Dressing comfortably for a day in the office does not only refer to the clothes on your back, but it also includes footwear! Although sneakers may be deemed as "too casual" for an in-office job, there are many ways to utilize sneakers to create the perfect corporate-casual look. Pairing a colorful statement sneaker with a maxi dress, or a chunky sneaker with a tailored pant, are two simple ways to wear sneakers in a way that are office-approved. Whether you are a collector of trendy sneakers, an enjoyer of dad stompers, or somebody who just loves platform sneakers, here are the some of the best sneakers to style for a day in the office.
This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you shop through them—no extra cost to you, just extra good taste.
Adding height in a way similar to heels, but being as comfortable as an everyday walking shoe, a platform sneaker is the perfect pick for a corporate-casual shoe. When styling the sneaker with slacks, the platform is what is primarily seen by others. So, choosing a sneaker that is a neutral tone is the perfect place to start when looking for a sneaker that is office appropriate. Playing around with textures such as leather and suede can add a funky flair to the look. Pair it with a work tote that shares the same material as your sneaker, and you have a stylish and cohesive office outfit!
Fashion trends do not need to be left outside the office door. Having the ability to dress up a casual sneaker is essential if you're considering wearing them at the office. Whether the stompers you have in mind are bold in color, or have trendy designs along the side, there are two ways to approach what articles of clothing you pair with them. The first way? Use your sneakers as a statement piece. Sticking with neutral garments such as understated dresses and trousers will keep you looking professional, but statement sneaks will still give you that fun flair. The second way: Lean into the colors and patterns of the sneakers by including statement jewelry and purses.
Contrast is key when styling dad sneakers in an office-approved way. They are chunky and bold, but are also versatile and great for transitioning from a busy day in the office to a jam-packed evening out on the town. Wearing a fitted top and bottom ensemble is a simple way to balance the bulkiness of the shoes. Another way to style dad sneakers for the office is by building your outfit color palette around the shoe. Putting further emphasis on the sneaker can make it look to casual for the office, so finding a way to work with the sneaker allows everything to blend together and in turn, dresses the sneakers up. Leaving you feeling comfortable, but in a cute corporate outfit!
