As a commuter and fashion editor, my must-haves in a pair of work sneakers are style and comfort. The perfect sneakers must turn heads even when I’m strutting down the busiest of streets. They must have the light bounce of what I imagine feels like walking on a cloud. And they must pair flawlessly with everything from stacked trousers to tailored dresses to flowy skirts. How do I find these near-mythical sneakers? Well, lucky you—I implemented a very scientific approach. I conducting field research, observed NYC’s foot traffic, browsed endlessly online, and consulted fellow fashion editors to find the best work sneakers.
I asked our very chic, stylish editors to send me their favorite work sneakers, and they returned with five fabulous styles that met my criteria—a sporty-chic taekwondo-inspired Adidas trainers, edgy mesh Mary Janes, sleek suede Miu Miu sneakers, and more. I’ve also included my top three office-appropriate styles.
Below, read my office-sneaker report in its entirety—from our editors’ favorite work sneakers to 17 other chic options on the market that will upgrade your sneaker game.
My Picks
Laceless with a sleek, low-profile silhouette, these martial arts–inspired trainers are my absolute dream. The cream base and deep blue complement each other for a soft, rich look. They are practical with a chic, sporty design.
Veronica Beard
Riviera Sneaker
I can easily see myself wearing these lightweight leather sneakers on the subway heading to work. I’d style them with a cute pair of dark-wash jeans and a classic white tee and let these gorgeous suede trainers do all the talking.
PUMA
Speedcat Premium Sneaker
These Puma Speedcats are special. Their narrow toe and suede finish create a soft, inviting silhouette. They’re beige all over with a strike of silver on the side, and if I were a pair of sneakers, I’d be these.
Editors’ Picks
ADIDAS
Taekwondo Mei Leather Sneakers
“I’m so fortunate to work in a creative industry, which gives me the ability to wear fashion-forward pieces year-round. Right now, I have my sights set on this fresh sneaker style from Adidas. I’d wear them with everything from trousers to dresses to skirts.”
ZARA
Mesh Mary Jane Sneakers
“I don’t typically wear traditional sneakers aside from my Salomons at the gym, but I do love Mary Jane sneakers, and the ballet-sneaker trend has won me over. The Prada Sport and Miu Miu versions are my dream, but Zara has an affordable option. I like that they’re mesh since I’ve been looking for a pair that’s breathable to wear in the NYC heat this summer. They feel more elevated than regular sneakers but just as comfortable.”
Nikki Chwatt, Associate Fashion Editor
Miu Miu
Plume Suede Sneakers
“I’m not really a sneaker person, but if I were to wear a pair to the office, it would be the Plume style by Miu Miu. I love the sleek, retro-inspired silhouette and minimalist design, which add to their cool factor. While they come in several different colors, I prefer the navy because it looks the richest, especially when paired with black wide-leg trousers.”
Allyson Payer, Senior Editor
Dries Van Noten
Suede Sneakers
“These are my go-to trendy-but-not sneakers. They’re retro but still elegant, and they can dress an outfit up or down depending on what you’re wearing. I’ve admittedly purchased them in several colors—it’s a problem. I wouldn’t hesitate to wear them to the office and think they’d look especially cool with a relaxed blazer and trousers.”
Anna LaPlaca, Senior Editor
(Image credit: @anna_laplaca)
Aldo
Carefree Jogger Sneaker
“Trust me—these sneakers look and feel so expensive in person. The slim profile and suede finish look especially forward, making them an elevated pick for the office that I’d style with jeans and trousers.”
More Stylish Sneakers
Shop the Sneakers
adidas X Liberty London
Samba OG Shoes
The collab I never want to end.
rag & bone
Retro Runner Mesh Sneaker
The mesh detailing offers breathable comfort so you can wear these retro-chic sneakers all day long.
NIKE
LD-1000 Leather and Brushed Suede-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers
These forest-green sneakers are clean and chic.
Vince
Oasis Runner Mesh Sneakers
Vince has entered the conversation. These runners will take you from work to the weekend in style.
AUTRY
Windspin Metallic Leather Sneakers
A metallic lover’s fantasy.
A simple yet flattering profile.
CHLOÉ
Kick Suede, Mesh and Leather Sneakers
Suede + mesh + leather = dream shoes
Free People
Aces Tennis Shoe
A retro-chic color palette that feels nostalgic in all the right ways.
A little twist on the Sambas.
ISABEL MARANT
Bryce Suede-Trimmed Perforated Leather Sneakers
A solid and simple choice made with quality leather.
ZARA
Padded Running Shoes
Zara has some pretty good sneakers. Bright blue and suede? Yes, please.
LOEWE
Flow Runner 2.0 Leather-Trimmed Shell and Suede Sneakers
This color combo is spectacular and so chic.
AllSaints
Kenny Woven Runner Sneaker
These are perfect for a hot summer day. Slip them on and you’re out the door.
Jeffrey Campbell
Aleta Sneaker
The perfect all-black trainers. Neat and narrow.
Vince
Mojave Trainer Sneaker
This play with texture in such a beautiful style. Not to mention, the suede finish is divine.
Converse
All Star ’70s High Top Sneakers
You can never go wrong with a pair of Converse. It’s the leather jacket of sneakers—a classic.
These are currently in my closet. They’re great work-to-gym sneakers to own.
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