Casual Friday: Sneakers for Work

Sneakers, tennis shoes, or gym shoes (for my Chicago people) no matter what you call them, I never thought I would see the day when I sneakers would be appropriate for work. See how to style your favorite pair for the conference room.

Office spaces nowadays aren’t all suits and button downs. The industry has evolved and dress codes are becoming more flexible. Leaving room for creativity and even more room for error. Technically, I don’t have a dress code for the office. There aren’t any rules, guidelines or lists to follow that keep our wardrobes work appropriate.

In this case, it seems like sneakers have been around for a while especially for the men. For women, it’s a new trend that’s taking over offices and for some it’s a hit or miss. In this case, this look is a hit!

On some Fridays, it always seems like I’m running from work, to the store, then to Happy Hour. When I have a busy day like this, it’s important that I’m wearing a pair of shoes that’s comfortable and can get me from point A to B. I love a classic pair of white sneakers to do the job.

If your office allows, I think sneakers are a go under two conditions.

The first step in making sneakers work appropriate is they should be clean. Whether or not they’re white doesn’t matter but the sneakers must be clean. Anything dirty in general doesn’t bode well for the office so the same goes for your favorite footwear. This particular pair is a find from H&M for about $25. I wipe them down between wears to make sure they stay looking fresh.

2. Second rule of thumb is to wear them with something on the more “formal” side. A dress, midi skirt, blazer or even a colorful suit will help give you that office edge. In this case, I’m sporting a fun a-line dress rented from Rent the Runway by Kate Spade. It’s comfortable, a great print, and pockets are always a win! Wearing something a bit “nicer” than jeans with my sneakers makes it appropriate for the work place.