How to Wear High-Top Shoes
High top sneakers, especially those by converse, are one of the most fashionable kinds of shoes out there. Since so many companies make them chances are that you will find them in the exact color or pattern that you are looking for to go with any outfit you might want to wear. The other great thing about this type of shoe is that it can be both dressed up and down so you’ll get lots of mileage out of it. If you’re confused about how to wear this kind of shoe then read on to find some great tips.
To Tie or Not to Tie? The Basics of the High Top Shoe
High top shoes come in a variety of colors, styles and fits. The high top shoe can either reach above the ankle which it typically does or go all the way to mid calf which is unusual not unheard of. Next either laces or Velcro secure the shoe shut and in some cases a combination of both will get the job done. How you fasten the shoe is really a matter of personal choice and some will choose to lace the shoes up to the top while others will secure them half way and pull the tongue of the shoe out more. Not fastening the shoe all the way to the top will allow more room if you decide you want to tuck a pair of jeans or leggings into the shoe.
Casual with Jeans
For both men and women high top sneakers are most commonly worn with jeans. For women in particular a tight fitting skinny jean is the absolute perfect way to both show off and compliment your high top sneakers. This type of jean will not bunch as much around the ankle and will create a slim, flattering leg profile. The casual look is one of the easiest to pull together and takes very little time to complete.
For women a dark wash skinny jean or pair of jeggings is preferable for this look. After that all you need it either an oversize crop top or a different type of oversize shirt. Since the look will be pretty tame you should feel free to load on accessories like bracelets or layered necklaces. If you’re not a fan or oversized tops then try a more fitted solid colored shirt. Still amp up the jewelry but throw on a vest to give your outfit a more complete look.
Men can really rock the casual look when they wear any kind of high top sneaker and it’s even simpler for men as they don’t have to worry about makeup or jewelry. Not many men feel comfortable going for a full skinny jean so a boot cut is a comparable option that looks just as good but won’t make men feel too vulnerable or exposed. Next a simple zip up hoodie and a graphic tee complete the look. The best part is that it is very likely that guys will already have most of these items in their closet and ready to go.
Dressed Up?
It’s okay if you’re a little alarmed by the idea of dressing up a pair of sneakers that was once reserved for basketball players and hipsters. While you shouldn’t expect to attend any black tie galas in these shoes it is possible to dress them up a tiny bit. One word: Blazer.
Blazers have broken free from the traditional stuffy office environment and can now be found on fashion forward men and women everywhere. They are a simple way to dress up any outfit and quite frankly, they look great with a pair of high-tops. The contrast between the care free sneakers and the slightly more structured blazer creates an interesting look that flatters both men and women.
Women can wear the blazer over a solid tee shirt or a graphic tee and a pair of leggings, jeggings or skinny jeans as with the casual look. Women should search for a blazer that is more tailored and flattering so that the look is pulled together and not sloppy. Here you should pay more attention to how your hair and makeup is done as a little more effort in this area will propel the look even further into dressier territory.
Men will have an easy time with this slightly dressed up look as well. Boot cut jeans are still a great option but tighter jeans will be complimented by the blazer which is essential for this look. Instead of the graphic tee, opt for a solid colored v-neck to go under the blazer.
