The style rule to follow if you want to wear sneakers to the office

Can I still wear sneakers to work?

Rumours that sneakers are moving from the forefront of wardrobes and returning to the fragrant confines of gym bags have been greatly exaggerated. The sneaker has dominated below-the-ankle trends since lockdown reduced our tolerance for high heels and leather soles, but some analysts are predicting a dress-shoe renaissance, especially with an office comeback underway. What these analysts fail to take into account, though, is that the dress code of most offices has changed.

Sneakers are now acceptable in most workplaces: what’s different is the way that they look. Luxury labels, such as Fendi and Prada, continue to evolve styles on the runway, leading to their integration into fashionable working wardrobes. We’re also moving away from chunky sneakers in
favour of more streamlined hybrid styles. The most on-trend example is the “sneakerina”, which looks like a rugged ballet flat – with laces and rubber soles. Meanwhile, Miu Miu has also successfully been cross-breeding sneakers with brogues for a very interesting look.

Inspired by the streamlined running styles of the ’70s, the Marathon sneaker from Dries Van Noten has been popular on fashion-week rows of late and now, more affordable brands like Nike, Puma and Adidas are offering similar, low-rise styles.

Just show that you mean business by matching your socks to your trousers or skirt, rather than your sneakers.

Read more from Damien Woolnough:
Bare knees in the boardroom? Yes, you can wear shorts to work
Dressing for the office: Investment pieces starting at $80
‘Much better dressed’: The brutal verdict on Sydney v Melbourne style

Got a style conundrum? Email damien.woolnough@nine.com.au

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