Perfect Pairings: summer dresses + sporty sneaks
fashionThe ultimate summer styling challenge is mastering cool and comfy while still looking pulled together and on trend, despite the heat and humidity. Throwing on a dress is a total no-brainer, but when it comes to the shoe pairing, adding freshness and edge to your look is as easy as a touch of the unexpected. Fashion loves a good contrast, and who doesn’t love a comfy shoe? On the heels of the athleisure trend, this summer it girls everywhere are pairing their love of athletic footwear with their favourite flirty dresses for a fresh take on warm weather dressing.
Here are three of our current fave ways to mix it up:
Pairing #1 – The floral sundress + the striped kicks
The casual nature of summer dressing makes print-mixing feel oh-so-natural. The floral sundress is a seasonal classic, but a dressier shoe can take it too far into ‘special occasion’ territory – or just make cycling around the city less than practical. Instead of reaching for a strappy sandal, try pairing this hot weather staple with a contrasting, yet still complimentary, striped pair of sneakers. It adds just the right amount of cool tomboy edge to the tailored, feminine look of the dress.
Pairing #2 – The day-to-night midi + the sleek trainers
A red midi dress can take you all over town in the summer, from the air-conditioned office to an outdoor evening festival. But we’re loving swapping out sandals or heels for a sleek trainer. Not only does the look channel fashion-girl-of-the-moment vibes, but your feet will thank you as you cruise through after-hours events and street festivals.
Pairing #3 – The ultra-feminine maxi + the ultra cool Cons
A flowy, tiered maxi dress in creamy crochet is the ultimate in dreamy boho summer style. So why not flip girly on its head and add a classic pair of Converse as your footwear of choice? We love the unexpected juxtaposition of flower-child-feminine and punk-roots-casual. It’s a modern look that let’s you keep your cool – even when taking your pooch (or three!) for a hot summer stroll.
What’s your secret to putting together pretty summer dresses and super casual sneakers? Show us how you would style a dress + runners on Instagram by tagging @StVitalCentre – we’d love to see!
Did something catch your eye? Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks (check stores for availability):
Look #1 (floral)
Blue floral dress: Hudson's Bay (Design Lab), $68
White striped sneakers: Boathouse, $65.00
Necklace: Le Chateau, $29.95
Cruiser bike: Sport Chek, $315.99
Look #2 (midi)
Black leather jacket: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $403
Grey running shoes: Browns (New Balance), $100
Black purse: Sears (Nine West) $85
Look #3 (maxi)
White crochet tiered maxi dress: American Eagle Outfitters, $59.95
Black sneakers: Browns, Converse, $55
Silver 3-strand necklace: Le Chateau, $15