8 White Sneaker Outfits You Definitely Have in Your Closet Already

Some seasonless 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. Looking ahead to spring 2022, I'm already mapping out my warm-weather wardrobe, with white sneaker outfits specifically at the top of the list.

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, from blazers to dresses, to denim and leggings. To unironically quote Mean Girls, the limit does not exist when it comes to the countless white sneaker outfits you can put together with a quick skim of your wardrobe.

However, if you're not used to wearing such a brightly colored shoe, sporting a white pair of sneakers can feel daunting. Maybe you're afraid your footwear will attract more attention or accidentally get super dirty (in which case, there are plenty of ways 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. And if you're still doubting the shoe's versatility, I've also scoured Instagram for some examples 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 for all athleisure, 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 film Practical Magic and, personally, think this is one 90s fashion trend worth adopting permanently. So, trade in your flats for a pair of cross-trainers or tennis shoes for a lax look that's also really comfortable (because, let's be honest, are we actually ready to go back to wearing heels?).

To Contrast a Monochromatic Outfit

As much as I love a matching moment, I'm also kind of tired of all the monochromatic loungewear I'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, but without going overboard. What's more, the classic combination of a pair of blue jeans and a white tee is simple and lax, but if you're meticulous with your proportions (i.e. skinny jeans and a tucked-in oversized T-shirt or baggy jeans and a form-fitting top), can look very put together.

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 tuxedo for a 70s twist on the traditional blue jean aesthetic, Gwen Stefani donned denim-on-denim with a pair of checkered slip-ons, Jennifer Lopez wore a Canadian tuxedo courtside with black stiletto buckle boots as her choice of footwear, and you can opt for a plain pair of white sneakers to keep things simple, yet classic.

As Opposed 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. Plus, because white sneakers are multi-faceted shoes, tossing a pair in your suitcase will save you space, because 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 outfit, white sneakers keep your footwear neutral, letting the most colorful aspect of the ensemble shine the brightest.

With a Blazer

This pairing understands the "business casual" assignment. Professional on top and laid back on the bottom, a pair of white sneakers worn with a blazer says "I'm cool, calm, and collected," but also, if you need to make a beeline for the exit, you're out the door quicker than you would be in heels.