Are you tired of always wearing the same old sandals or heels with your dresses? Why not switch it up and try pairing your dresses with high top sneakers instead?
Marrying the casual charm of high top sneakers with the elegant flow of dresses creates a look that’s both chic and comfortable. This style combination breaks the conventional fashion rules, blending the relaxed vibe of streetwear with the femininity of dresses. Whether you’re stepping out for a casual coffee date or looking to add a twist to your evening attire, high top sneakers, and dresses can harmonize beautifully to craft an outfit that stands out.
In this guide, we will explore the art of how to wear high top sneakers with dresses, offering tips and inspiration to help you confidently wear high top sneakers with dresses.
What are the Benefits of Wearing High Top Sneakers with Dresses?
High top sneakers bring a unique edge to any outfit, and when paired with dresses, the combination offers several benefits:
- Comfort: Dresses can be notoriously uncomfortable, especially when wearing heels or sandals. High top sneakers provide added comfort and support, making it easier to walk around for extended periods.
- Versatility: High-top sneakers can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or a night out with friends, they offer versatility and flexibility in styling.
- Effortless Style: High top sneakers add an effortless cool factor to any outfit, including dresses. You don’t have to overthink your look; simply throw on a dress and a pair of high top sneakers, and you’re good to go.
- Practicality: Wearing high top sneakers with dresses is also practical, especially in unpredictable weather conditions. You can easily navigate through puddles or grass without worrying about ruining your shoes or tripping over heels.
These are just a few of the many benefits of wearing high top sneakers with dresses. Now let’s dive into how to pull off this fashion-forward look.
What Will You Need?
Before we get into the styling tips, let’s quickly go over what you’ll need to achieve this look:
- A dress of your choice
- High top sneakers (can be any color or print)
- Accessories (optional)
That’s it! You don’t need anything fancy to rock this style.
10 Easy Steps on How to Wear High Top Sneakers With Dresses
Step 1. Choose the Right Dress:
When considering which dress to pair with your high top sneakers, think about the silhouette, length, and style of the dress. A-line, skater, and midi dresses with a bit of flow work exceptionally well with high tops as they create a balanced look. If you’re aiming for something edgier, a mini dress can offer a bold contrast to the chunky profile of the sneakers.
Opt for lighter fabrics like cotton or chiffon during the warmer months, and switch to denser materials like wool or denim in cooler weather. Remember, the key is maintaining a harmonious balance between your dress and your sneakers, ensuring one does not overpower the other.
Step 2. Select Your High Top Sneakers Carefully:
When selecting high top sneakers to wear with your dress, consider the color and style of both pieces. Classic white or black high tops offer a neutral base that pairs well with almost any dress. For a more vibrant or playful look, choose sneakers with bold colors or interesting patterns that complement or contrast with your dress.
The material of the sneakers can also influence the overall feel of your outfit – leather or suede sneakers add a touch of luxury, while canvas keeps it casual. It’s important to strike a balance that matches your personal style and the occasion.
Step 3. Mind the Socks:
Choosing the right socks to wear with high top sneakers and dresses can subtly influence the vibe of your outfit. Opt for no-show socks that remain hidden within your sneakers for a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. If you aim for a funkier, more playful look, select socks with bold colors, patterns, or embellishments that peek above your sneakers. The key is to ensure the socks complement rather than clash with your shoes and dress, enhancing your ensemble’s overall harmony.
Step 4. Layer for Added Texture and Warmth:
Layering is a fantastic way to add dimension and warmth to your outfit, especially during cooler months. Consider wearing a lightweight cardigan, denim jacket, or even a tailored blazer over your dress to create depth.
Layering keeps you warm and allows for more creativity in styling, enabling you to mix and match different textures and colors. When layering, keep the proportions in mind; a cropped jacket complements high top sneakers and dresses well, as it maintains the visual balance of the outfit by not overwhelming the figure.
Step 5. Accessorize Wisely:
Accessories can make or break your outfit when pairing high top sneakers with dresses. A well-chosen bag, statement jewelry, or a stylish hat can elevate your look from simple to simply stunning. Consider a crossbody bag for a relaxed vibe or a structured tote for something a bit more polished. When it comes to jewelry, less is often more; a few standout pieces can add personality without overwhelming your outfit.
Finally, a hat or a pair of sunglasses can not only serve a functional purpose on sunny days but also add an extra layer of coolness to your ensemble. The trick is selecting accessories that reflect your style while maintaining the balance and cohesion of your overall look.
Step 6. Play with Proportions:
Playing with proportions can greatly enhance how high top sneakers pair with dresses. If your dress is flowy or oversized, consider cinching it at the waist with a belt to create a more defined silhouette. This not only flatters your figure but also brings an element of sophistication to the casual nature of high-top sneakers.
Conversely, if you’re wearing a more form-fitting dress, your high tops serve to relax the look, making it more approachable and every day. Balancing the volume and silhouette of your dress with the casual, bulky nature of high top sneakers is key to creating an outfit that feels intentionally styled and effortlessly chic.
Step 7. Consider the Occasion:
The occasion should greatly influence how you style high top sneakers with a dress. For more casual events, feel free to play with bold colors and patterns in your dress and sneakers. However, for occasions that call for a subtler look, opt for monochromatic sneakers paired with a simpler dress, possibly accessorized with refined, minimalist jewelry.
Adjusting your outfit’s casual or sophisticated meter to match the event helps ensure you look appropriate without sacrificing style or personal expression. Remember, the versatility of high top sneakers allows for a wide range of styling options, from laid-back gatherings to more upscale casual affairs.
Step 8. Confidence is Key:
True style radiates from confidence. Wearing high top sneakers with a dress is about breaking traditional fashion rules and creating a look that’s uniquely yours. Carry yourself with confidence, and wear your outfit with pride. Remember, the most important element of any fashion choice is how it makes you feel.
If you feel good about what you’re wearing, it will show. Confidence can transform a simple ensemble into a standout look, so step out with your head held high and own your fashion choices. Whether you’re strutting down the street or making an entrance at a casual event, your confidence will ensure your outfit is seen and remembered.
Step 9. Experiment and Evolve Your Style:
Fashion is an ever-evolving landscape, and your style should reflect your personal growth and changes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different dress and high top sneaker combinations, as this will help you discover what truly resonates with your identity.
Try mixing up different genres of clothing, like pairing a punk rock dress with sleek, minimalist high tops or juxtaposing a romantic flowy dress with edgy, graphic sneakers. Each outfit is a new opportunity to express yourself and showcase your unique taste. Keep an eye on emerging trends, but always anchor your outfit choices in what feels authentic to you.
The evolution of your style is a journey, not a destination, so enjoy the process of experimenting and discovering new looks that empower you and make a statement.
Step 10. Maintain and Care for Your Sneakers:
Just as important as selecting the right high top sneakers for your dress is the care and maintenance of your sneakers. Keeping your sneakers clean and in good condition extends their life and ensures your outfits always look polished and intentional. Regular cleaning, depending on the material of your sneakers (leather, suede, canvas, etc.), will keep them looking fresh.
For leather sneakers, use a soft cloth and a cleaner designed for leather; for suede, a specialized brush can help maintain the nap; and for canvas, mild soap and water can do the trick. Don’t forget to protect them from the elements with a suitable protectant spray. This step is crucial for those who value sustainable fashion practices, as well-cared-for shoes require less frequent replacement and contribute to a more sustainable wardrobe.
By following these steps and tips, you can confidently wear high top sneakers with dresses and create versatile, stylish outfits that express your unique personality.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Play with Proportions: Pair your high top sneakers with a mini dress to elongate your legs, creating a flattering silhouette that balances the bulkiness of the sneakers.
- Mix and Match Styles: Combine a casual pair of high tops with a formal dress to achieve a stylishly eclectic look. This contrast of styles can add an unexpected edge to your outfit.
- Accessorize Wisely: Accentuate your look with accessories that complement both the dress and the sneakers. A minimalist approach works well; consider a statement watch or a chic backpack.
- Consider the Socks: Socks can be a game-changer when wearing high tops with dresses. Opt for no-show socks to maintain the illusion of elongated legs, or choose statement socks to add a pop of color or pattern.
- Keep the Color Palette Cohesive: Coordinate the colors of your dress and sneakers to ensure your outfit looks intentional. Matching or complementary colors can help tie the look together, making it appear more polished and unified.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can elevate your high top sneakers and dress outfit to new heights.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Overcrowding Your Look: Steer clear of wearing too many accessories or layers that can overshadow the simplicity and appeal of the high top sneakers and dress combination. Keep it sleek and simple.
- Don’t Ignore Proportions: Wearing long, baggy dresses with high top sneakers can make the outfit look disheveled and hide your shape. Aim for balance and proportion in your attire.
- Shy Away from Mismatched Styles: While mixing and matching can create a unique look, completely mismatched styles may create a confusing outfit. Aim for a thoughtful blend that speaks to your individual style.
- Avoid Wearing Worn-Out Sneakers: Ensure your high top sneakers are in good condition. Worn-out or dirty sneakers can detract from a polished outfit, making it appear unkempt.
- Don’t Forget About the Occasion: High top sneakers can be versatile, but they might not be suitable for every event. Consider the setting and dress code before pairing them with a dress to ensure your look is appropriate.
By avoiding these potential pitfalls, you can confidently rock your high top sneakers and dress ensemble without any fashion faux pas.
5 Different Style Inspirations
- Sporty Chic: For a stylishly sporty look, combine a flowy maxi dress with chunky, retro high-top sneakers. Add a denim jacket and statement sunglasses for an added edge.
- Girly Grunge: Mix a floral mini dress with edgy combat-style high top sneakers for a playful juxtaposition of styles. Accessorize with a studded crossbody bag and layered choker necklaces.
- Effortlessly Cool: Create an effortlessly cool look by pairing a graphic t-shirt dress with sleek, all-white high top sneakers. Add a leather jacket and oversized sunglasses for an edgy touch.
- Boho Chic: Embrace the bohemian vibe by pairing a flowy, printed dress with neutral-colored high top sneakers. Accessorize with a woven crossbody bag and layered beaded necklaces.
- Street Style: For a chic street-style look, pair a fitted bodycon dress with statement high top sneakers in bright neon or animal print. Complete the outfit with chunky gold jewelry and an oversized denim jacket.
With these style inspirations, you can mix and match different elements to create unique and eye-catching outfits that incorporate high top sneakers and dresses.
Can You Wear a Fancy Dress With Sneakers?
Absolutely! The key to successfully styling a fancy dress with sneakers is to find the right balance between dressy and casual elements. Opt for sleek, understated high top sneakers in a neutral color, such as black or white, to avoid clashing with the elegance of the dress.
You can also play with textures, such as pairing a flowing velvet maxi dress with leather high top sneakers, to add visual interest to the outfit. Accessorize with statement jewelry or a bold clutch to further elevate the look. The result? A cool and unconventional ensemble that is both comfortable and stylish.
So go ahead and experiment with different combinations of high top sneakers and dresses – there are endless possibilities for creating unique and fashionable outfits!
What Color Sneakers Go With Everything?
While personal preference and style play a significant role, some high-top sneakers can be more versatile and pair well with various dress styles and colors. Some safe options to consider are black, white, neutral tones (such as beige or grey), and metallics (such as gold or silver).
These colors can complement various dress colors and styles without clashing or overpowering the outfit. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with bold and bright colors for a statement look.
Ultimately, the key is finding a color you feel confident and comfortable wearing with your high-top sneakers and dresses. So, have fun mixing and matching different color combinations to create unique and fashionable outfits!
Conclusion
Wearing high top sneakers with dresses strikes a perfect balance between comfort and style, creating an ensemble that is as versatile as it is visually appealing. This fashion-forward combo caters to various tastes and occasions, easily adapting from laid-back casual to edgy chic.
By following the tips on how to wear high top sneakers with dresses and avoiding the mistakes outlined above, you can confidently incorporate high top sneakers into your wardrobe, making your dress outfits stand out in the crowd.
Remember, the key to mastering this look is the details—proportion, color coordination, and footwear condition. Whether opting for a sporty, chic, girly grunge or effortlessly cool vibe, your high top sneakers and dress pairing is a testament to your personal style and creativity.
Experiment with these looks; don’t be afraid to make bold choices. After all, fashion is about expressing who you are in the most comfortable and authentic way possible.
