Suits
How to wear a suit with sneakers (without looking off)
By sneakersInn team · Updated
A suit works with sneakers when the sneakers are clean, plain and low-profile, the suit is slim and relaxed (linen, cotton or light wool), and the rest of the outfit is simple: a tee, polo or open-collar shirt and no tie. Keep it for smart casual events; never wear sneakers with a suit to a funeral, interview or formal wedding.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| White, off-white, black or suede low-tops | Chunky, running or high-top sneakers |
| Plain designs with few logos | Bright colours and big logos |
| Spotless leather and white soles | Dusty or creased pairs |
| Trousers cropped or with no break | Long trousers bunching on the shoe |
| Tee, knitted polo or open-collar shirt | A formal tie |
| No-show socks or plain socks | Sport socks |
Which sneakers work with a suit?
Low-top, slim sneakers in smooth leather or suede. White is the classic choice because it looks clean against any suit colour. Off-white and grey are softer; black looks sharp with a black or charcoal suit. Our guide to why every man needs white sneakers covers what to look for.
Which suits work with sneakers?
Relaxed suits: linen, cotton or light wool in navy, light grey, stone or olive, with a slim cut and trousers that end at or just above the ankle. A formal, structured charcoal suit with a sharp shirt and tie looks odd with sneakers. See linen suits.
What do I wear under the jacket?
- A plain white or black tee for the most relaxed look.
- A knitted polo for smart casual.
- An oxford or linen shirt, collar open.
- A fine knit in a matching tone for air-conditioned evenings.
How long should the trousers be?
Short enough to sit on top of the sneaker with no break, or end just above the ankle. Long trousers that pile up on a sneaker look like a mistake.
When is this look right?
- Smart casual parties and dinners
- Relaxed or outdoor weddings, if the couple's dress code allows
- Creative or casual offices
- Concerts and Detty December events. See festival and concert outfits.
When should I wear leather shoes instead?
At funerals, interviews, formal weddings, church services where suits are the norm and business meetings. In those cases, wear derbies, oxfords or loafers.
Three outfits to try
- Navy cotton suit, white tee, white leather sneakers. The simplest version.
- Light grey suit, navy knitted polo, grey suede sneakers. Tonal and smart.
- Black suit, black tee, black leather sneakers. For evening events.
Questions
Do I wear socks?
No-show socks if the trousers are cropped. Thin plain socks in the trouser colour otherwise. See what socks to wear.
Can I wear a tie with sneakers?
A knitted or casual tie can work with a relaxed suit; a formal silk tie usually doesn't.
Where can I get clean low-top sneakers?
In our shop. Our sneakers are high-quality replicas of popular designs, and every product page says so. See also the 5 sneakers every man needs in his rotation.