Fashion

How to Wear Statement Sneakers with Every Outfit

And we do mean every. outfit.

By Gena Kaufman

Published on May 5, 2023 @ 10:55AM

A woman wears a patchwork suit and sneakers — Photo:
Getty Images

The days when sneakers were only worn for physical activity are long gone: The comfy shoes have been in their main character era for decades now. With more bold, high-end options than ever, a statement sneaker can add personality to any kind of outfit. From suits to dresses to leather jackets, there’s really no wrong pairing with the right kind of sneaker. Take a look at 12 ways to wear your statement sneakers anytime, anywhere, with anything.

With Cargos and Neon Accessories

A woman wears a pink jacket and sneakers — Getty Images

A chunky white sneaker is striking enough to hold its own amid a combination of statement pieces without adding too much to an already bold look.

With Neutral Layers and a Classic Purse

A woman wears a cream vest and sneakers — Getty Images

Weekend basics are a match made in heaven with sneakers, but adding a color-coordinating, polished handbag makes the look sophisticated and sleek.

With an Updated ‘80s Power Suit:

Eva Chen wears a pink coat and sneakers — Getty Images

A simple pair of white sneakers keeps a retro power suit style looking modern and cool, as Instagram's Eva Chen demonstrates here.

With a Hoodie and Leather Jacket

A woman wears a leather jacket, jeans, and sneakers — Getty Images

Get that model-off-duty look in cool-girl layers, the perfect jeans, and of course, dad sneakers.

With Barbie Pink

A woman wears a grey and pink outfit with sneakers — Getty Images

This Barbie is swapping her plastic heels for statement sneakers, and using pink only as an accent (it really works).

With a Skort and Cropped Top

A woman wears a crop top, green skort, and sneakers — Getty Images

An otherwise flirty, feminine outfit gets a dose of toughness with the right pair of sneakers.

With a Bold Suit

Crisp white sneakers are the perfect balance for an over-the-top colorful two-piece set, and still make that statement you're looking for.

With Head-to-Toe Neutrals

Olivia Palermo wears a beige outfit with sneakers — Getty Images

Statements can be subtle too: This beige look — shoes included — is anything but bland.

With an LBD

A woman wears a LBD and sneakers — Getty Images

A black dress and heels might be a classic going-out combo, but swapping for a pair of sneakers makes a date-night classic perfect for daytime too.

With Shorts and a Mid-Length Jacket

A woman wears a printed shirt, white coat, and sneakers — Getty Images

Show off some leg in high tops and short shorts — and throw on a faux fur coat if you need a little added warmth.

With an Oversized Blazer

A woman wears an oversized blazer, ripped jeans and sneakers — Getty Images

When in doubt, there’s no cooler combo than ripped jeans, an oversized blazer, and a major pair of sneakers.

With Formalwear

A woman wears a ruffled pink gown and sneakers — Getty Images

A pairing that truly breaks all the rules in the best way: A frilly, bejeweled gown meets laid-back high tops. You can't not try it.