I love running shoes, sneakers, kicks, trainers, runners.
Partially, I love sneakers because they are comfortable, but the real reason is that they come in so many styles. Sneakers can change the feel of an outfit, make a dress look more casual, or elevate jeans and a t-shirt.
I’ve been collecting sneakers for a long time, though my interest was piqued when platform shoes re-entered the scene a few years ago. In the past, I was fickle with my shoes and would get rid of them when they were no longer in my regular rotation. Now, I keep them all because they will inevitably become fashionable again. I need to do a better job of caring for them to last. As you can see, they don’t have the gleaming white soles that teenagers strive to achieve.
Starting from the top of the stairs, here is a rundown of my collection, including why I love them and how I wear them. I’m also adding my wish list at the bottom for sneakers I have been eyeing.
Black and White Vans – I stole these from my daughter when she decided they weren’t cool. I wear them when I’m grubbing in old jeans and a T-shirt. They’re almost vintage and will never go out of style.
Blue and White Adidas Gazelle – I purchased these at Nordstrom Rack in the US for almost nothing. They are incredibly comfortable, and I wear them with jeans. Another pair of sneakers that are timeless.
Tan Air Force One – I got these in the UK on a family trip. We all got a different pair, and they remain one of my favourites. I love the platform because it gives me height. I love the neutral colour because they blend into my legs, which helps me look a bit taller.
Anniversary Edition Air Force One – who can pass up cheetah and pink? I got these on a family trip to NYC. I fell in love with them instantly. I like to wear these with my tan-coloured Zara marine jeans that are bell bottoms.
White Air Force One is a staple in every closet. Just trust me on this.
White platform – I purchased these in Portugal after making my husband enter every shoe store in the country. I wear these with dresses.
Grey Slip-On – I don’t wear these very often, though they’re incredibly comfortable. They’re Scholls, and I could walk in them forever. I typically slide these on when wearing a pair of capris, and I don’t want to wear running shoes.
Silver Slip-On – I think everyone should have a pair of crazy sneakers. These silver ones caught my eye because they’re slip-on, and I love silver. I wear them when I’m feeling spicy. For example, if I’m wearing an all-black outfit, the pop of silver adds interest.
Black Steve Madden – I was influenced to buy these from LivingwithLandyn when I saw her wearing these with joggers and a cute sweatshirt. They have an interesting way of tying up. They crisscross and have a different texture at the front, which makes them look a little dressier than your traditional running shoe.
P448 – I bought these at Nordstrom Rack in the US, and they were my stopgap as I was trying to decide whether to buy Golden Goose shoes. I decided to buy these, and I couldn’t be happier. The black and silver tweed is adorable. I wear them often and with everything.
I am currently eyeing the following pairs of sneakers: