The 15 Best White Sneakers to Wear With Dresses and How to Style Them
Olivia Cigliano
Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Updated August 14, 2024: This article on the best white sneakers to wear with dresses was updated with Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time selections and additional reviews after a third round of shoe testing by Footwear News Shop editors. We are currently testing additional women’s white sneakers from brands like Alo Yoga and New Balance for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
Dresses are a one-and-done outfit solution for the utmost ease and comfort, so the shoes you team it with should be on the same page, too. Dress-appropriate footwear can vary by the season — from summer sandals to fall boots — however, the versatility and functionality of white sneakers for women make them a perennial staple you can wear no matter the weather. The best white sneakers to wear with dresses are anything but basic, as they can instantly elevate any hem in luxe, retro, or sporty style appeal. With fall on the horizon, it’s a great time to refresh your well-loved rotation with a clean new pair of kicks.
In fact, fall 2024 footwear trends are leaning into high-quality, timeless styles that refresh and elevate your existing wardrobe, rather than fleeting shoe trends that won’t stand the test of time. Comfortable footwear alone has been the most coveted shoe category since the pandemic, where even office-appropriate dress has relaxed to embrace casual trainers with elevated dresses. Today, white sneakers to wear with dresses tick all the boxes from all-day comfort to clean-cut style appeal, and they make for a worthy swap for traditional dress shoes like loafers or flats.
Watch on FN
The best white sneakers to wear with dresses not only provide cushioning and stability but also infuse fresh attitude into your look. The TikTok-viral “wrong shoe theory” champions that exact sentiment, as it encourages shoe choices that juxtapose other components of your outfit. Think: A colorful slip dress with timeless Nike Air Force 1 basketball shoes for date night or Adidas Samba soccer shoes — one of the most popular shoes to pair with dresses in 2024 — with a denim dress for a day at the office.
After all, white is the most neutral sneaker colorway money can buy, as it fits right in with any outfit palette, be it a wash of neutrals or a rainbow’s worth of color. Whether positioned as a statement or a sidekick, white sneakers are shoes that go with everything, and they hold the power to pare down a look or kick it up a notch. Chunky platform sneakers evoke nostalgic Y2K vibes akin to Bratz dolls and The Spice Girls when paired with a mini dress, while Converse Chuck Taylor’s bring a more undone, casual element to daily dressing. Minimalist and luxe-looking white leather sneakers can also replace the typical loafer or women’s dress shoe alongside a polished shirt dress for fall.
There are many things to consider when shopping for the best white sneakers to wear with dresses, so we created this guide with expert tips and product picks to find the best one for your needs. From white travel sneakers that are versatile and easy to pack to white chunky sneakers that make a head-turning statement — we cover it all. Read on for our curation of the best white sneakers to wear with dresses, plus fall outfit inspiration and honest editor-testing reviews.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Sneakers to Wear With Dresses
Almost every sneaker on the market comes in a white colorway, but they don’t all look good beyond athletic settings, and even fewer can elevate the style appeal of a dress. The best white sneakers to wear with dresses represent many different types of shoes. There are different materials like leather, mesh, and canvas, as well as a range of silhouettes that invite a unique attitude, like platform soles or high-top sneakers.
Our editors have curated our top three best white sneakers to wear with dresses after three rounds of comprehensive testing. Our top white sneakers to wear with dresses not only elevate ensembles but also deliver major durability and support. Below, we’ve evaluated each sneaker based on our key criteria, including versatility, trend appeal, essential comfort, and long-term durability.
Our top three picks for the best white sneakers to wear with dresses are also honorees in the recent Footwear News Greatest Shoes of All Time list. That ranking reflects the opinions of a diverse panel of editors and industry experts, plus data and metrics that measure the historical significance and current trend appeal of the sneakers.
- Nike Air Force 1 Shoes: Consider these the best white leather sneakers to wear with dresses. Sporty basketball appeal fuses with fashion in the legendary Air Force 1 sneaker. The luxe-looking sneaker comes framed in pure white leather, with a slightly stacked platform midsole for added height, while the low cut allows room to play with stylish socks or leave the ankles bare. The extra inches at the midsole make up for those heels you’ve thrown to the wayside, while grippy rubber soles can hold up on all kinds of terrain, be it the park or city sidewalks. Plus, all-around plush padding cushions every zone of the foot for long days on your feet.
- Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes: Chuck Taylor is a decades-old household sneaker name, and when it comes to styling sneakers with dresses, these are a foolproof pick. For those of us who struggle with keeping white fabrics clean, these affordable white shoes to wear with dresses are made to get dirty — cult fans of Converse high-top sneakers celebrate the lived-in look. Their breathable canvas uppers are tough enough to brave mud like a badge of honor, while also being easily machine washable, and their high-top silhouette seamlessly flatters the leg, whether you opt for a mini, midi, or maxi hem.
- Adidas Samba OG Shoes: Everyone and their mother seems to be wearing Adidas Samba shoes, but this trend isn’t fleeting. Samba shoes are a mainstay in celebrity street style, as their low-profile design doesn’t distract from the dress you wear them with. Rather, they read as a sporty-chic accent that’s particularly on point with today’s minimalist trends. The Samba shoe has built a reputation as one of the most fashionable white Adidas sneakers of all time, making it an ideal option to wear with dresses, as it’s expected to maintain its status as one of the most coveted shoes well into the fall.
Size range: 5 to 12
Material: Rubber sole, leather upper
Celebrity fans of the brand: Emma Roberts, Blake Lively, Sofia Richie, Khloe Kardashian, Madison Beer, Olivia Wilde, Jennifer Lawrence, and more
Thanks to rappers like Nelly (who waxes poetically about the shoe in the song “Air Force Ones”), the sneaker has since been the subject of numerous designer collaborations and now has a forever home in the closets of celebs like Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, and Sofia Richie. Their bright uppers, crisp seaming, and bold — not bulky — profile allow them to play as a chameleon, whether paired with soft and flowy dresses or as textural contrast to denim or linen dresses. These top white sneakers to wear with dresses also bode well for athleisure ensembles, like a trendy tennis dress.
What testers say: “I’ll admit that I bought these because they are a super popular style. What I didn’t expect was the comfort and the fit of these shoes. I wore them 2 to 3 times and I would say they were good to wear. I can wear these all day at work and come home and my feet aren’t in pain. I like the height boost they give me. The white pairs so well with my outfits and makes other pieces in my collection pop. I will buy more AF1s in the future.”
Versatility: 4.9/5 rating | Comfort: 4.9/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $115
Nike Air Force 1 Sneakers and Dress Outfit Idea
Shown with: J.Crew Amelia Shirtdress ($138), Bombas Lightweight Bow Quarter Socks ($18), Freja New York Mini Chrystie Pistachio Shoulder Bag ($268), Mejuri Charlotte Bold Hoops ($98)
Size range: 5 to 18
Material: Canvas
Celebrity fans of the brand: Gigi Hadid, Dakota Fanning, Kristen Stewart, Vanessa Hudgens, Beyonce, Lucy Hale, Emma Roberts, Lady Gaga, Minka Kelly, Ashley Roberts, and more
Special features: Medial eyelets enhance airflow
According to style analyst @databutmakeitfashion, Converse shoes saw a 55 percent spike in popularity this summer alone, proving that a classic never goes out of style. This high-top design makes a great option for balancing proportions with mini dresses that show a little extra leg, like a mini shirt dress, or a little nothing dress.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve kept these babies in my sneaker rotation for well over a decade because it would simply be incomplete without them. I love that they can play edgy, feminine, or sporty depending how you style them and, unlike other white sneaker options, the dirtier these get, the better! Their converse construction makes them far from precious, so you can rough them up at a music festival to earn that quintessential lived-in look, and then toss them in the washing machine when you’re ready for a refresh. The narrow footbed, however, may not be best for especially wide feet, and if you’re in need of more underfoot support, I recommend slipping in an arch support insole or cushioned Bombas socks.”
What testers say: “Great shoes! They work with basically any outfit. I’ve had a pair for years that I’m convinced are nearly indestructible!”
Versatility: 4.8/5 rating | Comfort: 4.7/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $65
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes and Dress Outfit Idea
Shown with: Abercrombie Denim Shift Mini Dress ($80), Le Specs Glitch Sunglasses ($95), Coach Soft Tabby Shoulder Bag ($450)
Size range: 5 to 15
Material: Full grain leather upper with gritty suede and gold foil details, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Jennifer Lawrence, Rihanna, Gal Gadot, Kaia Gerber, Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Olivia Wilde, Emma Roberts, and more
Sambas are inherently timeless, thanks to their streamlined silhouette and luxe leather and suede uppers that allow them to play more chic than sporty. Gum soles add a casual vintage vibe. Their low-cut collars also allow room for styling with frilly crew socks and longer maxi hems, while a white, black, and gray palette makes them easy to pair with both wardrobe basics and bold pieces.
Editor testing and review notes: “Adidas Sambas have a light amount of cushioning that’s just enough for me to wear them on everyday walks. The outsole traction is a huge selling point for city slickers, as the rubber sole keeps you steady on slick sidewalks after rain or down steep stairs to subway platforms. And of course, you can’t beat the look of the Adidas walking shoes — they’re best-sellers for a reason.”
Versatility: 5/5 rating | Comfort: 4.8/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
adidas Samba OG Shoes and Dress Outfit Idea
Shown with: Wilfred Brielle Dress ($110), Bombas Women’s Lightweight No Show Socks ($13), Gucci Jackie Small Shoulder Bag ($3,300)
Material: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Emily Ratajkowski, Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, Camila Morrone, Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, and more
Special features: Comfortable molded sockliner
According to Reebok, more than 5 million pairs of Club C 85 shoes are purchased yearly, with styling videos and reviews amassing over 30 million views on TikTok. “Club C strikes the ideal harmony between style and practicality,” said Reebok’s head of product Portia Blunt. “In a market filled with fleeting trends, Club C remains steadfast in its simplicity.”
What testers say: “I can’t recommend these enough. They’re incredibly comfy — we’re talking zero period of stiff leather, ankles blistering, general discomfort — and I wore them all day long, straight out of the box with no issues. I purchased a 9.5 (I’m a 9.5 in Vans and Nike) and felt these were true to size. They look great with shorts or skirts.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $74.99
Materials: Canvas, rubber
Celebrity fans of the brand: Emily Ratajkowski, Demi Lovato, Suki Waterhouse, Kate Hudson
Special features: Waffle outsole, wide footbed
What testers say: “I wear these nearly every day casually and for work. I’m on my feet 10-12 hours with no foot fatigue. These shoes look and feel great!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55
Materials: Leather, suede, cotton, and rubber
Celebrity fans of the brand: Beyoncé, Hilary Duff, Jessica Chastain, Kate Hudson, Taylor Hill, and more
Special features: Padded collar
Price upon publish date of this article: $565
Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kristen Stewart, Millie Bobby Brown, Rachel McAdams, Emily Ratajkowski, Taylor Swift, and more
If you’re wondering how the white shoe pairs with dresses, look back to A.L.C.’s pre-fall ’16 collection. Whether shown with a long brown ribbed tank dress or a white crochet frock, this white leather sneaker complements every silhouette.
Editor testing and review notes: “I have an affinity for retro-inspired sneakers that play well with my mainly vintage-sourced wardrobe that contains a lot of color, so these white steppers were right up my alley. My sister wears her white and black leather Cortez sneakers on the daily, so I decided to take the plunge on a pair — and I’m so happy I did. The spongey midsole and wedge insert feels plush and lightweight underfoot, and the softly structured uppers feel flexible atop my mild bunions and flat feet. The narrow footbed may not be ideal wide foot types, but the reworked, roomier toe box still lends plenty of wiggle room.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Materials: Leather, rubber, mesh
Celebrity fans of the brand:
Special features: EVA sole, cushion sockliner
“The original Jazz, first launched in 1981, symbolized Saucony’s heritage and dedication to innovation and understated style,” Saucony’s chief product officer Brian Moore told Footwear News. “This made it the perfect crossover into lifestyle footwear, and it continues to embody Saucony’s core values of innovation, culture and heritage.” Saucony’s Jazz shoes were such a hit in the 1980s that the brand could barely keep up with the demand, prompting them to expand the line to include updated interactions like the Jazz Triple, a thicker-soled platform sneaker that melds timeless design with today’s trends.
What testers say: “These are my absolute go-to shoes. I can wear them all day and my feet feel supported. I’m short at 5’2, so the Triple is even better for more lift. “
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Materials: Suede, rubber
Celebrity fans of the brand: Rihanna, Emily Ratajkowski, Dua Lipa, Selena Gomez, Cara Delevigne
Special features: Extra large tongue and laces, mesh insole, platform sole
What testers say: “These look so fresh and feel so comfortable. They’re definitely my favorite Puma shoes to date!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Materials: Leather, rubber
Celebrity fans of the brand: Karlie Kloss, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Natalie Portman, Reese Witherspoon, and more
Special features: Rubber cupsole, Ortholite sockliner
“When you can bring together the world of sports, fashion and streetwear, you have an iconic shoe,” Eric “Shake” James, owner of Clicks, Sneex, and Black Market told Footwear News. “That’s what the Stan Smith is. It’s a very wearable shoe and easy to match outfits with.
What testers say: “The Stan Smith is the ultimate all-white classic trainer. I’m on my sixth pair — they go with everything and suit every occasion. Clean and classic.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Billie Eilesh, Blake Lively, Kaia Gerber, Adele, Hailey Bieber, and more
Price upon publish date of this article: $980
Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Emily Ratajkowski, Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, and more
Special features: SensiFit construction, Advanced Chassis cushioning, EndoFit support
Editor testing and review notes: “I’m obsessed with my Salomon XT-6 sneakers. They look cool with everything from mini dresses and maxi dresses, and they keep my feet comfortable. The shoes are incredibly stable, boasting a downhill chassis that cradles my feet with each step. The traction is great, and I love how I can feel the ground beneath me in a responsive yet cushioned way. Plus, the Quicklace system allows me to pull them on in seconds.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $200
Material: Rubber sole, mesh upper
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kristen Bell, Kylie Jenner, Kerry Washington, Mila Kunis, Cameron Diaz, Kris Jenner, Reese Witherspoon, and more
What testers say: “Was having pain in my ankles related to plantar fasciitis. Thanks to amazon and this shoe, I was able to use compression wraps and upgrade my sneakers to Hoka and now I’m running in comfort!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $164.95
Materials: Polyester, nylon, and cotton with leather and topstitch trim, rubber outsole
Special features: All webbing is 100% recycled nylon, 100% recycled polyester, and 100% recycled cotton
Celebrity fans of the brand: Katie Holmes, Olivia Wilde, Camila Cabello, Meghan Markle, Lucy Boynton, and more
These designer white sneakers to wear with dresses have been seen on Jennifer Garner, Demi Moore, and Katie Holmes — the latter of whom has been seen in at least two different colorways of the shoe, often paired with short hems in her off-duty ensembles. Take a note from Holmes and pair these white sneakers with a crochet dress and a matching cardigan when strolling the streets of New York City.
What testers say: “Love it. Good support, super comfortable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $850
Materials: Amazonian rubber, rice waste, recycled polyester, and recycled rubber
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, Reese Witherspoon, Katie Holmes, and more
Special features: Brushed suede, water-repellent coating
Editor testing and review notes: “Whenever I’m unsure of what shoe to wear with a dress in the summer, I fall back to Veja’s Esplar sneakers. They’re simple yet comfortable and lend a model-off-duty feel to my look. Plus, I love that the sneakers are made of organic cotton, wild rubber from the Amazon, ecological leather, and recycled plastic bottles.”
What testers say: “I’ve been looking for the perfect white sneaker for a while and this Veja sneaker nails it. Great with jeans, great with a T-shirt dress. Several compliments with jean shorts and a T-shirt. Fit is true to size, and I’ve worked with and without socks. Highly recommend!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
The Different Types of White Sneakers to Wear With Dresses
Low-Top Sneakers With Dresses
White low-top sneakers are versatile and luxurious styles everyone needs in their wardrobe. The freshness of these white low-top sneakers looks great against a statement dress, as they don’t take away from the main event or draw the eye immediately to the base of the outfit.
White low-top sneakers traditionally come in leather and canvas versions, and you can’t go wrong with either. The slimline silhouette works perfectly with sharp tailoring and casual looks and is ideal for those who prefer a more low-key look in footwear. On the other hand, white low-top canvas sneakers, like Keds, which were the first mass-marketed white canvas-top sneakers in 1916, are a minimalist pair with a textured flair. They’re a style you can’t go wrong with because they’re comfortable, lightweight, and affordable. Plus, they look just as good clean as worn-in.
White Retro Sneakers With Dresses
These silhouettes feature sleek and slim designs that work perfectly with sharp tailoring and casual looks and are ideal for those who prefer a more low-key look. Look to the New Balance 327s, Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars, and Adidas Sambas, all of which transformed from athletic sneakers to staples in every fashion insider’s wardrobe. Whether they accessorize body-hugging dresses or voluminous pieces, these styles make a statement without feeling overly trendy.
White Workout Sneakers With Dresses
White athletic sneakers don’t need to be resigned to workout sessions only. In fact, these ergonomic, comfortable styles are perfect for everyday wear. Look to the tried-and-true sportswear giants like Nike, On, Salomon, and Adidas, who are unparalleled in producing the ideal athletic white sneakers. Salomon white XT-6 sneakers, a trail shoe that has now become a fashion shoe, help shoppers nail the Gorpcore aesthetic, while true sneakerheads may prefer to add Adidas’ Ultraboost Light trainers to their footwear rotation for a more futuristic feel.
White High-Top Sneakers With Dresses
White high-top sneakers have a real retro appeal, but that doesn’t mean you’ll struggle to pair them with a dress. First, decide what you’re looking for in a high-top sneaker. For example, a high-top leather sneaker makes a great investment since the fabric holds up longer and increases in comfort with time. Plus, leather gives a sleek, polished look and is easy to clean. For a more casual look, you can’t go wrong with high-top canvas white sneakers, which are usually more affordable. Whether you choose white leather high tops from Veja or white canvas high tops from Converse, this high-top silhouette pairs best with mini dresses to play with contrast and dress down the look.
White Platform Sneakers With Dresses
White platform shoes’ bold profiles and thick soles help to juxtapose slinky strapping or short hems on your go-to dresses, while you also can enjoy far more underfoot cushioning that wouldn’t otherwise come from a typical sneaker. Many cult-favorite white sneakers come in platform iterations, including the newest Adidas Samba — the Sambae — while other distinct platform models bring an edgy, Y2K attitude for day-to-night ensembles.
White Canvas Sneakers With Dresses
Canvas sneakers will be your best friend during the summer. Consider it the footwear equivalent to linen dresses, with natural breathability and organic texture. Whether you choose a high-top or low-profile canvas sneaker, they’re especially easy to clean after a muddy music festival or dance in the rain, and their flexible uppers offer plenty of wiggle room for playful sock layering or wide feet.
White Suede Sneakers With Dresses
Suede sneakers are luxurious and offer a distinct vintage-looking texture, but they also serve as a softer upper alternative to crisp leather. Suede is more flexible, which is great for wide feet, hammertoes, or any other foot type that may require more give in a walking shoe. However, suede doesn’t play well in rain or snow, so keep that in mind before you slip on your kicks.
How to Clean White Sneakers
In all honesty, cleaning your white sneakers is entirely optional. While there’s nothing more satisfying than pristine, bright white leather or canvas, sneakerheads often revere the lived-in look, because it’s proof the shoe has been well-loved (and has loved you back). However, if you prefer a spotless sneaker or need a refresh before styling your white kicks with an elevated dress for a special occasion, there are super simple ways to get your white sneakers looking like new. Below, different methods for cleaning white sneakers:
- How to clean white leather sneakers: To remove dirt and grime from white leather sneakers, you’ll only need some clear soap and water. Using a wet toothbrush or cloth, gently buff dirty spots away in a circular motion, avoiding laces or other delicate elements. Then, wipe away any excess soap with a damp cloth and thoroughly dry the leather with a dry towel.
- How to clean canvas: If your canvas sneakers are not machine-washable shoes, you can still easily clean them at home. First, remove the laces from your white canvas sneakers. Then, using a dry comb or toothbrush, brush loose dirt off the entirety of the shoe, from the uppers to the soles and everywhere in between. Create a cleaning solution by mixing two tablespoons of vinegar with a tablespoon of baking soda, then dilute the mixture with one cup of warm water. This should create a paste. Dip a washcloth or toothbrush into the mixture and scrub the shoes with gentle, circular motions. After your shoes are clean, allow them to air dry.
- How to clean vegan and plant-based leather: Unlike natural leather, vegan or faux leather does not have any pores, meaning no water will seep through it. So to clean your white vegan leather sneakers, take a damp cloth dipped in soapy water and wipe them. Then make sure they air dry for at least one day before you step into them again.
- How to clean white suede sneakers: Using suede cleaner, white vinegar, or rubbing alcohol, wet one corner of a clean cloth. Dab and message spots using gentle side-to-side motions to loosen up dirt. Then, allow them to air dry.
How We Selected the Best White Sneakers to Wear With Dresses
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
We curated this guide to the best white sneakers to wear with dresses after three rounds of editor product testing, where we paid special attention to style appeal, versatility, and comfort as we assessed decades-old icons and our personal holy grail footwear styles. We collaborated with Footwear News editors to select the most iconic and beloved white sneaker styles that pair beautifully with dresses. We also chose sneakers based on comprehensive market research and customer reviews, making sure to include options for different material preferences, foot types, and occasions that call for different types of dresses. Our list of the best white sneakers to wear with dresses also includes shoes featured in Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time. This list was created with expert input from our editorial team and a diverse panel of footwear industry insiders, as well as key metrics and data related to the popularity and historical significance of the included shoes. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She updated this guide to the best white sneakers to wear with dresses in August 2024 with the Greatest Shoes of All Time and tips for how to clean white sneakers to wear with dresses.
