For most of us, sky-high platforms and stilettos are nice … for about five minutes. Luckily, working from home has fueled a comfortable shoe trend that doesn't appear to be going anywhere. Just as they were last year, sneakers are now a perfectly acceptable — and stylish — option not just for hanging out and running errands, but for work and more formal occasions, too.
And we're not the only ones who think that. Lifestyle expert Patrice J. Williams recently shared with TODAY some of her suggested sneakers and styling tips. To channel a hip, laid-back vibe through all of your outfits, these sneakers can easily be worn from day to night.
Keep reading for the best expert- and Shop TODAY-recommended kicks to pair with everything from dresses to mom jeans to work slacks and beyond.
Sneakers seen on TODAY | Sneakers to wear with dresses and skirts | Sneakers to wear with mom jeans | Sneakers to wear with work pants | How we chose
The best everyday sneakers seen on TODAY
Metallic
Jibs Men’s Mid Rise Sneaker Bootie
This sneaker is combined with the silhouette of a sneaker and a boot. That way, it is swift to slip on like you're favorite bootie, and has the traction and comfort of an everyday sneaker.
Steve Madden Everlie Low-Top Lace-Up Sneaker
Bring on the glitter! These Steve Madden sneakers were made to stand out from the heel to the toe. From a metallic upper toe to a studded side profile, everything about this shoe is meant to make a statement no matter where you go.
Sam Edelman Ethyl Lace Up Sneaker
Although comfort is the main ingredient for a quality shoe, they need to make a statement in order to stand out. For instance, these Sam Edelman sneakers might be simple in design, but they will surely shine with every outfit.
Adidas Country OG Shoes
Adidas’ Country OG Shoes are sporty, chic and have a whole lot of history to them. They were once used as running shoes in the '70s, but are now a closet staple. Since the pair is available in men's only, be sure to check the size chart for the women's sizing conversion.
Slip-on style
Toms Jocelyn Taupe Espadrille Sneaker
In every aspect, this espadrille sneaker is effortless. From the metallic heel to the slip-on design, the shoe will quickly become an everyday option.
Kizik Milan Sneaker
According to the brand, their sneakers don't require your hands to put them on. The heel of the shoe has a unique technology where it eases its tension to allow you to slip it on with little effort. How easy is that?
Opt to convert from men's sizing to women's, or check out the women's version here.
Kizik Vegas Sneaker
The same "slip-on" technology applies to Kizik's Vergas sneaker, except this style is more sleek than vintage. See the women's version here in similar color ways.
Retro cool
New Balance Numeric 574 Vulc
This unisex skate shoe combines elements from the original 574 shoe with a more modern flare. For example, it offers a good amount of grip on the soles, has a low top and pops of color around the 'N' symbol along the back of the heel.
Saucony Jazz Triple
Just looking at these shoes makes us want to tease our hair and throw on some bright makeup. They combine elements of past trends with the current, such as the vibrant hues throughout the sneaker and the platform sole. The brand suggests these sneakers for anyone looking for a bold shoe with "a timeless vibe."
Travel friendly
Crocs On the Clock Sneaker
You might know Crocs for their beloved clogs, but did you know that they're sneakers are just as comfortable, too? No matter if you're rushing through the airport or tackling a new venture, these shoes are designed to be a happy medium between durable and breathable, with premium footbeds, slip-resistant treads and other notable features to maximize your experience.
For women's sizing, shop here.
Aerosoles Bramston Denim Sneaker
Williams owns a pair of these denim sneakers and is a fan herself. The reason behind the love is because they're incredibly cushioned and flexible from the back to the outsole. But we also have to mention that there is a hidden wedge for added height that makes these a favorite, too.
Sneakers to wear with dresses and skirts
Celebrity stylist Brendan Cannon previously shared with TODAY some of his recommended sneaker and styling picks for 2024.
“Sneakers really go with everything right now,” Cannon told TODAY. “Not only are they extremely versatile, but they add an instant cool factor to any outfit.”
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Classic
These iconic high-tops come in a variety of colors to match your look. They have a rising ankle silhouette that makes more of a statement than their low-top counterparts. Wear them with with all hem lengths from maxi to mini.
Cariuma OCA LOW Off-White Sneakers
Add a sporty finish to a floral frock with these low-top canvas kicks. According to the brand, each pair is crafted from recycled plastic bottles and ethically sourced materials such as organic cotton and bamboo. If white isn’t your jam, there are 16 other colors to choose from.
Nike Blazer Mid '77
These timeless sneakers feature suede accents and retro Nike branding that will uplift any outfit. Shop TODAY intern Jem Alabi has worn these shoes since middle school and says they "somehow look even better when they're dirty." But, don't worry, there are plenty of ways to clean white sneakers if spotless shoes are your style.
Veja Esplar Sneakers
Veja — pronounced vey-ja — are an “it-girl” staple, as shown by the many celebs seen out in the popular shoe. This pair, with its minimal white-and-gold design, goes with everything from flowy dresses to miniskirts — and, according to the brand, they’re eco-friendly. The French footwear brand prides itself on using only ethical and sustainable materials.
Sneakers to wear with mom jeans
ZGR Women’s Canvas High Top Sneakers
Finish a pair of cropped mom jeans with these canvas high tops that come in 24 colors. They have glowing Amazon reviews, with wearers commenting on how "comfortable" and "supportive" they are. With how affordable they are, you can get a few different colors.
Vans Checkerboard Slip-Ons
Mom jeans — the high-waisted, relaxed style that was was everywhere in the ‘80s — is back with a vengeance. Cannon suggests wearing them with a pair of retro slip-on sneakers for the ultimate nostalgic look.
Reebox Club C 85 Vintage Shoes
Cannon encourages his clients to have fun with mom jeans by anchoring them with throwback trainers. These vintage options channel that vibe, while also keeping a slim silhouette to match the more relaxed mom jean fit.
Sorel Out N About III Low Sneaker
When you need a reliable shoe, Shop TODAY's senior SEO editor, Jess Bender, recommends these rain-ready waterproof kicks. She says these sneakers "haven't let me down yet (and I've had them for at least a year and a half)."
With a waterproof construction and rubber materials, this pair is meant for especially challenging days when puddles and slippery sidewalks are on your path.
Nike Air Max 90
Shop TODAY associate editor Sierra Hoeger got these Nike sneakers after she "saw how cool" her "sneakerhead sister" looked in them. Hoeger has worn the shoes for a year and recommends pairing them with jeans or slacks. She says they look great with sweats too, if you're aiming for a casual look.
Sneakers to wear with dress pants
Reebok Classic Leather Shoes
Reebok pulled logos from its archives to deliver you this retro leather shoe. Shop TODAY commerce editor Emma Stressman tested the kicks for Shop TODAY's 2023 Travel Awards and still wears them all the time. "They're comfy and stylish enough that I can wear them into the office," she says.
Adidas Women’s Grand Court Sneaker
Combine a sporty shoe with dress pants for an effortlessly chic and comfy look. “Adidas look super cool with trousers,” Cannon says. These low-profile options can play double-duty with both work pants and flowy skirts for a laid-back vibe.
Nike Air Force 1 '07
Cannon loves a sport shoe with a trouser pant. Nike’s beloved Air Force 1 sneakers would look sharp with straight-leg trousers, but you can really wear this versatile style with anything. Shop TODAY editor Julie Ricevuto can attest to the shoes' versatility — she has been wearing Air Force 1 sneakers since high school and doesn't plan to stop.
Thousand Fell Women's Lace Up Black
These sustainable sneakers have a stain-proof upper and water-resistant coating that Shop TODAY editor Vivien Moon can't get enough of. She says, "all you have to do is clean the rubber and laces to look good as new!" Stewart has the solid white pair and says "they cleaned up beautifully in just a few minutes" after she wore them to a muddy music festival.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team spoke with experts in the fashion industry, including lifestyle expert Patrice J. Williams and celebrity stylist Brendan Cannon, to gain insight into choosing the right sneaker, as well as tips for proper styling.
We then scoured the internet and chose shopper-loved items that met the guidelines provided by the experts. We also shared a few of our personal favorites.