How to Match Clothes & Sneakers for Men

Sneakers can be incorporated into a variety of ensembles.

Today's fashionable sneakers compliment a wide range of clothing styles. Everything from preppy and professional apparel to casual and trendy gear looks good with sneakers. While traditional athletic shoes go best with sporty apparel, there are a host of casual sneakers that pair perfectly with all kinds of wardrobe essentials. The key to successful sneaker wearing is making sure the color and style blends with -- not matches -- whatever outfit you have on. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assess your dressier clothes. The savvy man can get away with sneakers and a suit, but the key to unlocking this fashion-forward trend lies within the suit style. Choose a slim suit or one that is loose and easy. The sneakers should be muted -- gray, white or black work best. Or, wear a pair of dress slacks, roll up the sleeves on your favorite Oxford and add a bow tie for distinction. Pair this academic look with a slim-fitting sneaker sans socks.

2. Think about your lifestyle. If you regularly go from school to skate park, you'll want a sneaker that is not only comfortable, but that can withstand your sporting activities. Sneakers with arch support and a thick sole pair well with apparel such as hoodies and athletic-type shorts and T-shirts. When work takes center stage, put yourself in the limelight with business-casual attire, such as khaki pants and a vest, that blends nicely with a pair of thin-soled, lace-up or slip-on sneakers.

3. Consider color in your sneakers. There's no reason sneakers have to be white or black. Colorful hues are everywhere and pair nicely with casual clothes ranging from dark denim and plaid shirts to tailored shorts and a fitted polo shirt. In addition, a racer-type sneaker that features stripes on the side adds an additional sporty feel. High-top sneakers in tangerine, charcoal, navy and green add a refreshing twist to cargo shorts and a pocket T-shirt.

4. Embrace studs, spikes and patterns on your sneakers. Shoes are simply another accessory -- much like a watch, fedora or scarf. Put on a traditional outfit, such as chino pants and a cardigan, and make it interesting with sneakers that feature embellishments. In addition, wild-patterned, colorful and different textured laces add a touch of whimsy to your understated sneakers. It's important not to match your laces and outfit. Your best bet is to choose colors that compliment each other in the same color hues.

References

• GQ: The GQ Guide to Shoes
• Christian Louboutin: Louis Spikes Men's Flat
• Esquire: Casual Shoes -- A User's Guide