Move over stilettos, wedges, and other uncomfortable shoes of the past! Sneakers have taken over the world of fashionable footwear, and they’re here to stay.
Tennis shoes can be dressed up or down to create street-style looks straight out of Fashion Week. Want to get in on the comfy trend, but don’t know how to add them into non-athletic outfits?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s how to style your favorite sneakers with jeans, skirts, and everything in between.
General Tips
In fashion, as in life, the rules are made to be broken. Even so, following these three tips will help elevate your sneaker game to cool-girl status in no time.
Invest In No-Show Socks
Unless you’re specifically using your socks to make a statement, seeing them peek out over the top of your tennis shoes is a no-go. Regular socks shorten your leg line and make an outfit look less pulled together, so get some non-slip no-show ones instead.
Retro Is In
There’s a reason the classics became classics in the first place. Retro-styled Nikes, Adidas, and Vans are some of the most versatile shoes around. They’ll match your favorite joggers and your cutest dresses equally well.
Go Monochromatic
If you’re only going to invest in one or two pairs of sneakers, choose some with a clean, monochromatic color scheme. Yes, that means passing up the fancy, multi-colored running shoes in favor of a more modest set. Get at least one pair in a neutral color like white, gray, tan, or navy to get the most mileage for your money.
Sneakers With Jeans
Want to know the number one rule for wearing jeans with sneakers?
Cuff them.
Or roll them up, cut them off, or just choose a cropped style—whatever you do, make sure your jeans stop at the perfect length right above your ankle bone. Choose skinny or tapered cuts over flares. Otherwise, your sneakers may get lost in bunched-up fabric.
Because denim jeans are considered to be neutral, you can get away with wearing more vibrantly colored or patterned sneakers. Have some fun with this look and make your shoes the stars of the show!
Short Skirts and Sneakers
Remember the tip about not letting your socks show? Wearing shorter skirts with sneakers is one time you can absolutely break that rule and still look fabulous.
Try out some low-top sneakers with a coordinating pair of mid-calf socks for a fun, timeless look. Just make sure it looks like they’re supposed to be showing—those low-cut running socks can take your outfit from cute to tacky in a heartbeat.
Sneakers and Dresses
Pairing a light, feminine dress with a masculine sneaker creates a trendy, effortless outfit that’s perfect for spring and summer. To put a 90’s spin on this look, try a slip dress with some chunky low-tops or platform sneakers.
Midi and maxi-length dresses mix well with a simple white shoe. But if you’re more of a t-shirt dress kind of person, go full-on “cool girl” with an oversized denim jacket, aviators, and a pair of high-tops.
Sneakers With Formal Wear
You read that right—combining trainers with formal suits and dresses is not only doable but très chic!
When you’re making a daring statement like this one, stick to a simple, neutral shoe. Slip-on Vans in black, white, or tan can help you transition an office look into a date night outfit with ease. And, as an added bonus, feeling comfortable but put-together in your work outfit may make you more productive while on the clock!
Become a Sneaker Style Icon
Sneakers are arguably the most versatile footwear choice out there. And with all the classy options available today, this is one trend we can definitely get behind.
Whether you’re wearing your sneakers with jeans or a power suit, follow these tips and your outfit is sure to be a hit.
Looking for more outfit inspiration? Check out the StylesWardrobe blog to learn more about developing your own unique style!
