In a year that has undoubtedly streamlined my style to focus on timeless basics that will work for nearly every occasion, black sneakers have made it to my top five wardrobe must-haves. Yes, right up there with my classic white T-shirts and vintage-inspired denim, there they are.
Don’t get me wrong. I love a major sneaker trend, too—especially when the number of styles out there is virtually endless. That said, when I need comfortable shoes to slip on at a moment’s notice, tried-and-true black sneakers are it for me.
Whether it’s a simple pair of lace-ups with my go-to fashion uniform, buzzy Adidas Sambas, or a space-age slip-on pair for my athleisure looks, you can catch me wearing these on any given day. But even with my mental Rolodex of looks, I get a bit of sartorial fatigue. And in the process of searching for new ensembles to add to the catalog, I zeroed in on twenty of the best black sneakers the internet has to offer.
Keep scrolling to see them all with additional outfit inspiration to get your wheels turning.
Style Notes: White sneakers might be your first instinct with an athleisure look, but take this Bella Hadid outfit as proof that black sneakers can be just as cool for the gym. Double down on the color contrast with black and white layered tanks for a ’90s spin.
Style Notes: Black sneakers work just as well with your casual jeans-and-a-tee look as white sneakers do. So this is your sign not to overlook the black versions of the season’s It pairs.
Style Notes: We love the idea of wearing black tonal sneakers with a sleek daytime ensemble that could easily be worn at night.
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to wear your tailored trousers for more casual occasions is by pairing them with simple black sneakers.
Style Notes: One unique and unexpected ensemble is the combination bright colors like purple and orange. An of-the-moment pair of Sambas won’t hurt, either.
Style Notes: If you want to give your ultra-polished look a touch of downtown edge, swap out your shoes for some sporty slip-on sneakers instead.
Style Notes: Let’s be real: a white tank and jeans is our summer uniform. A pair of retro black sneakers is just the hint of trendiness it needed.
