How To Wear Sneakers: Men’s Step By Step Guide


Men, if you’re wondering how to wear sneakers this season, we’ve got good news. You can stop your sole-searching and read our ultimate guide for guys. Sneakers are a quintessential footwear option that belong in every man’s closet. Equal parts versatile and comfortable, they look sensational on anyone. Whether you’re heading to the basketball court or hanging with friends at your local brewery, sneakers are a sure-fire choice. We’ve got you covered on how to pull off these effortlessly cool and casual shoes.

Your How-To Guide for Essential Sneakers Styles

Before we explore how to wear sneakers, have confidence in knowing that men’s sneakers are meant for more places than just the gym. One of fall 2021’s key fashion trends, they come in many different shapes, materials and colors. From basic slip-on styles to polished leather trainers, the options are endless. With so many varieties to choose from, it can be difficult to know what’s what and how to pick the right pair. Luckily, we’re here to help.

How to Wear Men’s White Sneakers 

Hunting for direction on how to wear sneakers? Start with a men’s fashion lay-up: white sneakers. These classic shoes bridge the gap between smart and casual style, and go with just about anything. Comfortable and versatile? It doesn’t get much better than that. White sneakers truly deserve a spot in the men’s footwear hall of fame. Rest assured that your favorite white sneaks won’t be going out of style anytime soon. 

Wearing white lace-up sneakers with shorts in the warm months keeps you feeling and looking fresh. Select green shorts with a floral print, short-sleeve button-down for a daytime outing. Throw on your favorite shades, and you’ve got yourself a laid-back look for long summer days.

Take the jogger set trend up a notch by partnering it with a fresh pair of white sneakers. To pull off minimalist white sneakers with athleisure, play with proportions. An oversized hoodie matched with coordinating tapered joggers and white trainers creates a cool aesthetic. And just like that, you’re ready for anything the day brings.   

Expert Style Tip: Ever wonder how to keep your white kicks looking brand new? Apply a sneaker protector as soon as you take them out of the box. It works as an invisible layer to protect against dirt, stains and liquids. Treat any spots as soon as you see them, and re-apply the protectant one to two times a month. Your squeaky-clean white shoes can thank us later. 

How to Wear Black Leather Sneakers

Seeking a low maintenance alternative to a white sneaker? Black leather sneakers pack a serious style punch while staying easy to keep clean. It’s a no-fuss staple that serves up iconic style to instantly level up your look. Curious how to wear sneakers made of leather? Pick a pair of black lace-up leather sneakers with a white sole. Add on slim-fit chinos in a neutral hue, and get your outfit to the finish line with a checkered button-down. Don’t resist the urge to do a victory dance nailing this sharp casual vibe.

What to Wear With Men’s High-Top Sneakers

Ready to step up your sneaker game? High-top styles are a top choice among fashionable fellas. These men’s street style favorites are the epitome of classic cool. Kick an everyday jeans and T-shirt combo up a notch by sporting a pair of retro high-top skater sneakers. Layer on a suede bomber jacket for a major-league style statement for your weekend wandering.  

Expert Style Tip: Flaunt the high-top design of your rad kicks by rolling up your jeans. Bonus points for adding a fun pair of printed socks to showcase your personal style.

How to Wear Sneakers with Jeans 

Jeans are a man’s best friend for a reason—they go with a variety of shoes, including sneakers. Look no further than our tips on how to wear sneakers with jeans. Relaxed fit or bootcut jeans will swallow up your sneaks, so try a slim or skinny fit for optimum sleekness. Classic dark-wash blue jeans and a vintage henley go hand in hand with sporty sneakers. The bolder the shoe, the better.

For an easygoing look that pops, opt for black skinny jeans paired with bright red sneaks. Finish with a chambray button-down shirt worn open over a graphic T-shirt. Just add a snapback for some throwback vibes. Now, you’re crushing the sneaker style game.   

How to Wear Men’s Sneakers with Chinos 

Pondering how to wear sneakers with something a bit dressier than denim? Don’t be afraid to don your go-to sneakers with a polished pair of men’s chinos. The lines between casual and dressy are more blurred than ever, so why not take full advantage? For a straight-laced way to style canvas sneakers, grab a khaki chino with a tapered leg. Combine that with a light sweater layered over a button-down, and you’ve got yourself a sharp outfit for the office. 

The key to acing the sneakers and chinos pairing is making sure your pants fit properly. Choose chinos with no break in the legs, or give them a clean cuff at the hem. It’s also important to select pristine sneakers. Leave your well-loved sneakers for the weekend or after hours. These shoes are inherently casual by nature, but wearing them with chinos is an unexpected way to elevate your look. Dare to give it a go?    

 

What Socks Do I Wear with Sneakers? 

Alright guys, we can’t walk you through how to wear sneakers without touching on the socks to pair with them. If there’s one type of sock to have in your drawer, it’s crew length socks. This classic sock hits just below the middle of the calf, making it a comfortable option to pair with sneakers. Ankle socks are another sneaker-friendly option for guys who want less coverage. These reach right below the ankle bone, giving a clean look to your low-top sneakers.

The color of your sneakers plays a role in what kind of socks to set them up with. To play it safe, black sneakers and black socks are always a wise choice, and the same goes for white sneakers with white socks. But why not remix your options? Socks are a great way to add depth and personality to your apparel. It’s always a good idea to coordinate your outfit to your socks, but try experimenting with creative patterns and textures. 

Contrary to some beliefs, socks are essential to wearing with your kicks. You may think your feet are clean, but that won’t be the case if you decide to go sockless. Your feet produce an average of half a pint of sweat every day. If you like the look of no socks, try no-show socks with your favorite sneakers. It’s the best of both worlds, and your feet will thank you.

Can I Wear Sneakers to Work? 

Ever wonder if you can get away with wearing sneakers to work? Good news guys, we’re here to drop some tips for how to wear sneakers to the office. If your workplace is more lax, you can absolutely rock sneakers to work. There are a few things to keep in mind—wear clean sneakers with no holes or scuffs. Save your vibrant and worn-in kicks for the weekend. Another good rule of thumb is to keep it low-key. Take a note from Beckham and bend the rules, but don’t blatantly break them. 

Keep your look polished and professional. A tailored woven pant worn with a plaid button-down is nicely complemented by suave black sneakers. Think of this as a modern take on business casual. Tie it all together with black dress socks, and make sure they come up high enough to cover your leg while sitting. And just like that, you’re all set to go from desk to dinner.

If your dress code leans toward business formal, you might want to steer clear of sneakers at the office. Perhaps casual Friday is the exception. Don a pair of dressy leather sneakers with your go-to blazer and trousers for a decidedly dapper option. It strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined as workleisure. Have we convinced you?

Is it Ok to Wear Sneakers with a Suit? 

If done properly, the right sneakers can inject originality into your look and elevate a suit. And most importantly, they provide your feet with the utmost comfort that’s unmatched by derby shoes or oxfords. Translation: you can cut a rug on the dancefloor with ease. If you’re stumped on how to wear sneakers with a suit, no need to fret. We’ve got the answers for you. 

First things first: not all sneakers pair well with suits. While many sneakers are incredibly versatile, they’re no substitute for dress shoes when it comes to formal events. While you can get away with sneakers at casual gatherings, they’re not meant for every occasion. When it comes to attire for weddings and other semi-formal affairs, veer on the side of overdressed rather than underdressed. Now that we have that disclaimer out of the way, here are some tips on pairing sneakers with a suit.

Avoid looking like Forrest Gump sitting on a bench telling your life story to anyone that’ll listen with our tips. Consider the silhouette, color and material of your sneakers. Your best bet is to opt for sneakers with a minimalist design in a shade that complements your suit set. A pair of low-top beige sneakers is a nice accompaniment to a slim-fitting suit in grey or blue. Feeling adventurous with your style? Try a monochromatic look with navy sneakers and a sophisticated navy suit. Comfortable and contemporary—we call that a win-win.

Feeling ready to step up your sneaker game? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and ask your stylist for sneakers to elevate your looks. Remember, you’re never required to schedule more than one Fix at a time and shipping and returns are always free. Start adding sneakers to your closet, but don’t blame us when you become a sneakerhead.

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