Someseasonless clothing items, though technically a year-round option, feel most appropriately worn in warm-weather months. White sneakers are a perfect example. To me, white sneakers are to spring and summer what knee-high boots are to fall and winter: staples you can virtually style with everything and anything, which fit within the overall aesthetic of these specific seasons, and no warm-weather wardrobe is complete without white sneaker outfits.
At some point in the last two years, I became somewhat of a sneakerhead. I've started meticulously crafting a capsule wardrobe of fresh kicks, which now includes a white pair of sneakers by Sam Edelman. The first white pair of sneakers I've owned as an adult, these shoes pair well with just about everything, including blazers, dresses, denim, and leggings. To unironically quote 2004'sMean Girls, the limit does not exist when it comes to the endless white sneaker combinations you can put together with a quick skim of your wardrobe.
However, we understand how daunting it can be when wearing such a classic, crip white shoe, particularly if you're afraid your footwear will attract more attention or accidentally get super dirty (in which case, there are plenty ofways to clean them up). Whatever the hesitation, I can guarantee that once you slip on a pair of white sneakers, your wardrobe will feel complete.
Still doubting the shoe's versatility? We scoured Instagram for some examples below of white sneaker outfits you most likely already own.
To Enhance Athleisure
I know what you're thinking, "duh," right? But hear me out: White sneakers are the easiest way to elevate your athleisure, and that goes forallathleisure, be it a matching sports bra and leggings set, a graphic tee and shorts, or sweats. A fresh pair will brighten up your outfit, while beat-up kicks and tube socks add vintage flair.
As a Substitute for Heels
Oftentimes, people feel that a dress calls for formal(ish) footwear, but this is a myth I'm here to debunk. I've been a fan of the sneakers and dresses (or skirts) look ever since Sandra Bullock sported the aesthetic in the 1998 filmPractical Magicand, personally, think this is one'90s fashion trendworth adopting permanently. So, trade in your flats for a pair of cross-trainers or tennis shoes for a laid-back look that's also really comfortable (because, let's be honest, are we actually ready to go back to wearing heels?).
Slip Dresses Are the Spring 2022 Trend You Can Start Wearing Now, According to Celebrity Stylists
To Contrast a Monochromatic Outfit
As much as I love a matching moment, I'm also kind of tired of all themonochromatic loungewearI've collected since the start of the pandemic. If you, like me, are looking for some hint of contrast to break up the singular color palette (because if we have these sets, we might as well wear them), throw on a pair of white sneakers as you're heading out the door.
Jeans and a White Tee
A clean pair of white sneakers paired with a crisp white tee and blue jeans is a simple outfit that's stood the test of time for a reason: Coordinating your top to your footwear adds a subtle element of synchronization to your outfit — you're still holding on to the matchy-matchy aesthetic without going overboard. What's more, the classic combination of blue jeans and a white tee is simple and lax. However, if you're meticulous with your proportions,skinny jeanswith a tucked-in oversized T-shirt or baggy jeans with a form-fitting top can look very put together.
How to Style Fashion's Most Controversial Jeans Trend Once and For All
With All-Denim
The Canadian tuxedo is monochromatic by design, so, like matching sweat sets, it could use a bit of contrast, and there are a few different ways you can go about achieving this. For example,Katy Perry wore a tan Canadian tuxedofor a '70s twist on the traditional blue jean aesthetic, Gwen Stefani donned denim-on-denim with a pair of checkered slip-ons, andJennifer Lopez wore a Canadian tuxedocourtside with black stiletto buckle boots as her choice of footwear. You can opt for plain white sneakers to keep things simple yet classic.
As an Alternative to Flip-Flops
Packing for spring break or collecting items for summer vacation? Flip-flops are a must if you're heading to the beach, but if you're strolling along the boardwalk, reserve open-toe pairs for the sand and swap in white sneakers to go with your shorts and tank tops. White sneakers are multi-faceted shoes, so tossing them in your suitcase will save you space; plus, you won't need five other shoe options for day-to-night looks.
As a Neutral
If your outfit consists of a bold accessory or print that's meant to be the focal point of your 'fit, white sneakers bring a neutral element, letting the most colorful aspect of the ensemble shine the brightest.
Spice Up Your Style With These 11 Animal Print Outfit Ideas
With a Blazer
This pairing understands the "business casual" assignment. Professional on top and laid back on the bottom, a pair of white sneakers with a blazer says, "I'm cool, calm, and collected." However, if you need to make a beeline for the exit, you're out the door quicker than you would be in heels.