Style Hack: Why Fitting Into Women's Footwear Is Something to Envy
Style Hack is Highsnobiety’s weekly column set to clear the confusion around some of fashion’s biggest conundrums. So, if you’re looking to wear sneakers to a wedding, or need help styling a bolo tie, you’ve come to the right place. For the first edition of our series, we run the rule over some of the best women’s footwear silhouettes for men.
If you’ve got big feet, the likelihood of you being infuriated by the waves of incredible women’s sneakers is worryingly high. And if like me, you haven’t got big feet, you're probably scared off by the idea of wearing women’s sneakers, which is an idea we need to quash right here, right now. Not being restricted by gendered shopping means a host of colorways and silhouettes that your peers might not otherwise have access to suddenly become all yours.
So — foot size warranting — if you're open to the idea but not sure how to go about it, we are here to help. As our product curator Noah Thomas weighs up wearing women’s footwear, we begin to see that it really isn’t that deep. With nothing to lose, and perhaps a lot to gain, expanding your footwear horizons means you can begin setting your sneaker rotation apart from the rest.
Check out our list of the best women’s sneakers, shoes, and slides for men below.
Nike Shox TL Sneakers
Women have fought long and hard to make sure sneaker companies do a better job with the colorways they get for their shoes. For the most part, they just want the same colorways the guys get, and rightfully so. These suggest they're getting better ones.
Flat Apartment
If you can fit into these then lucky you. Flat Apartment makes such beautiful silhouettes that look like no other shoes on the market. These would go so well with a cropped flare pant or classic grey sweats.
Proenza Schouler Derby
This is one of those shoes that could very well be sold to both parties. The minute most guys find out they don’t come in men's sizes, it’s pretty funny. The chunkiness of this shoe adds a lot of depth to a look. These would go great with some classic blue Levi’s and a solid black tee.
Marni Canvas Trainers
Marni is known for playing with shapes, and those shapes can work for anyone who is willing to give them a go. Harry Styles recently wore some Mary Janes on the Brit Award red carpet, should you need some inspo.
Reebok DMX Thrill
These are sleek and perfect for walking. These are so nylon tracksuit friendly.
Balenciaga Croc Mules
I would wear these with baggy pants and a cropped denim jacket. Play with proportions and give off an Olsen twin vibe. Not the first mules I’ve taken from the women's side.
Isabel Marant Sneakers
The red and blue mixed with off white gives these sneakers a vintage basketball feel, and with All-Star Weekend still on the mind, these are a nice fit for now.
adidas Taekwondo Shoes
Taekwondo shoes have not yet gotten their moment yet, but this is how you jump on early. They're comfortable, versatile, and cool for the house or casual hangouts.
Saucony DXN Sneakers
Saucony's are super evergreen and easy-to-wear. This is one of those situations where they didn't make the colorway for men. So go pick up the women's versions, because the palette is better.
Y-3 Slides
These platform slides are an easy way to ease into new footwear territory. These are great for visualizing a look, especially if the rest of your outfit is pretty dressed up. Make sure your socks are strong, though. Women get more platform slide options and I take advantage.
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