You love your sneakers, right? They're comfortable and easy, and perfect for dressed-down times. Well, there's another breed of sneakers out there - that are just as comfortable and easy, but a little classier and a little more stylish. And this means that they're not just for bumming around - you can wear them to work (casually), on a date, or to a nice summer brunch. We're calling them sleek sneakers.
A sleek sneaker is just that - sleek, simple, straightforward. They're the opposite of tricked out athletic sneakers, and here’s how to spot them:
• They're either leather or suede.
• Details are minimal - no contrasting colors, no overly thick soles, no 'swooshes' or loud accents.
• The laces match the shoes - again, for little or no contrast.
The best thing is that they're just as wearable as your everyday sneaks, but so much more versatile. Check out how you can wear your 'sleek sneaks' throughout a late summer weekend. Try it, and your feet will thank you come Sunday night....
CASUAL FRIDAY
Didn't think you could wear jeans and sneakers to work? You can on casual Friday (or everyday if you're business casual). The secret is elevating every other piece you're wearing. Start with a sleek sneaker, dark wash jeans and a button-down. Add a tailored summer-weight blazer, and finish it off with a leather belt and daring pocket square. It strikes the perfect balance between Friday casual and snappy sophistication.
Blue textured linen/silk blazer by Suitsupply. Gingham shirt by J. Crew. Dark wash jeans by Reiss. Skull-print pocket square by Alexander McQueen. Leather strap watch by Mougin & Piquard for J. Crew. Grey suede sneakers, d-ring belt by Banana Republic.
SATURDAY DATE NIGHT
If you're looking for something a little unexpected for date night, a suit and sneakers fit the bill. In this case, keep the rest of your look low-key to take the formality of the suit down a notch. A simple (but well-fitting) henley and web belt keep it cool and casual.
Navy suit, pocket square by Suitsupply. Henley by J. Crew. Striped belt by Banana Republic. Sunglasses by Han Kjøbenhavn for J. Crew. Black leather sneakers by Lanvin.
SUNDAY BRUNCH
Sleek sneakers don't always have to be dark colored - in summertime, white ones are an ideal option. Show your style in plaid shorts and a simple crewneck sweater (a step up from cargo shorts and a sweatshirt). Then up the ante with a navy suede belt, leather wrap bracelet and classic aviators.
Cotton/cashmere crewneck sweater by J. Crew. Grey check shorts by Reiss. Navy suede belt by Suitsupply. Aviator sunglasses by Ray-Ban for J. Crew. Watch by Jack Spade. Leather hook bracelet by Miansai. Jack Purcell leather sneakers by Converse.
