Sneakerhead or not, if there’s one pair of shoes that deserves a spot in your collection, it’s white sneakers. “They’re a hero capsule item because they are so versatile and easy to wear. It’s an item I recommend for all of my clients who want to build a capsule wardrobe,” says fashion expert Naina Singla.
Regardless of the mood or season, there are myriad ways to incorporate white sneakers into your OOTD. That even includes more formal occasions, with the go-to footwear rounding out suits and dresses. It’s a balancing act. “When incorporating boldness into an outfit, white sneakers can act as a neutral anchor so you don’t have to fret about what footwear to pair with the rest of your look,” says stylist Jessica Sockel. And there are different styles of white sneakers available—from chunky platforms to sleek slip-ons—so have fun experimenting with how each complements the rest of your ensemble or lends contrast. Ahead, Singla, Sockel, and fashion designer Christy Dawn share their best tips for how to wear the must-have shoe.
Keep scrolling for 30 of the best white sneakers outfits.
Preppy Aesthetic
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According to Dawn, pair non-denim shorts—like these Bermudas—with a tucked-in blouse or a fitted top. A blazer with also lend some structure and an extra layer of warmth to the preppy outfit.
Model Off-Duty
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Looking to land model off-duty style? “For an everyday casual ensemble to grab drinks or run errands, pair your white sneakers with wide-leg jeans and a t-shirt or colorful tank of your choosing,” says Sockel. For the cooler months, layer up with a sporty zip-up and puffer coat, as seen here.
Mini Moment
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A dress with sneakers is a match made in sartorial heaven. “This is such a great combination, and the sneakers are a great alternative when you don’t want to wear heels or when the event is more casual,” says Singla.
“If you’re wearing a miniskirt or short dress, try a more chunky white sneaker to balance out the look and create a sporty look,” recommends Singla.
Quiet Luxury
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“If your outfit is very minimal and basic, you can have more fun with your sneakers and go for a pair of white sneakers that have detailing embellishments, or pops of color on them,” says Singla. The Adidas Sambas are a classic choice, as are the sustainable brands Veja and Rothy’s.
Dopamine Dressing
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Although quiet luxury is still going strong, sometimes fashion minimalism just doesn’t cut it. This green neon dress is loud, unapologetic, and fun, with white sneakers serving a more functional purpose rather than competing for attention.
Country Club VIP
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“Dress up your sneakers by adding them to leather pants, pleated trousers, or a leather skirt,” says Singla. Technically, these are Prada slip-ons, but lace-up shoes would look just as chic—provided they’re still quite white. You don’t want to use your beaten-up sneakers for this look, especially if you’re actually headed to work.
Prints and Patterns
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Pattern mixing is always about experimenting: choosing items in your closet that have some color overlap but still look surprisingly cool together. Dawn suggests pairing florals with stripes or polka dots for a surprising and bold choice.
A Textured Approach
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Alternatively, play with fabrics for a more subtle style. “Try experimenting with mixing textures in your outfit, such as pairing your white sneakers with unexpected fabrics like leather, velvet, or suede, to add depth and dimension,” says Sockel.
Summer Suiting
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Elevate your workwear with white sneakers. “Pair them with tailored trousers and a button-down shirt or blazer, the perfect casual touch that makes your work day—and commute—a breeze,” says Sockel. This sleeveless pinstriped blazer is the perfect pick for warm months, and the color story continues on the sole of the shoes.
Something Blue
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Matching tops and bottoms for a monochromatic moment, like this crisp navy set, is elegant and effortless. The white sneakers add a dose of contrast and surprise without making the outfit look too casual.
Head-to-Toe Denim
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“I love the look of an all-denim look,” says Singla. And this jean jumpsuit makes a strong case for wearing head-to-toe denim. Alternatively, you opt for a more deconstructed approach. Singla’s advice? “Pair jeans and a chambray shirt with white sneakers.”
Denim Set
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While light wash denim leans light and casual, consider a darker wash for a moodier take. This dark, brown faded denim set with a brown knit checks all the boxes. But white sneakers add a bright contrast.
Back to Basics
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“Similar to denim, white sneakers are a staple that look great with most items you likely already own,” says Sockel.” Take these wardrobe basics, like a white tee, biker shorts, and leather jacket, for instance. “Add some fun accessories like a colorful handbag or bold sunglasses,” Dawn suggests.
Easy Breezy
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Linen pants are a godsend if you don’t love shorts or just want more coverage in summer. A neutral pant and sneaker like this are the perfect base to add a bright tee or polo. If that pop of color is too much, no problem. “Try an off-white sweater and linen pants or off-white jeans and white Converse sneakers,” says Singla.
Dressed Down
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“Instead of going monochrome from head to toe, try adding in a pair of white sneakers for more visual interest and contrast and to break up the monochrome look a bit,” says Singla. The white sneaker doesn’t have to match with anything else in your outfit, in other words. It can be the “pop” of visual interest you need when deployed correctly.
Match Point
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If your personal style leans preppy, yet classic, consider a white sneakers outfit like the one shown here. It also happens to double as the perfect golf game or tennis match spectator outfit. “A sleeveless knit dress looks really nice with classic white canvas sneakers: the whole look is casual and relaxed. Throw on a cardigan over your shoulders to complete the look,” says Singla.
One and Done
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“A lightweight, patterned jumpsuit looks great with white sneakers,” says Dawn. And a romper is the perfect substitution when it’s really hot, she adds. This white number is a crisp, workwear-inspired choice, with the turtleneck as a transitional weather must-have.
Delightfully Accessorized
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“I like to pair white sneakers with accessories that provide a striking contrast, such as a colorful statement bag, bold sunglasses, or a vibrant scarf that I often struggle to pair other items with,” says Sockel. This kitschy red heart bag might feel out of place elsewhere, but with a neutral-colored outfit and sneakers, it’s just the right pop of color.
Anything But Basic
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Jean shorts are a summer staple. “Combine with a graphic tee or a breezy button-down shirt,” says Dawn. Finish with a fresh pair of white kicks.
To transition your outfit from day to night, don’t forget to bring a summer jacket, whether it’s a linen blazer or a wool knit. “Throw on a lightweight cardigan for cooler evenings,” recommends Dawn.
Plaid 2.0
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Although plaid is often associated with grunge, prep school uniforms, and fall-ready ‘fits, the classic design has gotten a refreshing makeover as of late. Street style stars are incorporating the criss-cross pattern in new and unexpected ways. Take this plaid tulle maxiskirt, for instance, paired with white sneakers peaking out underneath. It’s a layered look that’s worth imitating.
Light Layers
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Speaking of layers, they don’t just serve an aesthetic purpose. “Consider tying a denim jacket around your waist for a casual layering option, or drape a lightweight cardigan over your shoulders for cooler evenings,” says Sockel. The muted tones of the jacket and handbag shown here are just enough to brighten the otherwise white ensemble—but you can also take it one step further. “Add a bright cardigan or a patterned kimono over a simple dress or jeans and a tee,” says Dawn.
Coordinated Accents
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According to Dawn, one way to add personality and fun to your white sneakers is to change your laces. “Swap out the standard white laces for colorful or patterned ones to add a playful touch.” This could also mean a fun tab, stickers, pins, or even (if you’re feeling really creative) drawing on your own design. Bonus points if it ties the whole look together, like this one here.
Who Needs Pants?
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If you’ve got cool sneakers, the best way to make the look feel cohesive is by matching them with an equally cool item up top—and forget the pants while you’re at it. This structured light gray jacket is simple and statement-worthy.
Elevated Casualwear
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“Whenever you feel like you have ‘nothing’ to wear, grab your favorite pair of white sneakers, a comfortable pair of jeans, and a fitted tee to eliminate decision fatigue and help you get ready faster,” says Sockel. To dress it up a tad, Dawn suggests an off-the-shoulder top or a classic white blouse. “Roll up the hem of the jeans to show off your sneakers,” she adds. Or just opt for a platform pair, as seen here.
Y2K-Inspired
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To balance out the flowiness of a long summer skirt, Dawn suggests, “Pair (it) with a tucked-in tank top or a cropped blouse.” Layer over pants for a trendy dress-over-pants look. But consider sticking to one color scheme for cohesiveness.
All for Florals
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Here’s another dress with sneakers outfit for when you can’t deal with heels. “A flowy maxidress with a more dramatic floral print can be paired with white sneakers for a relaxed yet stylish evening look,” says Dawn. To add some edge, consider layering with a leather jacket.
Mostly White
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Yes, you can wear white and cream together. In fact, doing so will add a bit more interest than your classic all-white look. A colorful headscarf won’t hurt either.
All About Contrasts
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The lovely play between textures here is noteworthy. A cream-colored silky slip skirt and knit contrast nicely against a black leather jacket. The stripes of the white Adidas sneakers echo the outfit’s simple, two-toned color scheme. “Pair your sneakers with a bold bomber jacket or a denim jacket adorned with patches or pins,” suggests Dawn. Swap out a fall-appropriate leather jacket with linen or silk in the spring and summer.
Matching Set
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To add a casual vibe to your matching set, opt for casual footwear. White sneakers complete this red outfit by grounding it in a neutral.
Athleisure
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White sneakers and athleisure go hand in hand. Here, the footwear serves as an extension of the white mesh maxi dress, thereby elongating it.
