The 5 Basic Sneakers Every Woman Needs
The secret to avoiding the conundrum of having nothing to wear is always keeping your closet stocked with the essentials. If you open your wardrobe and there are staples to pick from, getting out the door quicker (and with less stress) is a very real possibility. Of course, the classics run the gamut of categories including clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Today, we're focusing on a very specific genre because it's one that we all adore: sneakers.
We know we don't have to tell you that athleisure and sneakers have had a major moment the last few years, however, it's safe to say that this comfortable footwear trend is no longer trend but a mainstay. As such, there are a few key pairs that we think every woman would benefit from owning—five to be exact. Ahead, learn what these basic sneaker styles are, why you should own them, and shop our picks in case you need to fill the gaps this season.
Bright White
A clean white sneaker is the most versatile of the bunch; it goes with everything and always looks polished.
High Tops
High-top sneakers will always feel on the slightly more cool side—and that's always a good thing.
Trainers
Whether you're pairing them with a pleated skirt for the office or a tee and jeans for the weekend, a pair of trainers should always be in your rotation.
Slip-On
For an element of ease and effortlessness, sip-on sneakers are the way to go.
The Icons
Converse, Nike, Reebok, Fila, Adidas—the list goes on and on. Whichever iconic footwear giant you're loyal to, make sure you're representing in your shoe closet.
Up Next: The 10 most popular sneakers under $100.
Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)
-
The Coolest French Woman Says That Skinny Jeans With These Shoes Are In for 2025
I'm taking her word for it.
By Allyson Payer
-
If a Fashion Person Wears Leggings in 2025, It'll Be With These Shoe Trends
These winning shoes make total sense.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
If the Latest Shoe Trends Speak to You, You Better Listen—3 Standout Picks
These are already starting to sell out.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Sneaker Color Trend Everyone With Rich Taste Is Wearing in L.A.
It's giving wealth.
By Michelle Scanga
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes
"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
By Anna LaPlaca
-
The $100 Sold-Out It Sneakers Celebs Are Obsessed With Are Finally Back in Stock
Hurry up and place that order.
By Allyson Payer
-
Gigi Hadid Just Wore the $90 Sneakers That Look Perfect With Straight-Leg Jeans
Step right up.
By Drew Elovitz
-
Hailey Bieber Just Wore the '90s Sneaker Trend Women in Paris Have Had on All Year
Is it on your radar yet?
By Allyson Payer