With the rise of athleisure as a multi-billion dollar industry, everyone is rushing to grab items that are as stylish as they are functional. In the past, sneakers were only worn in the gym, on the court and on a hike, but thanks to athleisure the fashion sneaker is the new “it” item.

Independent sneaker brands are paving the way for new, lightweight, everyday footwear that works better on the street than it would in the gym, and historical sneaker titans like Nike and Adidas are creating iconic, customizable footwear that works with the wearer’s style and personality.

Here are three ways for your sneakers to up their game:

Classroom

 

Dashing across campus shouldn’t require premium running shoes. Go for a pair of lightweight sneakers with easy laces that do not require constant re-tying throughout the day. Light material allows for easy slip-on when you’re rushing out the door. The thicker sole cushions your foot and reduces shock when pounding the pavement, and the sloped design is on trend and aerodynamic.

For everyday casual wear, choose neutral tones like sand, teak or beige that go with anything in your closet from jeans to khakis. Casual fashion sneakers are my go-to for each school day. Pairing them with everything from ripped jeans to skater skirt to bodycon dresses, sneakers provide the comfort and effortless cool needed to make a style statement on campus. Some brands of choice that make sneakers fashionable again include Native Shoes, Cortica and Adidas.

Night Out

 

Sneakers may be most guys’ nightlife staple, but ladies often sacrifice comfort for style. Who says sneakers can’t be festive and stylish? Pair sneakers in a funky print and material like leopard, silk or sequins with a slinky curve-hugging dress or a sexy jumpsuit. Distinct prints flip the script on the casual sneaker, turning them into a head-turning fashion statement. If you have a pair of plain old sneakers you’ve been thinking about throwing giving away, try DIY. Draw on them with fabric markers, glue on funky rainbow poms or use mod podge to apply glitter.

While these fancy kicks may not hold up in the gym, they definitely will hold their own on the street-style catwalk. Leopard print sneakers are my item of choice when wanting to make a subtle statement with my footwear. The shoe design is utilitarian, but the print packs the punch. I like to create a retro vibe by wearing them with something red à la Marilyn Monroe or sport them with an all-leather look. For fun day to night sneakers, try Aldo and Superga.

Weekend

 

Sneakers for weekend wear should be comfortable, but a step up from your everyday footwear. Depending on your weekend activity, ranging from shopping to concerts, skate sneakers hold up in style and comfort. The waffle sole provides excellent traction and the right amount of weight to avoid slippage, while the high-top design protects your foot in high traffic situations while looking cool tucked in or outside of a pair of skinny jeans or with a pair of high-waisted shorts.

Have fun with your color choices for weekend sneakers so that they work with your closet and personal style. For the street-style beginner, you can never go wrong with monochrome. Skate sneakers are my weekend favorites, but any sneaker that looks good in black and white is worthy of my closet. I pair my high-tops with everything from skinnies to rompers. My favorite weekend sneaker brands are Vans and Nike.

Published on April 4, 2016 at 10:42 pm

Contact Taylyn: twashi01@syr.edu