Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?: As a recruiter in the heyday of big tech, I saw many candidates with various dressing styles.
Many industries have adopted smart casual. Smart casual is a style that has been around for more than a century. It was first used in 1924.
It gained popularity with the rise in Silicon Valley (hello black jeans and turtlenecks) and the Zoom Era. Since then, this has become a standard way to dress at work, reflecting our changing attitudes.
Keep the collared shirt, but get rid of the suit. Dark chinos or jeans are a better alternative. Change the loafers to a pair of suede Chelsea boots or brogues.
The sleek belt that you wore along with your suit? Change it for a more rugged belt, like a distressed brown. If the belt has topstitching, choose a muted thread rather than a white blaze.
Casual is casual. No one in the workplace wants to appear unkempt, but sweatpants and hoodies are common on videoconferences. A Zoom grid of sweatshirts says, “We work remotely, and we don’t care about our appearance.”
Casual has moved more towards sportswear and loungewear as business casual and smart-casual have become the norm.
Smart casual and business casual are both aimed at making a certain impression. Although it may seem low-key, the impression you make is important. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
7 types of sneakers can you wear as a smart casual
- Leather Sneakers
- Slip-On Sneakers
- Canvas Sneakers
- Low-Top Sneakers
- Suede Sneakers
- Retro-Inspired Sneakers
- High-Quality Knit Sneakers
1. Leather Sneakers
Has become a standard in many workplaces. Simply put, business casual is combining business attire with casual elements.
This can include sneakers. This does not mean that all sneakers fall into this category. It would help if you stuck to minimalistic, clean sneakers.
The less detail, the better. There are exceptions to this rule, depending on what kind of field you work in.
In the creative industry, you can use bolder colors and patterns, like in fashion or advertising. If you want to be safe, choose simple dress sneakers. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
2. Slip-On Sneakers
The OluKai slip-ons Pehuea will get you from the office to the airport in comfort and style. The thick rubber outsole of these sneakers is balanced by the lightweight mesh upper.
The supportive midsole of these stylish kicks offers just the right arch support, ensuring your feet are cushioned at all the right spots.
The heel of these slip-ons has a drop-in seam, which allows the shoe backing to be folded down to put them on easily. It then pops back up again to support your foot.
These sneakers are great for walking on slick surfaces. Their dense rubber soles provide plenty of grip.
The mesh upper was very breathable but stiff initially. We had to use both hands to get into the shoes. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
Read Also: Can you wear pajamas in college?
3. Canvas Sneakers
They were marketed as an everyday, casual alternative to high-tops. Canvas sneakers are available in almost every menswear shop. Canvas sneakers are available in various styles and colors, with the “All-Star” being the most popular.
As sneakers are derived from sports shoes, they aim to be functional and not adhere to “unwritten” rules. They are great for light physical activity and can be worn to the gym or even when playing sports.
If you take your children to the park or walk your dog, you will spend some time running (or walking) after them.
You should get out your canvas sneakers. The only thing is that younger men may be able to wear them more often. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
4. Low-Top Sneakers
Business casual is now commonplace at many workplaces. Simply put, business casual is combining business attire with casual elements. This can include sneakers.
This does not mean that all sneakers fall into this category. It would help if you stuck to minimalistic, clean sneakers. The less detail, the better.
There are exceptions to this rule, depending on what kind of field you work in. In the creative industry, you can use bolder colors and patterns, like in fashion or advertising. If you want to be safe, choose simple dress sneakers.
The white sneakers can be combined with almost any outfit. Whitework sneakers are more formal than other sneakers. It’s best to choose high-quality leather or suede, as they have a more polished appearance than canvas.
Avoid any bold patterns. Keep them as minimalistic as possible, and ensure they are free of dirt or stains. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
Read Also: Can you wear pajama pants in public?
5. Suede Sneakers
Suede has a much more fuzzier texture than leather’s smooth surface. The soft surface of suede leather is due to the animal skin. The material is more suitable for indoor activities.
Suede sneakers are comfortable and relaxed. These are perfect for those who work in a relaxed environment. To maintain a professional look, we recommend that you use neutral colors.
Although it may seem unusual, brogued sneakers are completely office-appropriate. Brogues are a great option for men who like shoes with more personality.
This delicate pattern can be found on oxfords, Derby shoes, and dress sneakers. It is best to stick with the traditional brown and black colors. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
6. Retro-Inspired Sneakers
There are many types of sneakers, from retro-inspired Adidas sneakers to classic Nikes that have been around for decades. We decided to test the best kicks and find out what they are.
Check out our top choices, including the best retro sneakers. These shoes have all been reviewed and rated. You can trust us when we tell you that a shoe is great.
The ASICS Gel1130 is the best retro shoe we have tested. This shoe retained the iconic look of the OG and provided excellent traction and comfort. It was these two features that made the shoe so comfortable to wear.
The ASICS Gel-1130 was never significantly altered before being released to the public. The ASICS Gel 1130 is the same as it was years ago. This shoe is retro to the core. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
7. High-Quality Knit Sneakers
Not so long ago, smart-casual attire required ‘proper shoes.’ If you didn’t wear loafers, Derbies, or desert boots, smart casual was not for you.
With the casualization of dress codes and men placing equal importance on style as comfort, smart casual sneakers became a separate category.
Common Projects, for example, seized this opportunity by producing pared-back, high-quality designs that looked equally at home with shorts and t-shirts as they did with an unstructured suit.
These sneakers were made with luxurious leather and traditional shoe-making methods, bringing them closer to Goodyear-welted shoes. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
Conclusion:
Yes, you can wear sneakers as part of a smart casual outfit. The key is to choose clean, stylish sneakers that complement your attire.
Pair them with tailored pants or a smart dress to strike the right balance between comfort and sophistication.
Overall, sneakers can add a modern touch to your look while maintaining a polished appearance. [Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?]
Can I wear sneakers as smart casual?: FAQ
1. Can I wear running or athletic sneakers for smart casual?
Ans: Running or athletic sneakers do not fit into smart casual clothing. Keep your sneakers minimal and stylish.
2. What should I pair with sneakers for a smart casual outfit?
Ans: Combine your sneakers with dark jeans, chinos or tailored pants. Finish the look with a casual blazer, polo shirt or button-up shirt for a relaxed yet polished appearance.
3. What colors of sneakers are best for smart casual?
Ans: For smart casual wear, neutral colors like white, black, or gray are the best. These colors are versatile and go with many outfits. Combine your sneakers with dark jeans, tailored pants or chinos. Finish the look with a casual blazer, polo shirt or button-up shirt for a relaxed yet polished appearance.