Spring has a way of making people examine our wardrobes with an eye of disdain. Well, for me, at least. When the weather starts to get sunnier, I’m left looking at the contents of my closet, thinking, “Did I really wear these last year?” I then, of course, grab the box marked DONATE and chuck a few things into it.
If you’re like me and want to reinvigorate your wardrobe, the best way to do it is with simple changes here and there. Adding an item that can easily be incorporated into your existing wardrobe makes for a low-cost, high-impact way to introduce new textures, colors, or ~vibes~ without having to spend an arm and a leg.
For spring especially, I find the easiest way to get ready for the warmer days and more social events is to shop for a new pair of sneakers. I don’t know what it is, but a new pair of shoes has a way of making an outfit come together. It’s ironic, isn’t it, that the last thing one puts on before heading out the door has a way of defining an entire outfit?
With that said, spring shoes need to have the right balance to them, too. I stray away from pastels too much, as you don’t want to limit the seasonality of the shoe itself. I also try to avoid too many thick-soled or rubber-topped shoes that are a bit too tactical (and, really, most shoes have some sort of waterproofing to them these days). I think the best piece of advice to consider is to find a sneaker style that can go with you throughout your day. Find something that can work during the daytime as easily as nighttime, and a shoe that can handle all day wear and the varying temperatures that comes with Springtime.
These eight shoes that fit that criteria for me and, hopefully, for you, too.
Top Shoes for Elevating Your Spring Style
Adidas Samba
A classic design in a low profile, the Adidas Samba is something of a streetwear standard these days. With its classic three-stripe branding and multitude of colorways, it has just enough design elements to keep this shoe intriguing without ever being ostentatious.
Buy Now $75+
Viberg Safari Janus Calf Suede Sneaker
Viberg’s suede sneaker is a thing of beauty. With its 80’s-inspired silhouette and honey-colored palette, it’s the perfect balance of high and low end that makes this shoe easily one that will never go out of style.
Buy Now $610
Wolf and Shepherd Cruise Lace-Up
Wolf and Shepherd’s Cruise Lace-Up has a really trimmed-down silhouette that makes this shoe a bit sleek, but still very accessible for everyday wear. With a full-grain leather upper, it’s a shoe that looks and feels expensive.
Buy Now $189
Gola Made in England – 1905 Men’s Track Mesh 317 Sneakers
Gola’s 317 Sneakers go back into the archives of the brand and take a nod to 1970’s athletic design to make a fun and retro-modern shoe for the contemporary wearer. With its bright yellow body and contrasting yellow finishes, it’s a bold shoe that would add a little bit of sunshine on any rainy Spring days.
Buy Now $250
Orlebar Brown Larson Stripe Sneakers
Orlebar Brown offers elevated holiday-wear that look as good as they feel. Their claim to fame is that you can swim in these shoes, making them the perfect beach accompaniment while still being stylish enough to wear to dinner later in the evening.
Buy Now $225
New Balance 574 Core
As classic as they come, the 574’s are an iconic design that’s as popular for dads in Indianapolis as baristas in Brookyln. With its chunky body and muted colorways, it’s a shoe that is meant to last and can go with practically anything you already have in your wardrobe.
Buy Now $85
Allen Edmonds Santa Rosa Slip-on Suede Sneaker
You’d be mistaken to think a slip-on can’t be stylish and the Santa Rosa suede slip-on by Allen Edmonds proves this. With an elongated upper and a tonal lace accent, it’s a sleek blank canvas that highlights the muted suede colorways of this shoe and shows us that sometimes simple is better.
Buy Now $255
LUCA Terra Low Sneaker
For those unfortunate souls still heading into the office every day, the LUCA Terra Low Sneaker is a great option to add to your business casual wardrobe rotation. With its warm brown suede upper and leather overlays, it has a rich color palette that’s neutral – but not at all boring. It’s made to combine the best parts of a sneaker and a classic Oxford, making it the perfect shoe to dress up for happy hours with coworkers and Spring weddings alike.
Buy Now $175
