The most versatile sneakers
If you’re anywhere near my vintage you might be surprised at the significance sneakers have in the fashion world now. Once upon a time they were simply runners, literally shoes we would wear for sport or to run in. They were generally made of canvas or leather. As technology improved the humble runner was refashioned differently to suit different sports.
Next some companies began making shoes that looked like runners (but were nowhere near as comfortable) just for streetwear. Next we saw two simultaneous trends: sneaker collectors became a thing as the prices of them rose tremendously and also the rise of the ubiquitous white runners, worn frequently by women with straightened hair, with print dresses and denim jackets.
Although I could see the ease of teaming white runners with everyday clothes, white runners never suited me as they shone more brightly than the rest of my outfit and I didn’t want my feet to be the focus. I tried cream coloured and blush coloured runners and these were slightly better, but I never felt right in light shoes (a throwback to the white stiletto trend of the eighties perhaps? Eek!).
Buying some black runners for gym changed everything. I could wear these with regular clothes and they kind of just disappeared rather than shone. They were really useful when I travelled to Europe just with carry on luggage. I didn’t love their silhouette but on the other hand, they were so comfortable, innocuous and didn’t overwhelm the rest of my outfit
Sneakers have become such a mainstay of our wardrobes now that they can be worn with everything, and I do mean everything. We have seen them worn with suits, on the red carpet and even with wedding dresses on occasion. It is now completely possible just to pack sneakers to travel with, as I did recently for a trip to New Zealand. The only exception would be if you need boots for waterproofing or sandals due to heat. Having said this, I also wouldn’t wear them to a job interview, regardless of the industry.
But nothing stays completely simple in the fashion world because fashion doesn’t work that way. Even as sneakers have been completely acceptable for (almost) every occasion, the profile has changed. This will continue to be the case and as I don’t condone buying a new pair every time this occurs, understanding what profile suits you best is useful.
We’ve been seeing a very slim, flat to the ground sneaker profile emerging recently, being almost reminiscent of ballet flats. These will suit people with very fine ankles and calves but don’t offer a lot of support.
There are also still plenty of padded, chunky and elevated sneakers being worn, particularly with wider legged jeans, and this look is totally on trend. These will have the effect of slimming down wider calves and ankles because width is relative. I’ve always loved chunky boots for this reason.
Then there is the regular profile that is not slim-fitting and flat to the ground nor chunky and elevated either. In my opinion this regular profile will not hit fashion heights but will be a versatile neutral pair you can wear with most things. If you can own just one pair, these are the ones that will give you most bang for your buck.
Bonus points if you find some in your colour palette! Colour Analysis anyone?
If you get sneakers (or any other shoes) that are similar to your hair colour they will always look right because they go with YOU!
Three sneaker profiles: black chunky, grey green medium and pink slim-fitting
* I created this image using AI to avoid infringing copyright