I've Done the Research: These Are the 6 Best Sneakers to Wear With Skirts

I cannot overstate how happy it makes me that sneakers have become not only an acceptable footwear option for almost every scenario but also a bona fide fashion staple. Comfortable, versatile, and available in a range of silhouettes and colors, sneakers are the shoes you can confidently sign up to wear all day long with no fear of aching feet or blisters. Once summer comes around, heels low and high seem to slyly work their way onto the scene. When I put on a skirt or dress, I begrudgingly find myself reaching for heeled sandals out of the belief that they're the only style that will match. No more!

@marina_torres wearing Sambas with a white skirt.

(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Don't get me wrong—heels will always have their place, and I will always love the boost of confidence that the little lift provides. But some days, practicality has to win, and why should it mean sacrificing on the fashion front? Extensive Instagram scrolling has confirmed my belief that sneakers can, in fact, look great with skirts. You just have to find the right pairing.

If you like the understated, minimalist look, you'll want to opt for svelte silhouettes in muted tones, like the classic Converse or the much-loved Samba. If you want a slightly retro vibe that can dress down a skirt you worry looks too polished, pair your mini or slinky maxi with a chunky-soled style like the New Balance 550. Whatever your preference, I think I've found the six sneaker styles that will go with almost any skirt. Happy shopping!

The Best Sneakers to Wear With Skirts This Summer

1. Converse

@camillecharriere wearing Converse with a slip skirt and striped sweater.

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Style Notes: Trust Camille Charrière to create a seriously chic look that exudes French sophistication. The pairing of Converse with a slinky slip skirt and Breton-stripe sweater may seem unexpected, but it manages to give the whole look an effortless, relaxed vibe that completely works.

Shop the Look

2. Pop of Color

@nnennaechem wearing pink sneakers with a blazer and skirt.

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Style Notes: Even if the summer weather refuses to cooperate, you can brighten up an overcast day with brightly colored trainers. Pink or green, blue or yellow, pick the pair that brings you joy, and style them with your favorite dark pieces.

Shop the Look

3. Sambas

@francescasaffari wearing Sambas with a white skirt and vest.

(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Style Notes: This look is so simple yet so effective—especially since it's made up of pieces that are on-trend this season. I love the contrast of the tailored silhouette of the vest with the voluminous skirt. Sambas really aren't going anywhere, especially when they pair so well with skirts like this.

Shop the Look

4. Running Shoes

@amaka.hamelijnck wearing running shoes with a boho skirt.

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Style Notes: Yes, you can make your running shoes a fashion item—just pick them wisely. I love how Amaka Hamelijnck has mixed the athletic, technical style with these bohemian-inspired pieces to create an edgy yet effortless outfit.

Shop the Look

5. New Balance 550s

@aimeesong wearing New Balance sneakers with a white tennis skirt.

(Image credit: @aimeesong)

Style Notes: Anyone else inspired by Zendaya's Challengers outfits and looking to embrace the tenniscore trend? Take the tennis skirt off the court and into the weekend by pairing it with retro-inspired New Balance sneakers, whose chunky sole provides a useful lift to extend your legs.

Shop the Look

6. Gazelles

@kimturkington_ wearing Gazelle trainers with a miniskirt and blazer.

(Image credit: @kimturkington_)

Style Notes: If you're not quite sold on Sambas, Adidas's other popular style, the Gazelle, might be the fit for you. The differences are very subtle, but you'll find a fresh mix of colorways and a soccer shoe inspired vibe. The streamlined silhouette and narrow fit make them the ideal shoes to pair with miniskirts for an elevated yet relaxed look.

Shop the Look

This post originally appeared onBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK.

Explore More:
Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.