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The rise of dress sneakers in menswear begs the question: what exactly makes them different from other types of sneakers? Well, for starters, dress sneakers are not designed for high-intensity workouts or sports. Instead, they straddle the line between formal and casual footwear. They feature sleek and stylish designs that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. In essence, dress sneakers are the perfect blend of fashion and function.
Are Dress Sneakers a Fad or Timeless Style?
Given their popularity in recent years, it’s natural to wonder whether dress sneakers are just a passing trend or something that will stand the test of time. While it’s impossible to predict the future of fashion, one thing is clear: dress sneakers have become a staple item in many men’s wardrobes. As fashion continues to evolve and adapt to modern times, it’s likely that dress sneakers will continue to be a viable option for men’s footwear. Whether they are a timeless piece of men’s style or just a fleeting trend, only time will tell.
When examining the appearance of dress sneakers, it’s easy to see why they earn their name. It’s all in the details. They feature a slim sole, flat horizontal laces, and fine materials like quality leather. Dress sneakers also possess an elegant last shape, unlike the chunky designs typical of athletic shoes. The muted monochromatic color palette of dress sneakers also sets them apart from their more colorful athletic counterparts.
Why Dress Sneakers Look Smarter than Athletic Shoes
Despite similar colorways, dress sneakers look smarter than traditional athletic shoes due to their design details. Athletic shoes often feature distracting elements like panels, mesh, and logos that interrupt the profile of the shoe, while dress sneakers maintain a sleek profile thanks to the simplicity of their design. Dress sneakers typically feature a derby construction, with the elongated lacing system mirroring that of historic sneakers like the Converse High Top.
The Difference Between Dress Sneakers and Frankenshoes
It’s important to note that dress sneakers are not frankenshoes, which try to combine multiple styles into one shoe and often fail to do any of them well. Dress sneakers know what they are and stick to their design, which is why they look smart and put together. The combination of materials and high-top design of frankenshoes make them look too casual and lack the elegance of dress sneakers.
Incorporating Dress Sneakers into a Classic Wardrobe: Tips and Tricks
If you consider yourself a lover of classic style, then you might be wondering if dress sneakers can fit into your wardrobe. Despite the challenges of mixing sneakers and classic style, the dress sneaker can work in a casual wardrobe. To achieve this, it is essential to keep things relaxed and casual. Think of the dress sneaker as similar to boat shoes or casual loafers, and pair them with items such as denim, chinos, sweaters, polo shirts, and OCBDs. However, it is not recommended to wear dress sneakers for business casual dress codes or with a suit. Instead, keep it casual by choosing a jacket made of casual fabrics like corduroy, cotton, linen, or flannel. Remember that keeping the overall relaxed vibe is key to successfully incorporating dress sneakers into a classic wardrobe.
The Future of Dress Shoes in Men’s Fashion
It’s no secret that dress sneakers have emerged as a major trend in men’s fashion. However, does this mean that the classic dress shoe is on its way out? Not at all. Style, like everything else, evolves over time. The classic, black, cap-toe Oxford is a prime example of how style has evolved over time.
The Evolution of Footwear for Men
In the 1800s, boots were the standard footwear choice for men, whether they were doing manual labour or strolling around the streets of London. However, the Oxonian shoe gained popularity among university students as it was less fussy and more comfortable. The shoe provided a similar look to the boots but with less effort. This is an interesting parallel to the rise of the dress sneaker in today’s fashion scene.
The Oxford Shoe and Dress Sneaker
The Oxford shoe was initially considered a casual way to dress, much like the dress sneaker is today. It’s fascinating to consider how the perception of a shoe can change over time. The Oxford shoe evolved to become the classic dress shoe we know today, and similarly, the dress sneaker is providing men with a new way to dress smart. The future of dress shoes in men’s fashion is far from bleak.
Dress Sneakers: Timeless or Trendy?
After discussing the history of dress sneakers, many wonder if they will remain classic or become a fad. Some believe they are a timeless piece, while others argue they have no place in men’s formal fashion. Regardless, the growing popularity of dress sneakers provides a variety to wardrobes. Each individual has their own unique style, like Preston, who typically prefers loafers or dress shoes over sneakers. However, he recently chose to try a pair of cordovan leather sneakers from Crown Northampton, which he found to be both comfortable and still versatile enough to fit his wardrobe. So, is it safe to say that dress sneakers have become a staple item in men’s fashion? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
A Review of My Summer Outfit
As the temperature rises in Minneapolis, I have opted for warm weather clothing that pairs perfectly with dress sneakers. My outfit today consists of a polo shirt, featuring a floral print and an interesting one-button collar. Yeossal has made this shirt for me, adding a touch of uniqueness to my wardrobe.
I have paired my shirt with classic navy chino shorts from Vineyard Vines, which I love because they fit my legs perfectly. To complete the look, I’m wearing a brown woven leather belt, ideal for the summer weather.
For my footwear, I have chosen a pair of classic white leather dress sneakers from Beckett Simonon. Despite being slightly worn out, I still love them for their comfort level. I’m planning to upgrade them soon, but until then, I’ll keep wearing them and taking good care of them.
You might be surprised to know that I’m wearing these sneakers without socks, but that’s not the case. I’m wearing a pair of gray and blue polka dot no-show socks from Fort Belvedere.