HOW TO WEAR CONVERSE SNEAKERS

 BY TAYLAH BREWER

 

While the sneaker wars rage on between brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Yeezy, one label stands above the fray: Converse. The famous, American brand has been creating its iconic sneakers for over 100 years now and is still going strong. Providing customers with a classic style that never stops being cool, Converse has become immune to the tumultuous tides of fashion trends. Today, the brand offers an extensive range of distinctive shoes in varying styles and colors. From classic, black high tops and simple, white low tops, to bold, colored designs and everything in between, Converse offers a sneaker to suit every gent’s style. Pick your favorite and we’ll show you how to wear those old-school sneakers in a modern-day way.

 

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Black and White Converse

Classic, black and white, lace-up sneakers are easily identifiable as Converse. The style is not the only one that everyone knows, but it’s also one that every man should own. The relaxed and cool shoe is one that partners well with a number of outfits but looks best with your off-duty wardrobe. Providing a slight edge to your style, these sneakers look great with casual, rough-around-the-edges outfits. To style black and white Converse, start with your favorite pair of relaxed or distressed jeans. Then, tackle your top half without over-thinking it. Layer together loose styles, such as a T-shirt, chambray shirt, and bomber jacket, for an ideal, simple style.

 

 

 

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High Top All Black Converse

Black, high top Converse have a great edgy feel. Play up that rock and roll theme by dressing the part and wearing the right outfit. Black, cuffed skinny jeans make the ideal trouser partner to these dark sneakers. As for your top, keep it cool and classic with a plain white tee or go bold and a little bohemian with a patterned, short-sleeve shirt. The choice is yours, but be sure to finish off your look with a pair of dark shades. Some classic black wayfarers make for the ultimate rock star accessory.

 

 

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Red High Top Converse

Red, high top Converse make a bold alternative to classic black and white styles. The vibrant hue is eye-catching and sure to draw attention to your feet. Balance your outfit by keeping your clothes colored and light. Avoid monochromatic and black outfits, and opt for richer colors instead. Blue and navy pair well with red while green is its complementary color. Just remember to keep the tones subdued to avoid clashes of bright hues. As for neutrals, a soft brown color makes an ideal base tone for your outfit.

 

 

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White High Top Converse

White, high top Converse offer gents a great classic aesthetic. The sharp style partners best with casual denim or simple chinos for a contemporary weekend look. As high tops finish higher on the ankle, the style can look awkward with cuffed pants. Instead, leave your pants long and uncuffed for a relaxed and balanced look. Be sure to choose slim-cut trousers, though, as their lean shape will better suit the slender design of the sneakers. Complete the look with a simple, white shirt and a dark jacket. Also, remember that the cleaner your white Converse are, the sharper you will look. If you’re after a stylishly disheveled look, however, feel free to leave your sneakers a little muddied and scuffed.

 

 

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White Low Top Converse

White low top Converse are the perfect, casual, summer sneaker. Their bright color and simple style make for an easy and light look. To make the most of these stylish shoes, pair them with light colored pants, such as white or light-wash jeans and sand-hued chinos. You can get away with darker colored jeans, but be aware that the contrast will be quite striking, so be sure to balance the look. Keep your overall style smart casual by finishing your outfit with a crisp, Oxford shirt, preferably in white, and an open, single-breasted blazer.

 

 

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Black Low Top Converse

While white low top sneakers make a great summer look, black low top sneakers are perfect for a casual winter outfit. The dark shoes appear most stylish when paired with cold-weather styles in neutral tones and dark hues. Be sure to avoid dressing in total black, however, by adding some color variance to keep the look fresh and modern. Also, remember that these sneakers look best with casual styles, so avoid formal outfits and opt for relaxed dressing instead. Some simple skinny jeans or slim chinos will do the trick for pants. As for your top half, a parka or jumper will complete your look and keep you warm. Then, just add a beanie or scarf and you’re ready to hit the streets.

 

 

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Converse with Shorts

The key to making Converse sneakers work with shorts is to keep the look totally casual. Choose between denim and chino shorts in simple styles and block colors to get your look started. If you’re wearing high top sneakers, be sure that your shorts sit above your knee to keep the look balanced. Low-top sneakers, on the other hand, match well with traditional knee-length styles. Likewise, low top sneakers best suit simple and classic tops, whereas high top varieties, which are more alternative, look great with more creative and exciting styles. To finish off your casual converse and shorts style, just add a hat and sunglasses. The accessories will draw attention back up from your footwear and give your outfit a stylish summer vibe.

 

 

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FAQs

How do you wear Converse shoes?

1. Keep your look smart casual by pairing your Converse with stylish, weekend looks. 2. Balance the slim style of Converse sneakers with slim-cut or skinny pants. 3. Opt for white Converse in summer and black Converse in winter. 4. Wear your Converse with shorts for a cool and casual look. 5. Regularly clean your Converse to keep them looking sharp.

How to Clean Converse?

Are you supposed to wear socks with Converse?

HOW TO WEAR VANS WITH STYLE

 BY TAYLAH BREWER

 

Developing from the ultimate skating shoe into a mainstream sneaker must-have, Vans has grown exponentially since its 1966 founding. Today, after more than 50 years in the business, the label and its iconic shoes are instantly recognisable around the world. A staple for every gent’s wardrobe, Vans are versatile and can be worn in countless ways. So, no matter what your style is, there’s a killer Vans look out there for you.

 

RELATED: How to Clean White Vans

 

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Outfits to Wear with Vans

Vans can be worn with many outfits and suit a range of different styles. As they are sneakers, Vans are primarily a casual shoe. This means that they look best with casual outfits. Of course, there are ways to create a dapper look with your Vans. All it requires is selecting the right pair and styling them correctly. The type of Vans sneakers you choose will affect what clothes you should wear, so make your selection carefully and follow this guide to nail the perfect accompanying outfit.

 

Vans Old Skool

Vans Old Skools are a classic type of sneaker for the brand. The design is a chunky plimsoll style with a low top and thick sole. It is most commonly spotted in suede or leather styles and has a cool retro aesthetic. The Old Skool was also the first shoe style to feature the iconic Vans Sidestripe or “Jazz Stripe”. Today, black Old Skools featuring a white stripe is still one of the brand’s most recognisable styles.

 

 

What to Wear with Vans Old Skool

The Old Skool’s distinct design is ideal for creating a stylish look and can be worn for both casual and smart casual occasions. While Old Skools are available in a range of colours, a classic black and white style is always an excellent choice. For a cool and contemporary casual look, rock your Old Skools with a pair of chinos and a sweater. Keep the silhouette slim and the colour palette monochromatic to add the perfect polished finish to your look.

 

 

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Vans Era

The Vans Era is a classic low-top, lace-up skate shoe. The style features Vans durable double-stitched canvas upper and a padded tongue. It’s also the first Vans low-top lace-up skate shoe with a padded collar for extra comfort and support. Of course, you don’t have to be a skater to be able to appreciate the style and practicality of these great shoes. Today, they’re favourite of all types of gents and a great addition to any casual closet.

 

 

What to Wear with Vans Era

While some sneakers can often feel mismatched with a smart casual outfit, the Era pairs perfectly. Thanks to its classic and clean design, this sneaker style is ideal for partnering more sophisticated pieces. Try wearing a light coloured pair with some simple white trousers, a white shirt, and a blue blazer for a fresh look.

 

 

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Vans Sk8-Hi

The Sk8-Hi is undoubtedly the most iconic high-top sneaker from Vans. The design, which has previously been rocked by both skater and punk subcultures, is now a classic shoe style that provides comfort and fashion to all gents. Adapted from the Old Skool, the Sk8-Hi also features the Vans Sidestripe but is more padded than its predecessor.

 

 

What to Wear with Vans Sk8-Hi

The unique and padded style of the Sk8-Hi isn’t easy to dress up, so it’s best to stick to casual outfits when rocking these shoes. Aim for an outfit that is relaxed with an urban street vibe. Jogger pants with an elastic hem make a particularly great choice and will show off your shoes nicely. Consider wearing a pair with a long sleeve T-shirt and camo jacket for a seriously cool casual style.

 

 

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Vans Authentic

As its name suggests, the Authentic is a traditional Vans sneaker style. The design has been a staple look for the brand since its beginning and continues to be one of Van’s most popular styles. The Authentic’s timeless lace-up plimsoll style boasts a low top with a thick rubber sole and visible stitching. Traditionally made with a canvas upper, these shoes are simple and stylish.

 

 

 What to Wear with Vans Authentic

As the Authentic’s design is so simple, you can choose between keeping your look minimalistic with a neutral design or spicing things up with a bolder colour or pattern. If you pick a neutral style, keep the rest of your outfit clean and sleek. A pair of cropped chinos, a rollneck sweater, and a trench coat are all you need to complete your look with the perfect understated polish.

 

 

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Vans Slip-Ons

Thanks to their iconic shape and comfortable feel, Vans Slip-Ons are a sneaker that everyone loves. They’re also available in a broad range of styles, meaning that there’s a Vans Slip-On to suit every gent. From plain designs for minimalistic men to bold patterns for those with a wild side, Vans Slip-Ons cater to all tastes.

 

 

What to Wear with Vans Slip-Ons

Just as Vans Slip-Ons can suit a range of styles, they can also suit a variety of occasions. As well as being ideal for casual looks, these easy-to-wear sneakers can also work for slightly more formal settings. By choosing a classic pair and partnering them with some chinos, an oxford shirt, and a blazer, you’ll create a seriously dapper outfit without sacrificing any comfort.

 

 

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What to Wear with Vans High-Tops

Thanks to their chunky appearance, Vans high-top sneakers suit casual outfits best. While black high-tops can create an edgy appearance, white high-tops feel more polished. To make the most of this polished appearance, try pairing your white high-tops with some slim blue jeans, a white button-down and a parka. The result will be an outfit that is cool, contemporary, and stylish.

 

 

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What to Wear with Vans Low-Tops

Vans low-top sneakers are quite versatile and, depending on the style you pick, can suit either casual or smart casual ensembles. While they can be dressed up, low-tops are perfect for a relaxed weekend look. Consider rocking a classic black pair with some skinny jeans, a T-shirt, and a denim jacket for a stylish outfit that doesn’t require a second thought.

 

 

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What to Wear with Vans Mid-Tops

Vans mid-top sneakers are somewhat of a unique style. As such, they look best when partnered with casual outfits that are also a little different. A simple way to achieve the right look is to build upon one of your regular weekend outfits. For example, if you typically wear sneakers with jeans and a T-shirt, try adding accessories or a denim overshirt when rocking your mid-tops.

 

 

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What to Wear with Vans Sandals

Although Vans is best known for its sneakers, the brand also offers a range of other high-quality and stylish products. Sandals are included amongst this list and are an excellent choice for summer casual wear. While the label’s slides will inject an athleisure edge into any casual outfit, Vans’ other sandals are perfect for a great beach look with board shorts, a T-shirt, and a cap.

 

 

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What Socks to Wear with Vans

Vans can be worn either with or without visible socks. If you don’t want to include the appearance of socks in your look, you can either stick to ankle socks for high-top sneakers or choose invisible socks for low-top sneakers. Doing so will provide more comfort and reduce the odour caused by going completely sock-free. When rocking visible socks, make a choice between neutral colours for a classic look and bold colours or patterns for a fun and fashion-forward style.

 

 

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How to Wear Vans

• Select the type of Vans sneakers that best suits your style and the look you’re trying to achieve.
• Remember, Sk8-Hi sneakers will only suit casual outfits, but Authentic, Era, Old Skool, and slip-on styles can work for both casual and smart casual looks.
• Vans high-tops look best when worn with casual styles.
• Choose whether you want to dress Vans low-top sneakers up or down and plan your outfit accordingly.
• Pair Vans mid-top sneakers with a unique casual outfit.
• When wearing Vans, choose between wearing no socks, neutral socks or bold socks to suit your style.