Sneakers paired with dresses are one of those styling combos that feel effortless, comfortable, and endlessly chic — especially when the temperatures rise. Sure, sandals and ballet flats have their moments, but on days when you’re on your feet for hours or simply don’t want to lean into delicate footwear, sneakers are the way to go.
What keeps this classic pairing fresh season after season? Variety — and this summer, there’s no shortage of options. Silver metallic sneakers add a subtle shine to denim dresses and bubble-hem minis. Retro running shoes bring a sporty contrast to crisp shirt dresses and puff sleeves. Chunky hiking sneakers lend a bit of edge to fluid slip dresses, while ballet-inspired sneakers — soft yet sporty — tone down overly sweet, girly styles.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best sneaker-and-dress combos to wear on repeat all season long.
Retro Sneakers + White Dresses
Lightweight and low-profile, retro running shoes—think slim, flat-soled trainers inspired by the ’70s and ’80s—are the perfect match for breezy white dresses. They offer just the right contrast without weighing down airy cotton or delicate eyelets.
Featured Picks:
- Reformation Terra Sneaker
- Jeffrey Campbell Willow Suede Sneakers
- Vans Super Lowpro Shoe
Dress Ideas:
- Tuckernuck V-neck Pleated Midi Dress
- ASOS DESIGN V-neck Short Sleeve Mini Dress
- J.Crew Embroidered Midi Dress
White Sneakers + Gingham Dresses
Clean and classic, white sneakers bring a fresh, grounded vibe to gingham dresses—whether you’re rocking a smocked mini or a full-skirted midi. They keep the look modern and wearable, not costumey.
Featured Picks:
- Everlane The Day Sneaker
- Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker
- Converse Jack Purcell Canvas
Dress Ideas:
- Ciao Lucia Gianluca Sun Gingham Cotton Dress
- Hill House Home The Ophelia Dress
- Eloquii Smocked Tiered Maxi Dress
Ballet Sneakers + Cotton Dresses
This season’s biggest sneaker trend, ballet sneakers hit the sweet spot between pretty and practical. They pair perfectly with bubble hems, drop waists, and puffed cotton silhouettes—offering a subtle nod to girlhood that’s charming but never too saccharine.
Featured Picks:
- Vivaia Square-toe Lace-up Satin Sneakerina
- Staud Gino Ballet Glide
- JW PEI Caitlin Lace-up Ballerina Sneakers
Dress Ideas:
- COS Gathered Open-back Midi Dress
- free-est Struttin’ Bubble Mini
- Madewell The Melody Scoopback Smocked Midi Dress
Hiking Sneakers + Mini Dresses
Chunky hiking sneakers provide a sturdy, unexpected contrast to airy summer minis, preventing your look from tipping too sweet or delicate. Pair them with babydoll shapes, swingy hems, or smocked styles to emphasize the cool, sporty mix.
Featured Picks:
- On Cloudaway 2
- Salomon Xt-whisper Sneaker
- Hoka Anacapa Breeze Low
Dress Ideas:
- Maeve Scoop-neck Mini Swing Dress
- Old Navy Square-neck Linen-blend Mini Dress
- Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Mini Dress
Athletic Sneakers + Slip Dresses
The sporty + feminine combo that Scandinavian style stars swear by, athletic sneakers give a relaxed, casual edge to sleek slip dresses. It’s an easy way to balance elegance with everyday practicality.
Featured Picks:
- Nike Zoom Vomero 5 Sneaker
- Sam Edelman Miles Performance Athletic Sneaker
- ASICS Gel-kayano 14 Sneakers
Dress Ideas:
- Lululemon Maxi Satin Slip Dress
- A New Day Midi Slip Dress
- LOFT Bias Midi Slip Dress
Metallic Sneakers + Denim Dresses
Silver sneakers are everywhere right now, and they’re the perfect way to add a subtle dose of athleisure glam to denim dresses — from button-up minis to breezy midis. They bring just the right amount of shine without feeling over the top.
