As a commuter and fashion editor, my must-haves in a pair of work sneakers are style and comfort. The perfect sneakers must turn heads even when I'm strutting down the busiest of streets. They must have the light bounce of what I imagine feels like walking on a cloud. And they must pair flawlessly with everything from stacked trousers to tailored dresses to flowy skirts. How do I find these near-mythical sneakers? Well, lucky you—I implemented a very scientific approach. I conducted field research, observed NYC's foot traffic, browsed endlessly online, and consulted fellow fashion editors to find the best work sneakers.
I asked our chic editors to send me their favorite work sneakers, and they returned with five fabulous styles that met my criteria—sporty-chic, taekwondo-inspired Adidas trainers, edgy mesh Mary Janes, sleek suede Miu Miu sneakers, and more. I've also included my top three office-appropriate styles.
Below, read my office-sneaker report in its entirety—from our editors' favorite work sneakers to 17 other chic options on the market that will upgrade your sneaker game.
My Picks
Josephine Hadjiloucas, Assistant Shopping Editor
Laceless with a sleek, low-profile silhouette, these martial arts–inspired trainers are my absolute dream. The cream base and deep blue complement each other for a soft, rich look. They are practical with a chic, sporty design.
I can easily see myself wearing these lightweight leather sneakers on the subway heading to work. I'd style them with a cute pair of dark-wash jeans and a classic white tee and let these gorgeous suede trainers do all the talking.
These Puma Speedcats are special. Their narrow toe and suede finish create a soft, inviting silhouette. They're a faded baby blue with a solid white stripe on the side, and if I were a pair of sneakers, I'd be these.
Editors' Picks
Jennifer Camp Forbes, Senior Shopping Editor
"I'm so fortunate to work in a creative industry, which gives me the ability to wear fashion-forward pieces year-round. Right now, I have my sights set on this fresh sneaker style from Adidas. I'd wear them with everything from trousers to dresses to skirts."
Audry Hiaoui, Associate Shopping Editor
"I don't typically wear traditional sneakers aside from my Salomons at the gym, but I do love Mary Jane sneakers, and the ballet-sneaker trend has won me over. The Prada Sport and Miu Miu versions are my dream, but Zara has an affordable option. I like that they're made with cotton since I've been looking for a pair that's breathable to wear in the NYC heat this summer. They feel more elevated than regular sneakers but just as comfortable."
Nikki Chwatt, Associate Fashion Editor
"I'm not really a sneaker person, but if I were to wear a pair to the office, it would be the Plume style by Miu Miu. I love the sleek, retro-inspired silhouette and minimalist design, which add to their cool factor. While they come in several different colors, I prefer the navy because it looks the richest, especially when paired with black wide-leg trousers."
Allyson Payer, Senior Editor
"These are my go-to trendy-but-not sneakers. They're retro but still elegant, and they can dress an outfit up or down depending on what you're wearing. I've admittedly purchased them in several colors—it's a problem. I wouldn't hesitate to wear them to the office and think they'd look especially cool with a relaxed blazer and trousers."
Anna LaPlaca, Senior Editor
"Trust me—these sneakers look and feel so expensive in person. The slim profile and suede finish look especially forward, making them an elevated pick for the office that I'd style with jeans and trousers."
More Stylish Sneakers
Shop the Sneakers
The collab I never want to end.
The mesh detailing offers breathable comfort so you can wear these retro-chic sneakers all day long.
These forest-green sneakers are clean and chic.
Vince has entered the conversation. These runners will take you from work to the weekend in style.
A metallic lover's fantasy.
A simple yet flattering profile.
Suede + mesh + leather = dream shoes
A retro-chic color palette that feels nostalgic in all the right ways.
A little twist on the OG Sambas.
A solid and simple choice made with quality leather.
Zara has some pretty good sneakers.
This color combo is spectacular and so chic.
These are perfect for a hot summer day. Slip them on and you're out the door.
The perfect all-black trainers. Neat and narrow.
This play with texture in such a beautiful style. Not to mention, the suede finish is divine.
You can never go wrong with a pair of Converse. It's the leather jacket of sneakers—a classic.
These are currently in my closet. They're great work-to-gym sneakers to own.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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