Once upon a time, dressing for work and dressing for comfort were mutually exclusive. To demand a powerful presence in the work place while looking sartorially on point required killer heels and pointed soles that took no mercy on our aching feet.
Good thing that times are changing. Maybe it’s a more relaxed office dress code, or the fact that we’re wearing sneakers everywhere that’s made it more acceptable now to sport tennis shoes to the office. Whatever it is, our sneaker collections are just truly ecstatic to receive the green light from HR. Finally, it has become possible to dress up like a total boss without subjecting your feet to physical torture. Here are just some style ideas on how to wear sneakers to work.
How to Wear Sneakers to the Office
1. Coordinates are the easiest way to go.
If you're unsure on how to elevate your sneakers, the no-brainer choice would be a printed blazer-and-trouser combo that will instantly polish up your look. Add in the sneakers for a cool, fuss-free vibe. Comfort all afternoon, guaranteed!
2. Balance it off with luxe fabrics.
Take cues from Aimee Song, who has mastered the art of dressing up the humble denim jeans and sneakers. Her secret? Pair it with modest tops, like a turtleneck, and layer on a satin blazer to spruce up the entire look.
3. Don a monochromatic look.
Following the same one-color scheme, pair a relaxed top like a sweater with culottes. These wide-leg trousers are a minimalist’s friend as they immediately dress up any outfit. Finish off the look with classic Adidas Stan Smiths.
4. Tweed 'n sneaks go well together.
There’s just something about tweed that feels so preppy and academic. Flip this sturdy fabric into a geek chic ensemble by donning a cropped blazer and a mini skirt, tucking in a white button-down and pairing with polished white tennis shoes.
5. Dress in oversized silhouettes.
Want to sport the trendy chunky sneaker to the office? Here's an easy way to do it: Ramp up the volume! Dress in oversized, baggy pieces to get that tailored look with a hint of streetwear's cool vibe.
6. Update your blazer.
When it comes to the workplace, you can never go wrong with a black suit—after all, it's a piece you can take from day to night. But careful that it can easily cross over to snoozeville if you opt for the plain ones. For a trendy update, look for ebony blazers that have interesting sleeve or lapel deets, much like Leandra Medine-Cohen's laced up blazer. It makes a nice contrast against sporty shoes, you bet!
7. Play with texture.
Here’s a masterclass on contrasting textures and fabrics. Soften the look of a structured and tailored piece such as a blazer with a fringe dress for a feminine touch. Cinch at the waist with a belt to accentuate the waist. Accessorize with classic and polished accessories such as a leather purse and vintage sunglasses. The outfit could work with a pair of black heels, but add a twist by sporting sneakers instead.
8. Dress in neutrals.
Think you can’t dress up your Converse sneakers? Let this look show you otherwise. Show off those ankles from your low-cut kicks by cuffing boyfriend trousers, with a streamlined top in white and a navy sport jacket—a professional yet relaxed look.
9. Ditch the lace-ups.
Checkered patterns will always look refined and dressed up. Cop a modern silhouette by wearing checks on a slim-cut suit. Get it in a nude or blush shade for daytime wear. Finish with a pair of chic velcro sneakers.
10. Team it up with classic patterns.
Navy is a classic and sophisticated color that’s welcome at the workplace. For dressed down Fridays, show up in a smart casual outfit that mixes comfort and propriety—think a Breton striped shirt over a collared shirt, with pleated navy chinos and proper leather sneakers.
11. When in doubt, wear black and white.
The right pieces can make the usually drab black-and-white office ensembles incredibly chic. Take this cropped white sweater tucked in black paperbag trousers for a stylish workplace uniform.
12. Sweeten it up with pastels.
Forget the drab and gloomy shades for a bit and try saccharine hues or candy-colored shades. The trick in pulling these colors lie in the shape of the garment. Opt for tailored pieces like a matching suit set and complete the relaxed look with sneakers that have a sleeker shape.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
