Like Batman and Robin or pineapple on pizza, suits and sneakers are an unlikely marriage of opposing forces.
In theory, this sartorial minefield is best reserved for students, commuters and Ellen DeGeneres, but find the right combination and you’re a red-carpet ready Robert Downey Jr – and who doesn’t fancy themselves as Tony Stark just a little bit?
When dressing down formalwear, it’s important to pay attention to the colours, materials and silhouettes of your sneakers.
Pick a pair of kicks that will elevate your outfit rather than throwing gym-weathered runners into the mix, and just think – if the modern City gent can wear sneakers through the working week, why shouldn’t he wear a suit after hours? Remember: real style is all about experimentation.
To help hit that smart-casual sweet spot, we’ve compiled a list of the ten smartest sneaker types you can get away wearing with suits.
The Cult Sneaker
Common Projects Original Achilles sneakers
Contemporary style at its finest, Common Projects’ Original Achilles sneakers have gained cult status thanks to their minimalist design and superior construction.
This white version is perfect for creating city-smart looks.
£290, mrporter.com
The Subtle Sneaker
Grenson Sneaker 1s
A modern take on 1970s tennis shoes, Grenson’s Sneaker 1s are meticulously crafted from panels of smooth and textured suede.
A top-notch choice for the discerning sneaker lover, pair with a good suit for an easy sartorial win.
£195, matchesfashion.com
The Vintage Sneaker
Converse All Star Chuck ’70
For a laissez-faire approach to suit styling, try the Converse All Star Chuck ’70.
A modern remake of the 1970s classic, additional vintage details include stitching on the sidewall and a heavier-grade canvas upper for durability.
£75, converse.com
The Retro Sneaker
Acne Studios Pereys
Acne Studios’ signature minimalist aesthetic is epitomised in these Pereys.
Hallmarked at the back with the Swedish label’s face motif, the smooth leather and chunky rubber soles make for a fresh crescendo to skinny tailoring.
£290, matchesfashion.com
The Chunky Sneaker
Gucci Rhytons
Fashion diehards have been charting the ugly sneakers’ pilgrimage from runway to reality since 2018, and this pair of Gucci Rhytons arrive with a 1990s-inflected feel that encapsulates the trend.
Crafted in Italy from distressed leather.
£615, matchesfashion.com
The Hybrid Sneaker
Berluti The Fast Track
Berluti’s hybridised brogue sneaker, The Fast Track, is an answer to the calls of modern gentlemen.
Its rubber traction sole ensures the optimum flexibility of a trainer, while Venetian panels of hand-tanned leather create the illusion of a smarter shoe.
£910, mrporter.com
The Sustainable Sneaker
Veja V-10
Opt for Veja’s white leather V-10 trainers for a sustainable alternative to off-duty dressing.
With materials sourced from the Amazonian forest, these low top trophies are a smart punctuation to any nine-to-five outfit.
£115, matchesfashion.com
The Subtle Sneaker
Grenson Sneaker 1s
A modern take on 1970s tennis shoes, Grenson’s Sneaker 1s are meticulously crafted from panels of smooth and textured suede.
A top-notch choice for the discerning sneaker lover, pair with a good suit for an easy sartorial win.
£195, matchesfashion.com
The Handcrafted Sneaker
Bottega Veneta slip-ons
A large-scale take on the brand’s signature Intrecciato weave, these Bottega Veneta slip-ons are perfect for those with an eye for detail.
Wear with graphic lines and block colour for an understated flair guaranteed to highlight their craftsmanship.
£540, mrporter.com
The Original Sneaker
Adidas Superstar
A lifestyle staple for streetwear enthusiasts; musicians, athletes and artists have passed the Adidas Superstar down through the decades.
The instantly recognisable shell toe adds 50 years of authenticity to any look.
£79.95, asos.com
