How To Style Vegan Sneakers

There's a reason sneakers never go out of style: aside from being the most comfortable footwear on Earth, they also offer that elusive, effortless air of cool that so many of us are looking for in our outfits. That nonchalant, "I just threw something on" feeling that some of the most stylish people in the world possess. You'll see sneakers pop up in so many of their outfits because these sportswear-inspired shoes lend themselves to a variety of style expressions, never losing their cool.

By Sascha Camilli 

Styling vegan sneakers can be simple and straightforward: a back-to-basics black and white sneaker, for example, can be an easy complement to a variety of looks. A sports-inspired black design like NAE's Jor recycled unisex sneaker in recycled PET or a clean white style like COG's Winton can be a no-brainer way to finish off a colourful outfit that needs a little balance. A white low-top sneaker matched with a floral maxi dress is a summer classic. Sneakers for evening? A sleek black design can look elegant and edgy when matched with a blazer and tailored trousers.

Vegan, ethically focused brands like AGAZI have made high-quality leather-free shoes their mission, and sneakers are big part of their offering. Sleek white is trending with this brand for a reason - freshness is key in their styling, and summer dressing is the perfect time to tap into that clean appeal. A pastel-hued romper with white high- or low-top sneakers is the quintessential "the weather's finally nice" outfit. Are white sneakers a pain to get clean? Yes. Is it worth it for that crisp summer look? Also yes. Want white with a twist? COG's Topsy range features graphic prints in a variety of colours, adding interest to jeans and a slouchy tee.

Craving more colour? Who can blame you - and countless sneaker brands are here to help. Minuit Sur Terre are masters of the subtle pop of colour, be it a bright red, a pop of blue, or full-on floral embroidery like their captivating Virevolte range. Team a colourful design with contrasting hues for a clever print clash, or use Minuit Sur Terre's patterned designs to liven up a one-tone look. For a splash of pastels, look to Ration.L and their tones of khaki, camel or soft blue. Break off a formal-looking suit outfit with a soft-toned sneaker in supple vegan leather. Adding an eye-catching sock in an accompanying colour can also provide interest - gone are the days when we aimed for our socks to be invisible! Today it's all about using them to make a statement.

Renowned stylist Allison Bornstein has coined the The Wrong Shoe theory, which is all about contrasts: wear a strict, austere look with a softer, more casual shoe, or flats with a gala dress. With sneakers, teaming them up with formal tailoring lends edge and freshness. 

Editorial stylist Kristine Kilty, who champions vegan fashion in her work whenever she can, has some tips on styling your sneakers: "A fun and affordable way to style sneakers is by switching up the laces. Try metallics, bold colours, or geometric patterns. Vintage stores, markets, and charity shops are great places to snap up unique laces at a bargain price. You can even experiment with two differently coloured laces per shoe for a playful, mismatched look." Taking the "wrong shoe" territory even further, Kristine's tip will make sneakers stand out. If you're looking beyond the casual and finding ways to glam up your sneakers, Kristine has some unconventional advice: "I also love adding jewellery to my trainers. About eight years ago, Gucci showcased some beautifully decorative trainers, and I’ve been playing with that concept ever since. I clip opulent chandelier earrings onto the top of the laces, weave bracelets through the upper eyelets, and even thread rings through the lace fastening, for a super glamorous, unexpected twist".

By Sascha Camilli

About Sascha

Sascha Camilli is a vegan writer, speaker and activist. Her book Vegan Style is out now on Murdoch Books. For more about Sascha, you can read our interview with her or sign up to her newsletter Kind of Wild. 

Cover image by Ration.L

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