A Man's Guide To Wearing White Sneakers

White sneakers are a must have for any wardrobe. They really don’t ask too much of you, and support so many different clothes.

Here we will explore 5 great looks - from casual to dressy - that you can pair-up with your white sneakers.

A bonus with white sneakers is that you don’t really need to worry about what colors to wear with them. They support the entire color wheel and pretty much all fabrics. 

1. Shorts and White Sneakers 

You can never go wrong with this classic pairing. Shorts and sneakers go together perfectly, like peanut butter and jelly, ham and cheese, lox and bagels. But, you can’t just throw on any old pair of shorts. No way.

You need to be as attentive to your shorts selection as you are to the rest of your look. That means avoid cut-offs, short-shorts, shorts with rips or stains, even gym shorts (unless you’re actually exercising or playing squash).

Know what types of shorts are suitable for your body type. A safe bet are usually shorts made from twill. French terry is also a great fabric option that is relaxed but stylish. Cargo and Bermuda shorts are always a safe bet, and cuffed shorts seem to be the look many people are sporting this summer. Three-quarter pants could also work.

In general, shorts should sit above at about 2 to 4 inches above the knee. Pair them with a t-shirt, polo top or short sleeve collared shirt and you’re good to go. You can even layer a t-shirt with a lightweight printed, collared shirt for a classic preppy look.

Our unadorned Reid Sneakers in full-grain leather have the right aesthetic to pair with shorts.

2. Athleisure and White Sneakers

Many of us have gotten used to wearing loungewear or athleisure around the house. So much so that we’ve taken to wearing them out in the world. And, why not? It’s comfortable, looks good and gets us where we’re going without a fuss.

But, when you’re showing up in the world, you might want to take some care to look like you actually care. That means taking time to put together a look that doesn’t look like you just threw on some sweats you grabbed off of the floor. Think of it as putting together a sophisticated casual look.

Tapered or slim-fit joggers that fit comfortably around your lower leg are a good place to start. You really don’t want the pants to be too baggy, or too tight. Top it off with a slim-fitting sweatshirt, a fleece, a nice cotton t-shirt or one made from a new high-tech synthetic.

Layer the look with a cool cardigan, a crew-neck sweater, a relaxed sportcoat, a lightweight jacket or a heavier coat like a vintage bomber jacket.

The retro aesthetic of all leather Morgen Trainers look particularly cool with this type of outfit.

3. Turtlenecks and White Sneakers

This is a look that can be easily coordinated and is perfect for the fall. Choose a full turtleneck, or mock turtleneck, in a solid color like cream, blue, burgundy, red or purple to pair with nice trousers or chinos.

Striped or checked wool trousers look incredible with turtlenecks. Casual yet put together, coupled with a crisp pair of white sneakers in full-grain leather and suede and you have a quintessential autumnal outfit.

This look can also be switched-up for the warmer months by switching-out the turtleneck for a lightweight crew-neck, a polo top, nice t-shirt or button down shirt with rolled sleeves. Or mix and match. Neutral to dark khakis always look great, so long as they are fitted. You can also cuff the khakis so they sit above your ankles. With or without socks this always a fun look.

Sleek Rivera Sneakers sport an unexpected aesthetic that will kick this look up a few notches.

4. Blazers and White Sneakers

Blazers are a staple item for any wardrobe. This jacket style is incredibly versatile and can be worn for formal occasions, or for casual outings with just as much ease. Most common is the navy blue blazer, but you can choose from a variety of colors and cuts.

When put together with chinos, or jeans (even white pants) and white sneakers, the blazer takes on a decidedly relaxed vibe.

The style of shirt depends on the overall look you’re going for. Choose a button-down oxford for a dressier touch, a cool patterned t-shirt for something a bit more relaxed, or a polo top for a happy medium. Layer it up with a v-neck sweater or a vest and you can create a visually really interesting ensemble.

Any of these outfits will look incredible with a pair of Garcia Sneakers in full-grain leather.

5. Suits and White Sneakers

Ooohhh - suits with white sneakers. This look has been gaining traction over the last few years. And, done correctly, it might become one of your favorites. Start out with a solid, dark colored suit, like deep blue or gray. Try to stay away from stripes, panels or novelty prints unless you know you can pull it off. Be sure your suit is a modern cut, well-fitted and made from a lightweight, flexible fabric.

The great thing about suits nowadays is that you have the freedom to wear a traditional button down oxford shirt, a form fitting t-shirt, even a polo top and still look good so long as the execution is impeccable.

Suits will look particularly fetching with the super clean Geller Trainers in full-grain leather.

Sneaker Tips:

Tip #1: Always make sure your white sneakers are...white. That means keeping microscopic dust and dirt particles from settling on them by storing your white sneakers in cloth shoe bags and a shoe box if possible.

Tip #2: Use a water-based sneaker cleaner to keep your kicks fresh. Cleaning and polishing them on a regular basis is essential. And, making sure your laces are also clean. You can quickly remove scuffs by gently brushing them away with a soft-bristle toothbrush dipped in a solution of baking soda and toothpaste diluted in lukewarm water.

Tip #3: You should treat your leather sneakers to a deep cleaning every couple of weeks to keep them looking crisp.

Tip #4: Mix-up your sneaker lacing game with these cool techniques.

Tip #5: Speaking of laces, be sure to wash them in a solution of hot water and a few drops of laundry detergent. You can add a couple of drops of bleach to the solution if the laces are badly stained. Agitate the water with the handle of your toothbrush, let them soak for about 15 minutes, rinse and let the laces air dry.

Tip #6: High-tops or low? Well, that depends entirely on you and what else you’re wearing. You should be able to wear high-tops with most things, including shorts, but you absolutely need to make sure your pants don’t bunch up over the collar of the sneakers. If they do, it could signal that you really don’t care too much about your overall appearance and will detract from both the sneakers and the rest of your outfit.

Tip #7: Socks or no socks? That depends on what you’re wearing them with, and how comfortable you are with showing off your ankles. Also, white socks vs. colored or patterned socks is a whole deal unto itself. Showing socks with certain looks can make a deliberate statement, be sure you know what you want that to be. If in doubt, go with ankle or no-show socks.

Conclusion

Now you have the information you need to style your white sneakers with a variety of outfits. Use these suggestions as just that - suggestions. Be creative and let your personal style shine through. And, let us know what looks you put together by leaving a comment below.

Be sure to check out our entire line of sneakers, available in several styles and materials. You’re sure to find at least one that will spark your creativity.