Why Colorful Sneakers, and Why Now?

Colorful sneakers are showing up everywhere, from the boardroom to the brunch table. It’s not really a surprise since most offices have a hybrid work-from-home or fully remote work environment, and there is a big desire for comfort meets style.

Wearing colorful sneakers is an opportunity for you to show up on brand, make a statement, have fun, and be more memorable. All the fun new styles feel modern and practical and are a surprisingly effective way to infuse your wardrobe with personality.

As a wardrobe stylist, I recently had the opportunity to contribute to a CNN Underscored article on the rise of colorful sneakers. I was featured in their expert roundup and shared styling advice as a wardrobe stylist, offering guidance on how people over 45 can incorporate color into their footwear in a fun, modern, and completely wearable way. It was an honor to share my insight on how this playful trend fits into personal branding and style across generations.

Can Anyone Wear This Trend?

Absolutely. There’s no expiration date on style. The key to wearing any trend is authenticity. If you are 45+ and wondering if colorful sneakers are for you, the answer is YES. I know men and women who wear colorful shoes as a way to stand out and spark a conversation.

You can do what feels authentic to you but if you are looking for guidance and your style is:

• Classic: You can try soft metallics or a pair of red sneakers, which will pair well with neutrals
• Bold or creative: Try animal prints or a hot pink, bright blue, or orange
• Sporty or laid-back: Opt for pastels or retro two-tones

How to Choose the Right Pair

Before you start searching the web or shopping, be sure to ask yourself:

• What colors dominate your closet?
• Do you want to be subtle or make a statement?
• Will these sneakers go with multiple outfits?

You can pair neutrals, like navy, camel, and black, with vibrant shoes in complementary colors, or balance a bold wardrobe with similar bold colors or neutral tones like ivory and camel. Think: not too matchy, just complementary.

How to Style Colorful Sneakers

While you can always wear your colorful sneakers with jeans, you can also try pairing them with:

• Dresses or skirts
• Slacks or up-leveled joggers
• Monochrome outfits with colorful shoes as the exclamation point

My Top 3 Colorful Sneaker Picks (All Under $200)

1. J.Crew Rec Sneakers in Crinkle Metallic Leather
These are a low profile sneaker that are easy to pair with navy, black, olive, and more. They are under $100 and are understated yet eye-catching.

2. Sam Edelman Langley 3 Lace-Up Sneakers
These sneakers are available in leather or suede, allowing you to choose from bold or muted colors. They are comfortable enough for travel and stylish enough for everyday wear.

3. Gola Elan Sneakers
These are available in over 20 color options (see Amazon link) and can be paired with jeans, skirts, pants, or dresses. These sneakers are also under $120, and while I have them in pink, I may very well need them in another color. Shop on Amazon

Your brand never sleeps, even on your feet. As I share in Chapter Two of The Style Advantage: I Say What HR Can’t, how you show up matters. Colorful sneakers are one more way to align your wardrobe with your brand and confidence.

Ready to stand out, be memorable, and show up consistently so you are unforgettable and top of mind with all your clients and colleagues? Join my email list for more tips or book a Style Inspo Session.