Go from casual to cocktails in a pair of dress sneakers

2023-11-13

They'll dress up your casual pieces, dress down a formal look. They're ready for just about any occasion, with a touch of premium attitude. Dress sneakers have become a central part of the discerning men's wardrobe in recent years.

What makes a dress sneaker?
In a word: quality. Your dress sneakers are in part defined by what they're not: high street sports brands are best kept in the closet or at the gym when it comes to sneakers suitable for both casual and for cocktails. That, in short, is the aim: sneakers that will dress up your favourite worn-out jeans for Saturday strolling to the coffee shop and dress down a suit when you're out at that Michelin-starred restaurant.

So, what to look for? Handmade is just about essential and high-end leathers or vegan options - either smooth or in suede - are a must-have. You'll be wanting a quality outsole too - with leather lining another luxury option. Monochrome is a safe bet, and don’t ignore other colourways that suit your personal style.

When it comes to silhouette: minimal is good, and a vintage sports look can work too, particularly given these are the nearest you're likely to be get, beyond commissioning them yourself, to couture sneakers. Guaranteed quality adds to the versatility of dress sneakers. Beyond the sneaker look, this is high-end footwear made to last. And last. The patina of age will simply add to their appeal.

Seasonless style is key in choosing your next pair of dress sneakers, pieces that are "free from the decrees of fashion and the passage of time" - makes this label the ideal choice. All pairs of sneakers in deliberately limited range - minimalist low and high top, lined and unlined - are proudly using calfskin in smooth and suede variants. Rubber soles complete an essential.