The sneaker has quite a history. In the late 18th century, people wore rubber-soled shoes called plimsolls. They were raw and did not differentiate between left and right foot. At about 1892, the U.S. Rubber Company came up with more comfortable rubber sneakers with canvas tops. These were called Keds. The keds got the nickname sneakers because they were so quiet, a person wearing them could sneak up on someone. Remember the dialogue between in Black Panther and his sister Shuri - "And when you replace those primitive grilling sandals with ultra-high-tech, stealthy shoes: "Guess what I call them: sneakers."
Unless you have been hibernating, I am sure you have realized that the sneaker has become more than just a gym companion. Today they have become a lifestyle statement and a staple for a man's (and a woman's) wardrobe. Sneakers are everywhere. From lifestyle to the red carpet to a fashion statement, sneakers can be an expression of yourself.
Here's are some rules and how you can add flair and versatility with sneakers:
- Buy sneakers that compliment your current wardrobe: Work your way by adding a pair of sneakers to your existing wardrobe.
- Wear them to the right occasions (don't go too casual): Sneakers are amazingly versatile, but they're no replacement for dress shoes. They are absolute casual wear with relaxed pants, shorts, or suits. However, they're not meant for every occasion (i.e., weddings).
- Keep them fresh: It doesn't matter how cool your sneakers are, the charm of them is gone when they're not in pristine condition. Decorous sneaker maintenance includes washing the laces, eliminating odors, wiping the outsoles, and using shoe trees and sneaker shields.
Understanding Sneakers and other Trainers
Sneakers have come a long way and have become tremendously versatile. From the minimal to the designer, it's a challenge to know what's most likely to suit your wardrobe and taste.
Fortunately, we can make things a bit easy for you. We've put together a Know your Sneakers guide to getting you going:
- Essential Sneakers – These are your traditional Converse, Vans, etc., types. Sometimes they come in leather, but they're typically found in canvas and primary colors. On the whole, they're generally affordable and easy to wear/maintain.
- Refined Luxury Sneakers – They might bear a resemblance to the essential sneakers. However, they're more expensive and often made from suede or leather by brands like Tom Ford, Lanvin, Saint Laurent * King's. These are not something you take to a music festival.
- Traditional Sports Sneakers – Think Nike Air Max 90, Asics, Tiger, and other forms of old school sports greatness.
- Current Sports Sneakers – Again, these are your Nike, Adidas, and Puma brands, but with modern styling and shapes.
- High-fashion Sneakers – These are the work of brands like Givenchy, Christian Louboutin, Maison Martin Margiela, Diemme and even Giuseppe Zanotti. They're loud and intended to grab attention.
- High Tech – This particular group may not be universally recognized yet, but in the underground, it's known as "High Tech." This category for the likes of Rick Owens and similar designers who are driving the limits of sneaker design.
I will focus my attention on the Luxury Refined Sneakers as we have just introduced this line in our Ready to Wear collection and also provide a whole of choices in the SHOE STUDIO section.
These excellent exemplars have allowed sneakers to jump from street casual to smart casual without looking like they belong on teenagers. They look spectacular with tailored trousers, slim denim, chinos and in some cases even relaxed, unstructured suiting.
Keep it refined on top to match the shoe. Basic tees, slim-fit shirts, and polos are all great choices. For a more distinct look, opt for a shirt with a slim tie, a blazer, and some slim denim.
- Dress up without guilt
- Start with white, then get other colors like tans, blues or the burgundy's
- Try to make sneakers with Fabric and Leather combination. The look is unbeatable.
- Make your Patina sneaker to take your sneaker game to the next level.
Thank you and Good Luck - Nilesh
Don't wish it was easier, wish you were better - Jim Rohn
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