Image via Complex Original
It’s safe to say that at most office jobs (Complex not included, obviously) it’s not a great idea to wear sneakers every day. Your Air Jordan 3s might get nods of appreciation on the weekend or with your friends, but come review time, your casual look might rub your wingtip-wearing boss the wrong way. Blame tradition, stodgy dress codes, or Mad Men, but rules are rules. That said, we’re here to blur the line on what is considered office-appropriate, without ruffling any feathers. Here are 10 sneakers at passed the “dress for the job you want, not the job you have” test. Classic, sleek and on-trend, these sneakers will peg you as a tastemaker, without any fuss from HR.
Puma Suede Classics
Yes, a brightly saturated red such as this is a risk. But it’s also psychologically linked to dominance, empowerment, and achievement (think: Tiger Woods, Daredevil, Kanye in 2010), which could help your image around the office. Stick to the monochromatic Suede Classics for a clean look that’s more trendsetter than skate park.
Nike Air Force 1 Pivot
Keep your office kicks minimal and luxe, choosing rich looking leathers and treatments over anything that looks too flashy or performance-driven. While the white colorway is definitely an attention-seeker, the smooth leather and classic gum sole should balance out any unwanted “wow” factor around the cubicles.
New Balance 1400 Heritage
You might be wary, but if you’re boss is a dad from the East Coast, he probably owns a pair of these. Granted, they are from the early ‘00s and in the traditional grey colorway, but these will serve as a great conversation-starter for the two of you. Tell him his favorite dad shoes are cool and thank us later when you get the promotion.
Adidas Stan Smith
Retro tennis classics silhouettes are practically the wingtips of the sneaker world, so the Stan Smiths are an easy pick for your work wardrobe. Keep it simple with the White/Navy colorway, and when your co-workers ask, “What are thooose?” you can school them with your impressive amount of historical tennis knowledge.
Brooks Running Chariot
Maybe the most casual on our list, the layers of suede make up for the running-style silhouette. Pair this sporty kick with a more buttoned-up look to balance out the athletic vibe.
Nike Air Pegasus Racer
Keep a low profile with a pair of retro runners in a stealth hue. The Sequoia green hue goes well with your go-to chambray shirt for casual Fridays, or black cords for the rest of the week.
Adidas Originals Hamburg
This OG soccer shoe won’t ruffle any feathers in a low-key denim colorway. Thanks to a premium suede upper—originally debuted in ’82—the Hamburg wouldn’t have been allowed through reception then, but in comparison to today’s standout kicks, you’ll be just fine in these.
Common Projects Low-Tops
If you’re feeling the subtle appeal of the now-popular retro tennis kicks but want something with a little more unexpected, look to Common Projects. Yes, the silhouette looks familiar, but the $400+ price tag and elusive gold branding will leave your co-workers asking questions (the positive kind).
Air Jordan I Retro High
If you work in a creative environment of any kind, these are a go-ahead. If you’re in law or medicine or anything that demands a life-or-death seriousness, steer clear until you’re OOO. That said, the first-ever Air Jordans are totally acceptable if you’re climbing the corporate ladder in Silicon Valley. Go with a color way other than the predictable red / black / white to avoid twinning with an office mate.
Adidas Superstar RT
While Adidas did us all a favor this year and rolled out the Superstar in every color of the rainbow, restrain yourself for the 9-to-5. Opt for a neutral hue to balance out the wider silhouette and pair with socks that complement your look.