Look, we'd never tell you to give up on leggings and sneakers as an outfit combination. But fall has arrived and with it, we're ready to endorse a new way to wear our favorite comfortable footwear. As it turns out, so are some of our favorite trendsetters, who are turning to more sophisticated staples paired with cool sneakers.
Instead of athleisure staples, we're spotting sneakers worn with plaid coats, smart suiting, and polished dresses. The dressed-up sneaker outfits come as we leave the easy, breezy summer behind for a more sophisticated season, but they also mirror so much of the structured business dressing we've seen on the runways the past few weeks. As trends swing toward power dressing, even sneakers are getting the polished spin. So if you're looking to give this new take a try, we're here to offer a little inspiration (along with shopping, of course).
Read on for seven ways to tackle sneaker dressing for fall, and shop our favorite styles to help you pull it all off!
On Suki Waterhouse: Golden Goose Deluxe Brand sneakers
Instead of skinny jeans or fitted leggings, try wide-leg trousers for a dressed-up option.
On Rita Ora: Fay Prince of Wales coat; Chanel fanny pack
Bright white sneakers help dress down a sophisticated, structured coat.
On Kendall Jenner: Balenciaga Cross-Over Front Denim Jacket ($1150); R13 Skinny Kick Flare Trousers ($795); Prada belt bag
Plaid is the print of the season, so try balancing it out with sporty sneakers.
On Selena Gomez: Zoë Jordan coat; Marc Jacobs Corduroy Mini Skirt ($275); Golden Goose Deluxe Brand Superstar Leather Metallic Sneakers ($655)
For a look that feels dressed up but not overly fussy, try styling sneakers with a corduroy skirt or classic leather.
On Zendaya: Seen Users pinstripe suit; Adidas sneakers
Suiting feels instantly cooler when paired with relaxed sneakers.
On Karlie Kloss: HVN Maria Crêpe de Chine Dress ($625); Valentino Garavini Fly Crew Suede Sneakers ($675); Saint Laurent Blogger Bag ($995); Garret Leight sunglasses
For a daytime dress look, swap out heels for comfier shoes.
On Jourdan Dunn: Giuseppe Zanotti clutch
When styled with more structured pieces, sneakers work for nighttime just as well as during the day.
Get the Look Now
These pants are an easy choice for the office.
Pair these classic white sneakers with bold fall hues.
'Tis the season to try plaid pants.
For an extra-chill ensemble, try these slip-ons.
A blazer makes any outfit feel instantly more polished.
These old-school sneakers are an NYC favorite.
This dress is perfect for a day when you're headed from the office to drinks.
Don't be afraid of sneakers that make a statement.
An extra-long coat adds a dose of elegance.
These sneakers are a celebrity favorite.
Stripes are a workwear classic.
Add a bit of extra height with platform sneakers.
An unexpected twist on the work shirt.
These iconic sneakers will never go out of style.Want more trends? Models are all over this "naked" look right now!
-
Serious Fashion People Are Overlooking Designer Sneakers for This Rich Pair That's Only $36They're styling them with everything from jeans to wide-leg pants.
-
Every Chic Person I Know Is Setting Aside Chunky Earrings for This Timeless TrendWhen Kendall, Hailey, and Jasmine all make the switch, you know you better pay attention.
-
I've Given Up Chunky Sneakers, and Only Care About This Trendier Style (and My Favorites are On Sale for Black Friday)Chic. Period.
-
Just so You Know, Zara Already Has All the Best Shoes for Winter 2025Shop before they sell out.
-
If You're Going to Wear a Dress With Ankle Boots, This Is the Trend That Looks the Least DatedPSA via Suki Waterhouse.
-
If You Want Your Sneakers to Look Elevated (Not Basic), Wear Them With These Pants Instead of JeansThis easy swap will work wonders to make your outfits look more sophisticated.
-
It's Official: These Are *the* It-Girl Uggs of Winter 2025Selena Gomez just solidified it.
-
I'm a Shopping Editor—These Are the Cool Shoes I Care About From theReplica Store Black Friday SaleTake up to 60% off 2025 shoe trends inside.
