Yes, you can wear your sneakers outside of the gym, but there are rules! Okay, okay, I know some are eager to say that it’s just fine to mix the two, your gym shoes and your non-gym sneaks, but really … unless you are in a pinch, there are better choices to make than to wear your stinky running shoes to dinner. When not trying to sweat, take it up a notch with tried-and-true brands (think Nike, New Balance, Converse), since the retro sneaker look is HUGE. And consider some slip-on sneaks, as these may just be your go-to shoe that puts some spring in your step. Whether it’s sneakers with jeans or with skirts and dresses, we have five tips to share so you’ll know how to wear sneakers with jeans … and even skirts!
How to Wear Sneaker with Jeans and Skirts
Tip #1: Cuff those pants and show your ankle bone.
When wearing sneakers, make them a statement … something to show off. The best way to do that is to make sure they are seen, so your pants need to fall right above your ankle bone. Cuff them, hem them, cut them. Do something to make them that perfect length.
See? Ankles must show. Image credit: The Darling Detail
Here are a few of our favorite sneakers to pair with cuffed pants:
This pair features a monochromatic palette that fits today’s athleisure trend. These, by Adidas, are $98. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
These Nike React Free Run Flyknit Running Shoes hit the perfect point on your ankle to give a flattering look when paired with cuffed jeans. And since these are made with lightweight material and sock-like fit, they’re ultra-comfortable and don’t require socks. These, by Nike, are available in multiple shades for $120. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
We love these simple sneakers for any casual outfit. They’re snug, yet breathable and flattering with a pair of blue jeans or dark denim. These, by Dr. Scholl’s, are $99.95. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
Tip #2: Don’t wear socks, or at least don’t let them show.
This one can be hard, I know. Especially if you like the espadrille take on your sneaks or slides, as that roping is just not comfy. So find some low-rider socks that don’t show if the thought of naked feet in your closed-in shoes makes you squeamish.
See? No socks. Socks have no place at all in this look. Are we clear? No visible socks! Image credit: Glamradar. com
Warm weather, cold weather. It does not matter. No visible socks! Image courtesy: verilymag.com
Tip #3: Go for a solid color or classic look.
For most of us, a solid color or maybe just some classic stripes, or a pair of slides with a classic print like leopard, is really all we need. And look at the pictures throughout this article … notice the retro vibe that is consistent with all of these sneakers? Yep, these aren’t your fancy running shoes, but your super comfy, all-day shoes.
The white jeans, cuffed, with black Converse looks chic and spring-tastic. Of course, the Celine bag casually thrown to the side doesn’t hurt … Image credit: bloglovin.com
Another black pair, this time as slides, with which you are to assume all the same rules as sneakers. Interchangeable! Image credit: looktastic.com
Your sneakers don’t have to be a neutral color. These bright pink sneaks with maroon laces are super cute! Have you noticed how more and more fashionable women are consciously coordinating colors like the pink here? Image credit: hellofashionblog.com
These leopard slip-on sneakers look just as good with jeans as they do with a casual dress. Image credit: bloglovin.com
The classic Converse style looks flattering with a number of bottoms, are easy to style, comfortable and on-trend. These are $50. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
Or kick it up a notch with these platform slip-ons. These are ideal for that comfortable, yet chic look. These are $81.95. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
Tip #4: Sure, wear them with a dress or skirt, just be careful.
Admittedly, this is almost painful to write, as I just can’t help but conjure up the sight of long skirts, socks, sneakers and fanny packs. But a thoughtful approach to elevate the style of the sneaks and be modern and playful to boot CAN happen. Just look at that photo above! But be careful, okay? It’s harder than it looks to showcase this skirt + sneakers look without looking like a 1980s secretary. Tips for how to accomplish this look are found in the captions below.
The skirt falls just above the knee and is paired with a chic crossbody bag. This look says, “I have a lot of walking to do today, but I’m still stylish and fearless!” Image credit: theblossomgirls.com
How adorable is she? While we may not all be able to wear patterned, colorful sunnies with such panache, we can wear a summer denim dress with bright sneakers! The pop of color in the bag helps bring this whole look together. Image credit: brit.co
Okay, I get that Viviana Volpicella is all that and a bag of chips. I do. That skirt makes me yearn to sell my car to afford it. BUT I hate the mid-length skirt with sneakers. She can pull it off, yes. 20-something? Go for it. Beyond that, it’s way too easy to get this look wrong—unless you have a photographer following you around, which lets everyone know your “what is she wearing?” is really a fashion statement. Image credit: Style Du Monde on WhoWhatWear.com
Tip #5: Grab a couple pair and some of those low-rider socks
It’s summer, and there will be times you will welcome not showing off your pedicure, which needs some work. A closed-toe slide or two or a sneak that makes you happy will be a welcome relief from flip-flops and such.
Here are the socks you need:
These Nike no-show socks are ideal when wearing slip-on sneakers, Vans or any tennis shoes that hit the ankle bone to ensure they remain unseen. And these have a silicone heel pad so you’ll never have to deal with the frustration of your sock slipping off while walking. This set of three, by Nike, is $14. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
And, our pick? We’re still loving the Nike Cortez, which had a moment in 2016. We’re also loving the Classic Adidas Superstars, which have made a major comeback this past year and the Veja old-school lace-up sneakers with the ever-popular millennial pink pop of color are being styled by bloggers and fashionistas alike. But, pick what you like best and enjoy! Your feet certainly will.
We dedicated an entire article to these shoes. Just $70 and oh-so-cool! Buy them at Nike.com
Veja’s eco-friendly vegan sneakers have just the right pop of color. These can be found at Madewell for $100. Details here.
We’re seeing these classic and timeless sneakers everywhere. These, by Adidas, come in five color combinations for $80. Details here. Image: Nordstrom
