Sneakers have long been a wardrobe essential that can be worn with literally anything. Plus, they’re super comfy, too! But in the subject of sneakers that anyone and everyone probably has in their shoe collection, one of them should be a pair of Vans. Although the American brand was first associated with skateboarding culture, ordinary folk have slowly learned to embrace the cool grunge appeal of this iconic shoe.
Whether you own a pair of checkerboard slip-ons or those chunky Old Skool kicks, there are plenty of stylish outfits you could wear them with. Since trends come and go but Vans will remain, we’ve rounded up trend-proof looks to wear that you could cop again and again as your sneakers become more well-loved:
1. A white tee and cuffed jeans
For a casual look that’s perfect for lazy days, put on a classic combo of blue jeans and a white T-shirt. We suggest wearing a loose shirt and boyfriend jeans for a tomboy chic vibe.
2. Printed tee and denim cutoffs
For hotter days, simply pair your favorite denim cutoffs with a printed tee for a casual rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic that model Kaia Gerber is obsessed with. This looks even better if your Vans are high-tops! If you want to take this up a notch, add a ton of jewelry like layered silver necklaces and stacked rings.
3. A white shirt and silk skirt
The slip silk skirt trend only emerged last year, but we’re betting its luxe casual aesthetic will become a classic down the line. Take this outfit for a spin on the streets by completing it with your checkerboard slip-ons. You can even “mix prints” by opting for animal print skirts instead of solid-colored ones.
4. Midi skirt and retro shirt
If your style is more classic, you can take cues from your kicks’ playful vibe by going for a clean retro look. We love how this ensemble stuck to the color red by donning a gingham midi skirt and a red-printed tee.
5. A hoodie and slip skirt
You know those days when you have to run errands but you can’t be bothered with dressing up so you just throw on anything? Well, here’s the trick to looking like you at least tried: Cop a silk skirt, match it with a cozy hoodie or an oversized shirt, and dress it down with your Old Skools. Sunnies are a must if you also can’t be bothered to converse with anyone while you’re out. There are days.
6. A day dress
For sunny days when baring a little skin is necessary to keep cool, nothing will be more refreshing than a day dress. Grunge it up with your Vans and match with black accessories like a leather crossbody bag or a bucket hat.
7. Overalls
For a look that can take you from the streets to the mall, consider wearing overalls. We particularly like this off-white iteration because it's a chicer alternative to typical denim overalls. If you want to further elevate the outfit, throw in a luxe leather purse and thin, chain necklaces.
8. An all-black ensemble
Leave it to Hailey Bieber to make sneakers look fresh and fashion-forward. Here, she steps out in black silk coords and a croc leather bag. If you want to achieve the same effect but want to tone it down a little, nix the silk pants for slim trousers instead.
9. Black cigarette pants with tees
Speaking of slim trousers, you can definitely use the piece to go with any of your casual tees or oversized shirts. Think of it as a foolproof streetwear combo! To make your look more interesting, wear black crew socks with your Vans. You can also throw on an oversized blazer for good measure.
10. Black and white outfit
If you’re hardpressed with finding outfit inspo, look no further than your sneakers! Match the checkerboard print of your kicks by donning a B&W ensemble like white trousers and a black tee, which you could French-tuck to make it look cooler.
11. Culottes and just about anything
Culottes are the everyday trouser of literally everyone in the metro. We’re sure you also own a piece, so why not give it a streetwear twist by sporting your Vans? For chill days, throw on a camisole or a tee. If you want to look more put-together, opt for a white button-down and feel free to knot the ends for a cropped look!
12. Mom jeans and a suit jacket
Veer away from streetwear style altogether by going for a vintage-inspired outfit instead. Our pick is this mom jeans-and-blazer combo with major ‘90s vibes—just look at that chunky belt! Instead of a T-shirt, go for a bodysuit or camisole to feel more comfortable.
13. A pantsuit
If blazers and pantsuits are right up your alley, dress down your look with your favorite pair of Vans a la Kristen Stewart. If you don’t own a pantsuit, take cues from Kristen who matched her navy blue joggers to a slim-fit blazer.
14. Longline coat and jeans
For a travel OOTD, swap your black booties for high-top Vans instead. They’ll give your outfit much streetwear cred and they’re more comfortable to walk in, too! Here, Alexa Chung pairs a black longline coat with distressed jeans.
15. Slip dress with a leather jacket
Another travel OOTD that incorporates Vans is this elegant slip dress unexpectedly paired with a leather jacket. It’s a statement-making look that marries feminine elegance and rock ‘n’ roll. Too cool!
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