Sporty chic: How to look sexy in sneakers?
updated the 7 October 2015 à 00:02
Even the most die-hard fashionistas have ditched their 12-inch heels for sneakers. Discover our favourite streetstyle looks that will make you want to dig your age-old sneakers out of the closet again…
Sneaker mania is not new.
For several decades, sneakers have quietly reigned on the world of footwear – in 1917, the Converse All Star, 1964, the Adidas cult Stan Smith and 1987, the very popular Air Max by Nike.
They have been worn by Kurt Cobain, Run-DMC dedicated them a song title – as did Vanessa Hudgens – and are embedded in in the apartment of Marie Antoinette. It is with sneakered feet that designers the likes of Raf Simons and Marc Jacobs have come to take their runway bows.
Because sneakers have earned their stripes in the fashion world.
Be it through sports, rock or hip-hop culture, its streetwear image has never ceased to inspire stylists and designers, most recently with the “sporty chic” trend, which returns unfailingly ever so often.
The little shoe is clearly not ashamed of its fashion resume, and since it regularly makes its appearance in the scene, we can observe a veritable avalanche of sneakers, be it on the catwalks for several seasons (as in Dior and Chanel Haute Couture), in shops, on the street, or on our friends.
Sneakers have seriously competed for attention during recent runway shows, even on the feet of fashion editors. As fashionable as they are comfortable, why should we deprive ourselves of the joy of sneakers?
Be it in jeans, jogging gear or a skirt, the sneaker is not afraid to rub shoulders with the most chic pieces – in fact, quite the contrary! Because it is this very juxtaposition that stirs interest.
To look elegant, we can match sneakers with, for example, a feminine dress, some glamorous jewellery, or a girly handbag.
Fear a fashion faux pas? Opt for clean-cut clothes, both in terms of the cut and patterns, and go on for more “simple” models, such as a Stan Smith or a pair of slip-ons.
And if you are crazy for the explosive colours of the Air Max, choose them to perk up a more monochromatic look.
Among those who have mastered the androgynous look, canvas sneakers (like those found in brand Superga) overshadow derbies and other flat boots. Try them out with a pair of tailored trousers.
And of course, take good care of them! Stained sneakers too lose their fashionable “aura”… with the exception of Converse’s legendary Chuck Taylors, of course.
To be beautiful in sneakers, let yourself be inspired by some of our favourite street looks…
Cécile Baraize
