super-Star and Ball Star sneakers will start somewhere around $575 (approx. P31,987) and up, but if you opt for their pairs that are more limited edition or with extra features, then be prepared to shell out more than $1000.
Are Golden Goose Sneakers worth it?
It all depends on the style you get, but if you want the most bang for your buck, a white pair of sneakers that will undeniably look good with any outfit will get you there. However, if you want to wear a statement piece every time, their more quirky design variations might be the right fit for you. In any case, purchasing a pair means getting a well-made shoe that is also extremely comfortable to walk in. What a win-win situation!
How do celebrities wear their Golden Goose shoes?
From trainers to cowboy boots, local celebrities have been loving their Golden Goose kicks, and we totally understand why! Here’s how some of them styled their pair:
1. Maggie Wilson famously brought only one pair of sneakers to match all her outfits during her trip to Europe and they just so happened to be these leopard-printed Golden Goose Ball Stars. If that’s not proof of the shoe’s versatility, then we don’t know what is!
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2. Add a sporty touch to your dainty OOTD by way of a pair of sneakers! As seen here on Claudia Barretto, she teamed her yellow gingham maxi dress with white Super-Star Low Tops.
3. Angelina Cruz cited her pair of Golden Goose Super-Stars as one of her favorite designer items while filming her "Designer Favorites" episode for Preview. And understandably so, her gold and silver kicks exude luxury but with a modern feel to them.
4. At the Fioreria Golden pop-up opening, Maja Salvador nailed boho chic by donning an all-Golden Goose 'fit. She matched her anthracite-gray paisley print shirt dress with a classic leather biker jacket, and the Wish Star cowboy boots.
5. You'd be hard-pressed to name a more fashionable press tour than Kathryn Bernardo's A Very Good Girl. The box-office queen made a bold statement by embracing a much edgier style, and her California kick-off in Chris Nick coords and Golden Goose Wish Star boots is proof.
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