Photo, iStock.
While traditional running shoes have their place—and can still look cute with jeans or a dress—think of "lifestyle" sneakers like a loafer or ballet flat—the shoe you can wear everywhere. (Yes, even to work. Just ask Ellen Degeneres.) And there's a sneaker for every personal style, in every colour and pattern imaginable.
You can't go wrong with a classic white leather or canvas sneaker; they truly look good with everything from a suit to jean shorts to a pretty patterned dress. Same goes for other neutrals like navy, beige, rose or metallic. Look for a rounded toe and an elongated, sleek shape—this silhouette is probably the easiest to wear, especially if you tuck in the laces for a clean look.
If you like taking on the trends, opt for a pair of '90s throwbacks with details like platform soles, high tops or multi-coloured palettes. Not sure what to pair with bright, bold sneakers? Jeans go with everything. Another good rule is to wear a shade in the same colour family—or lean into the '90s vibe with a white tee, some mom jeans and a fanny pack.
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Alicia Cox Thomson has worked for 20 years as an editor, writer and content producer for some of Canada's biggest lifestyle brands. Today, she writes about culture, business and the arts for Chatelaine, the Globe and Mail and more. She also speaks about books as a columnist for CBC Radio's The Next Chapter.
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