I wear dresses almost daily when summer rolls around. And when it comes to pairing my dresses with shoes, whether I'm sightseeing in a new city or just want to wear something casual for running errands around town, a pair of comfy sneakers is a cute alternative to sandals or heels. Below, the 13 best sneakers to wear with dresses recommended by PureWow editors, plus expert advice for styling this chic and easy combination.
13 Sneakers to Wear with Dresses for a Foolproof Spring and Summer Fit
Dresses and sneakers are the perfect combo
•
Updated Apr 22, 2025
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
Dasha Burobina for PureWow
The Best Sneakers to Wear with Dresses at a Glance
Meet the Expert
Claire Asher is a the fashion product director at Boohoo, a fashion website known for affordable, trendy styles including clothing, accessories, shoes and more.
How I Chose the Best Sneakers to Wear with a Dress
To narrow down the best sneakers to wear with dresses, I tapped PureWow editors to get their top shoe picks. They’ve worn in their recommended styles, having walked countless miles around the country, from Los Angeles to New York. They focused on stylish options that pair well with a number of dresses, from linen minis to poplin flowy frocks and more. I also referred to brands PureWow readers know and love to round out the list, keeping in mind the styling advice I received from fashion expert Claire Asher (which you can find below).
Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.
Best Overall
What I Like
- low profile
- many colorways
- half sizes available
What I Don't Like
- no arch support
Cariuma
A low-profile white sneaker is a staple for wearing with dresses to make your look more casual. This style is available in leather or mixed materials as well as a variety of colors. I, Stephanie Meraz, have had these sneakers for a couple of years now and love how well they’ve held up through countless wears, even molding to my feet for a better fit. For an added eco-friendly bonus, the brand uses sustainably sourced leather and plants two trees for each pair sold. In all honestly, the sustainable sneakers have a ton of nostalgia behind them, taking me back to my childhood when skater shoes like Etnies and DC were all the rage (though these are definitely more elevated and chic). Gone may be my dreams of becoming a pro skateboarder, but viva la shoe!
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13
- Promising Review: "I needed a good walking shoe that was also cute without looking like an athletic shoe. I only wore these once before heading off to Italy. They were so comfortable and [are] very cute. Not one issue at all." — a Cariuma customer
Best Cotton Canvas Sneakers
What I Like
- retro look
- color options
What I Don't Like
- may feel stiff at first
Veja
The style of these sneakers combines retro sensibilities and minimalism for a versatile shoe that can be worn for basically any occasion. "I’ve worn them with everything from jeans to dresses for the past five years," says Rachel Bowie, senior director of special projects and royals, in her review. "Also, around the world. One of my favorite pics ever is a blurry one snapped of me on a Madrid playground with my then 1-year-old in which I’m wearing a floral dress and my Veja sneaks." Some reviewers note the rubber sole makes these low profile sneakers a tad heavy, but the cotton upper is very lightweight and breathable.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 35 to 42
- Promising Review: “These fit great! [I] wore them day in and day out as we were on vacation and did a lot of walking. I do have a bit of a narrow foot, but I still had room in them width-wise. Length was true to size." — an Anthropologei customer
Comfiest Footbed
3. Vivaia Cristina Lace-Up Satin Sneakerina Sneakers
What I Like
- lightweight triple-layered sole
- bendable design is travel-friendly
What I Don't Like
- thin sole
- satin fabric is hard to clean
Vivaia
“I used to say I only wear sneakers on the penalty of death, but NO MORE,” says SEO Editor Marissa Wu, who tells me she’s not one who usually likes to wear sneakers...unless it's this unique style from Vivaia. “I’m not ever grumpy to wear them, in fact...I willingly paired them with a suit this morning.” They boast a similar satin fabric to your favorite ballet flats, and despite their thin and lightweight design, the soles are triple-layered for optimal comfort. “The satin finish makes it feel like you're not wearing shoes—a PLUS if you never wear socks, like me. They have the brand's ultra comfortable footbed, that makes even the ripped up gravel in my construction-ridden neighborhood feel like...a cloud,” Wu adds. The only downside? The satin can dirty easily, especially on lighter colorways. Wu tells me that it’s easy to spot clean minor smudges with a toothbrush and detergent, plus they’re machine-washable.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: "[These are] surprisingly soft and comfortable. They fit perfectly on my narrow feet and look so beautiful. I just need to learn what to do with the length of the front lace. Also hoping they don’t get super dirty on the street." —a Vivaia customer
Best Chunky Sole Sneakers
4. SeaVees Sato Oxford Sneakers
What I Like
- Americana meets Japanese design
- versatile and minimal style
What I Don't Like
- some break-in period
- sizing is inconsistent
SeaVees
Associate Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera attests to the comfort and quality of all the sneakers from SeaVees, but particularly the Sato Oxford style. She says, “Honestly, [the brand's] sneakers are just too good. I love the Sato Oxfords for pairing with sundresses (though they do require just a touch of breaking in at the heels).” A mix of Japanese style and vintage Americana, these cool kicks pay homage to the brand’s original Legend sneakers. The result: exaggerated elements, from the chunky, ribbed footbed to the double layered rubber toecap.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: “Love these vintage sneaks...I may have to get another color in addition to the Brownstone! My normal size is 5.5, but ordered the 6 and exchanged [as they were a] tad loose—good for socks and warm-weather feet swelling. As always, so well made.” — Karen S., a SeaVees customer
Best for Walking
5. Tracksmith Eliot Runner Sneakers
What I Like
- soft and thick Pebax insole absorbs impact
- free returns within 30 days or 100 miles
What I Don't Like
- narrow toe box
Tracksmith
If you prefer a sportier shoe but don’t want to skimp on style, these Tracksmith sneakers are the answer. “This shoe is just everything to me to wear with dresses,” Dana Dickey, senior editor, tells me. “It's streamlined, a little preppy and so neutral—it doesn't jump out at you and instead makes a nice, tasteful base for cotton dresses or even wool skirts with tights in early spring. They kick up (!) childhood memories of the track shoes I'd see the older girls wear with their school uniforms.” Indeed, the Eliot sneakers were designed with runners in mind, offering a soft but responsive build, so you can go about your day feeling nothing but comfort and support.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5.5 to 11
- Promising Review: “These are a great pair of under-the-radar, do-it-all, runners. I especially like that they can do double duty while traveling. They're as great at being running shoes for the morning run as they are being the sneakers I wear with a pair of jeans and t-shirt without needing to bring two pairs of shoes. The support and cushion is just right, the fit is spot on and they just blend in nicely.” — a Tracksmith customer
Best Retro-Inspired Sneakers
6. Adidas Originals Leather Samba OG Sneakers
What I Like
- sporty, low-profile design
- lightweight
What I Don't Like
- runs half a size small
- some break-in period
ASOS
“I’m sure this comes as no surprise to other fellow Sambas fans but, genuinely, I think Adidas Sambas go with any outfit—especially dresses,” gushes Madeline Merinuk, assistant editor of branded content, about the sporty sneaker beloved by Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber. “They add a sporty-chic element to a dress-centered fit, and are just so versatile in design, especially if you get a neutral colorway.” Indeed, while they have some retro sporty edge to them, Sambas almost seem to shapeshift to complement many styles, whether you pair it with flowy frock or satin slip. “They will forever be my go-to with a summer dress,” adds Merinuk.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 14
- Promising Review: “I bought these for my trip to Amsterdam and we walked around 20 thousand steps a day, and my feet were so comfortable. Would highly recommend.” — an ASOS customer
Trendiest Sneakers
7. Onitsuka Tiger Unisex Corsair Shoes
What I Like
- perform like activewear sneaker
- modern Japanese design
What I Don't Like
- sizing can be inconsistent
Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger sneakers have quickly become one of the most sought-after sneakers around the globe, from Japan to London to New York. The Corsair style have a signature sporty look that is unmistakable thanks to the brand’s sleek tiger stripes, plus details that pay homage to its Japanese roots. I'm a sucker for a good low-profile sneaker, so these are a definite yes for styling with a dress.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 4 to 12.5
- Promising Review: “The Onitsuka Tiger is a fantastic and unique pair of sneakers that I have been craving for a while. The quality and the comfort is bar none and the size is just about right. The color and the stiching feels and looks good. They are a bit on the pricier side but they are worth it in my books.” — an Amazon customer
Most Classic Shoes
8. Adidas Grand Court Sneakers
What I Like
- Cloudfoam cushion support
- classic style
What I Don't Like
- not great for high arches
- laces fray easily
Adidas
These classic sneakers are well-known for their three-stripe design and courtside silhouette, and I wear them constantly throughout the summer because they’re incredibly comfortable and go with all of my day dresses. The shoes have the brand’s Cloudfoam cushioning for added support and comfort, so they’re a solid pick if you’re going to be walking all day long. Plus, if the black and white colorway isn’t your favorite, you can choose from the many other colors and patterns that are available, including a taupe-metallic duo.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 4.5 to 11
- Promising Review: "I bought these as a replacement to my well-worn Superstars right before a trip to Portugal and they absolutely feel like an upgrade! Super comfortable, weathering many many hours of walking in rainy weather without any discomfort and really easy to clean off the mud and dirt compared to the Superstars, particularly at the toe." — a DSW customer
Best Low-Ankle Pick
9. M.Gemi The Leather Palestra Due Sneakers
What I Like
- no-squeak rubber soles
- low-rise
What I Don't Like
- may run big
M.Gemi
The leather on these shoes is made for flexibility and comfort and doesn’t crease as badly as a lot of other leather sneakers. Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth wears these constantly through the streets of Manhattan. “I love how they look with dresses because they sit fairly low on my ankles, so they don’t obscure the shape or length of my legs, but the sole is also substantial enough that I don’t feel like I’m wearing slippers,” she says. Hepworth also mentions that the clean look is also a great option to keep on hand if you like to wear prints and colors.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 35 to 42
- Promising Review: “These are not only stylish but super comfortable right out of the box. There is no breaking-in period. This sneaker is so versatile you can dress it up or down. They are also beautifully made.” — an M.Gemi customer
Best Sporty Sneakers
10. Nike Air Force 1 '07 Leather Sneakers
What I Like
- platform bottoms
- padded tongue
What I Don't Like
- laces can get stained
- may feel heavy
Nike
AF1s are a go-to for many people—myself included. The sole has a thick, almost platform-like height, and while that can feel a bit heavy for some, it isn’t bothersome for walking around. In my experience, these shoes are super versatile because of the fact that they're so minimalist. Associate Commerce Strategist Jael Rucker adds, "I love Air Force 1s and replace them whenever they are no longer ‘super white.’ They also have a padded midsole [that allowed me to] wear them to a day-long convention without my feet hurting."
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 14
- Promising Review: "I broke these shoes in on a vacation that entailed a lot of walking. They were stiff at first, but broke in quickly and were comfortable throughout the week-long trip, with the perfect amount of cushioning in the insole and around the ankle." — a Nike customer
Most Sustainable Option
What We Like
- can be worn with or without socks
- SweetFoam midsole
What We Don't Like
- don't come in half sizes
Allbirds
A sustainably made shoe that’s also cute and comfy is a win-win in our book, so it's no wonder LaBarbera has also been loving these Allbirds since the weather’s warmed up. “They're super comfortable and I like that the color is off-white but goes with absolutely everything—plus they're made with plastic-free vegan materials (including organic cotton and bio-based nylon),” she says. The natural rubber sole is cushioned without feeling too heavy or bulky, so they’re light on your feet, too. “I just wish they came in half sizes because a tiny bit of extra space would be nice,” LaBarbera adds.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: "These are cute like a fashion sneaker but perform like a good walking shoe! [These are] my third pair of Allbirds in different styles and I love them all." —an Allbirds customer
Most Fun High-Tops
12. Comme Des Garçons Play x Converse Chuck Taylor Hidden Heart High Tops
What I Like
- vintage style
- high-top silhouette
What I Don't Like
- not great for high arches
Converse
Looking for a vintage set of sneakers that will never go out of style? Converse is the way to go. Instead of getting one of its standard designs, opt for this Comme Des Garçons Play collaboration for something more unique. “I was hesitant at first about pairing high-tops with dresses, from a leg-flattering standpoint, but I just love the casual-cool vibe these add to minis, midis and everything in between,” says Wellness Director Sarah Stiefvater. Note: If you’re someone who has a high instep or bunions, you might not want to wear Converse sneakers for too long because they're quite flat and narrow.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 10
- Promising Review: "Bought this as a birthday gift to my daughter and she loved it! The quality is great and the design is really cute. The sizing seems to be pretty consistent with all converse shoes." — a Bloomingdale’s customer
Best Platform Sneakers
13. Superga 2790 Platform Sneaker
What I Like
- simple silhouette
- high platform
What I Don't Like
- canvas is hard to clean
- run big
Superga
Wanna channel your inner Baby Spice with babydoll dresses this summer? Look no further than these funky platforms. This brand has been seen on Emily Ratajkowski and Kate Middleton many times, and PureWow staffers can attest that they are a must-have. "They don’t require any break-in time and match virtually any style dress, but I tend to wear them most with midis," says Rachel Gulmi, former operations director of branded content at PureWow. The canvas upper sits pretty low on the ankle and the platform bottom adds about 1.75 inches of height.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 9.5
- Promising Review: "These shoes were perfect for my feet. I'm just 5'1" so I need some height without heels. The arch support is slight but they really are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. My foot arches are slight too. I get LOTS of compliments on them. These are my fourth pair, [and I] love the colors and styles." — a Zappos customer
How to Style Sneakers with Dresses
If you haven’t worn sneakers with dresses before or you just don’t know how to style the duo, I've got you. This popular pairing is a great option for summer—especially if you're aiming to give off more of a casual, cool-girl vibe. I love a simple T-shirt dress or a mini dress for a super comfy pick, and Asher agrees, telling me, “[T-shirt dresses] go well with low and high-top sneakers and offer a comfortable and breezy option for those hot sunny days.” Alternatively, she says sneakers are also a great option to dress down a midi or maxi dress. “Pairing these dressier designs with sneakers is the easiest way to work your longer dresses or skirts into your everyday wardrobe,” she continues. It’s much like the wrong shoe theory, in which you intentionally go for the unlikely pairing. For example, you might feel inclined to pair dainty ballet flats with your summer frock, but opting for sporty sneakers will add an unexpected and cool contrast against a feminine or floral dress.
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
More Stories You'll Love
Gabrielle Union’s Tie-Front Monochrome Set Is Going Straight on My Spring Mood Board
The 26 Best Gifts from lululemon, According to Yoga Instructors, Serious Exercise Enthusiasts and PureWow Editors
18 Must-Have Summer Fashion Staples from Amazon The Drop
Ballet Sneakers Are the Latest Evolution of the Flat—Here Are 5 Styles to Shop
10 Petite-Approved Quince Styles, Reviewed by Editors (with Photos)
Psst: A Major Rellery Jewelry Sale Is on to Get Your Mother's Day Gifts Sorted
From Melrose to Abbot Kinney, *This* is the One Thing Every Woman in LA is Wearing Right Now
Run, Don't Walk: PureWow Editors' Favorite Hoka Sneakers Are Secretly on Sale
Aimee Lou Wood Was Spotted in the Coolest Mejuri Hoops (and, Ahem, They're on Sale)
These 12 H&M Spring Picks Deserve a Spot in Your Closet—and Guess What? They're *All* Under $80
20 Long-Sleeve Dresses for Full-Coverage That Won’t Leave You Sweating
I Tested a Bunch of Mejuri's Top-Selling Jewelry—and You Can Score It on *Rare* Sale Now
Are These the Most Comfortable Walking Shoes of All Time?
Petite Women Tell How They Wear Oversized Clothing—Tips, Tricks and What to Buy
These 10 Kate Spade Outlet Deals Are Not to Be Missed, Especially If You're Looking for a Great Mother's Day Gift
Sézane’s Clyde Trench Coat Is the ‘It’ Piece in London—I Reviewed It
