Cool sneakers are a big deal: Here’s how to wear them well.

Cool sneakers are the new stiletto, and this writer couldn’t be happier. While I love me a high heel, I spend so much time focused on not breaking my ankle I don’t remember most of my day (I wish I was joking). But this was the price I paid, because every time I’d attempt to wear sneakers with my outfit, I looked like I was about to shoot a rap video.

Fashion powerhouses like Givenchy, Chanel and Christian Dior have not only embraced the cool sneakers trend in their collections, they’ve kicked things up a notch – giving us the opportunity to enjoy the sneaker culture we’ve transitioned into while still looking chic.

Here are 11 effortless ways to rock the cool sneakers trend:

1. Don’t just wear any sneaker
You should have non-gym sneakers that are clean and flattering, and have a certain je ne sais quoi about them – you want people to know you’re wearing them as a fashion statement.

2. All or nothing
Depending on your personality, you’ll either want to stock up on barely-there ankle socks or go all in with eye-catching socks that complement your ensemble.

3. Be particular with the rest of your outfit
Make sure the rest of your outfit is polished with clean lines (in other words, no frumpy pants that sag over your cool sneakers). The whole point is to offer a stylish contrast between masculine and feminine.

4. Start with a monochromatic look
If you’re new to the world of cool sneakers, make a splash by wearing a monochromatic look and use your sneakers as the pop of color your outfit is waiting for. Keep the color palette simple for a complicated shoe.

5. Mix and match
Experiment! Mix different outfits with different cool sneakers without fear you’re “doing it wrong.” Go with your gut and wear what you love – confidence will always make or break an outfit.

6. Go super feminine
Wear form-fitting, uber-girly pieces (like leggings, skinny jeans, or maxi skirts), which will turn your sneakers into a cute accessory instead of an eyesore.

7. Consider the fabric
For example, if you’re wearing a flowy dress made out of a light fabric, go for cool sneakers made of canvas. If you’re wearing an edgy, tailored outfit, opt for patent leather sneaks.

8. Don’t mess with timeless pieces
When you’re wearing timeless pieces (such as a pencil skirt), keep your sneakers understated. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

9. Keep an eye on proportions
Wearing high-top sneakers with a knee-length skirt will make you look shorter – opt for low-tops that will elongate your legs.

10. Add an equally cool jacket
To me, nothing beats a faux leather jacket to edge things up a bit.

11. Accessorize accordingly
Adding sophisticated accessories will nix any doubt that you’re on your way to the gym. Opt for things like a super-tailored blazer, lux fabrics like cashmere, straight leg jeans or a structured bag (like a bucket bag or clutch).

Have you embraced the cool sneakers trend?

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Now and Then: The History of the Sneaker

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Images: dreams and pancakes, Laura4Smith

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