I’ve been trying to find ways to wear sneakers with any and every outfit for pretty much my entire life. I love sneakers. When styled well, they can add an effortless and chic element to just about any outfit. They’re practical and comfortable, which are two things I want my wardrobe to be! If you’re new to wearing sneakers for more than just exercise or you’re just now sure if you’re styling them right, I’m breaking it all down below.
A classic, all-white sneaker might be my favorite kind. These are truly the most versatile pair you could buy. They’re an obvious match for jeans and a cardigan, but also look great with a summer dress and straw bag, black jeans and a leather jacket, leggings and an oversized sweatshirt, shorts and a lace top…most anything! (The only thing I personally wouldn’t wear sneakers with is a ballgown/black-tie/cocktail dress, but you do you, boo. I’m a firm believer in wearing what you like and feel good in, whatever that is!)
In the last couple of years, slip-on sneakers have become much more common (beyond just the classic Vans that everyone wore in middle school!). If you can find the right fit, they’re so comfortable and a great option! I love how easy they are to wear and that they can look a little more “refined” than lace-up sneakers. These days, you can find almost any color or pattern, too! I style this with almost anything, too. With the perforated material, I like to wear them when it’s warm out, with flowy dresses, shorts and tees or denim overalls.
If you want to be a teeny tiny bit edgier, you can go with a platform slip-on. I love these! They’re so comfortable – right out of the box, no need to break them in – and like that they’re just a little bit different having the platform sole. I like these for pairing with my faux leather leggings, with jeans and a chunky knit sweater, or with black denim and a pretty blouse.
Arguably the easiest kind of sneaker to wear would be a sporty sneaker. These work well with any athletic/workout clothes. If you want to take them to the next level, pair them with some skinny jeans and a sweatshirt or sweater. My tip for wearing sneakers with jeans is this: make sure there’s a bit of space (about an inch) between the bottom of your denim and the top/tongue of your sneaker. You want to be able to see a little bit of the ankle! If all of your jeans are too long, try cuffing them just enough to show some skin.
Another great option is getting a dual-purpose sneaker. These work well for working out and styling for athleisure outfits. I’ll throw these on with leggings and a sweatshirt, or paired with leggings, a casual top, and moto jacket for a little bit more polish.
My most-worn sneakers are these true athleisure sneakers. They don’t offer enough support for working out (for me), but since they’re super lightweight and comfortable, I can wear them all day long. These are always my go-to for athleisure outfits – leggings, sweatshirts, vests, you name it.
- Vince Warren Slip-On Sneaker in Black Suede (I’m between sizes, so I went up to my 1/2 size and they’re perfect!) // budget-friendly option
- Nike Air Max Motion Sneaker in Mauve
- Dr. Scholl’s ‘Scout’ Slip-On Sneaker in Bone Suede
- Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Ii Sneaker in White (TTS) // another option
- Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker in White/Black
- Vince Garvey Slip-On Sneaker in Antique Rose (if you’re hesitant about the platform, these are a great option!) // budget-friendly option
- Adidas Originals Flashback Sneakers in Black/White // another option
