Of all the trends currently dominating the style sphere, we're most grateful for the rise of functional fashion. This movement toward pieces that are both stylish and comfortable has been embraced by fashion girls everywhere, and it's making getting dressed in the morning easier than ever before. Yes, we love dressing to the nines in our least practical heels when we go out—particularly if we know our destination offers valet parking—but our everyday footwear has to get us through extra-long workdays (and across uneven pavement).
Sneakers are clearly our functional shoe style of choice, and runways and street style galleries alike have given us permission to treat our favorite pairs as legitimate fashion items. The sneaker trends we've been seeing around the Who What Wear office lately? Sleek slip-ons, '90s-inspired lace-ups, platform soles, and, of course, Millennial Pink iterations. Since we're all about sharing fashion tips, we asked three of our most stylish co-workers for their picks from the Keds fall collection, and since they're particularly adept at sneaker styling, we got them to share their favorite practical outfits to wear from 9-to-5 (and beyond).
In need of office-outfit inspo? Read on for three outfits you can wear with sneakers and the best fashion-girl tips to get through the workweek in style.
MIMI POSTIGO
Social Media Editor
WHO WHAT WEAR: Describe your style in three words.
MIMI POSTIGO: Cool, trend-driven, tomboyish.
WWW: What's your trick for making sneakers office-appropriate?
MP: Make sure the rest of your look is professional—I pair sneakers with a blazer, and either tailored pants or a midi skirt to look appropriate for work.
WWW: How do you transition your outfit for various activities through the day?
MP: I start with something basic—say, a floral midi dress. Drape a blazer over your shoulders for work, and swap it out for a moto jacket for drinks. Your outerwear (or third piece) can always transform your look. Also, never underestimate the power of a little lipstick!
WWW: Do you tend to dress for fashion or function? Ever sacrificed function for fashion and lived to regret it?
MP: Always fashion over function—I'm guilty. I do love that sneakers (especially this pair!) appear trendy while still being super functional. I've definitely worn the wrong shoes to a few concerts in my day...
WWW: What's another outfit you'd wear these shoes with?
MP: A midi skirt, a white tee, and a cool trench coat. These shoes are honestly so versatile that you can wear them with anything, but I love the contrast of wearing something a little more chic with casual sneakers.
WWW: In what ways do you think fashion is trending toward being more functional?
MP: I think people want to know that their fashion purchases are going to serve them in more ways than one. We ask ourselves, "Can I wear this to work and on the weekends?" We're lucky that the line between the two is starting to blur; it's now easier to shop for pieces you can wear 24/7.
Shop Mimi's Pick:
KELSEY HEARD
Client Services Manager
WHO WHAT WEAR: Describe your style in three words.
KELSEY HEARD: Relaxed, fun, clean.
WWW: What's your trick for making sneakers office-appropriate?
KH: I love to pair sneakers with a dress to ensure I can run to all of my meetings with ease while also looking put together. Also, I stick with this combo because with just two key pieces, it's very easy to put together in the morning.
WWW: How do you transition your outfit for various activities through the day?
KH: I bring layers! I get cold easily at night and in offices, so I always try to dress for the L.A. sunshine but bring a jacket to make sure I'm comfortable and present.
WWW: Do you tend to dress for fashion or function?
KH: I dress for function mostly, but I love to challenge myself to be dressed up whenever possible.
WWW: What's another outfit you'd wear these shoes with?
KH: I'd like to try some suiting separates in '70s plaid!
WWW: In what ways do you think fashion is trending toward being more functional?
KH: For me, being a modern woman means being on the go a lot of the time, and my fashion choices have to work with that.
NATALIA CHAVEZ
Graphic Designer
WHO WHAT WEAR: Describe your style in three words.
NATALIA CHAVEZ: Simplistic, functional, inspired by my grandmother.
WWW: What's your trick for making sneakers office-appropriate?
NC: I pair sneakers with a nice blouse to mix casual and dressy. Oh, and keep them clean!
WWW: What's one trend you're loving for fall?
NC: My wardrobe consists of mostly white, black, and denim, but lately I've been gravitating toward red tones—I want everything in red.
WWW: Do you tend to dress for fashion or function?
NC: Function always! I'm all about feeling comfortable but staying true to my fashion sense.
WWW: What's another outfit you'd wear these shoes with?
NC: Skirts! These are the perfect shoes to elongate your legs thanks to the added platform.
WWW: In what ways do you think fashion is trending toward being more functional?
NC: Sneakers in general are a staple, but I feel like over the past few years they have become very fashionable. Almost any outfit now can be worn with sneakers, and everyone is okay with it.
Shop Natalia's Pick:
Convinced in the power of sneakers? Shop more fashionable and functional styles from Keds.
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