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Updated June 12, 2024: This article on the best white sneakers to wear with dresses was updated with new product selections with editor testing and review notes after a second round of shoe testing by Footwear News staff. We are currently testing additional women’s white sneakers from brands like Alo Yoga and New Balance for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
Any summer dress should be a one-and-done outfit that provides the utmost ease and comfort — and the shoes you team it with should, too. The versatility and functionality of bright white sneakers for women know no bounds, and the best pairs can instantly elevate any summer dress in luxe, retro, or sporty style appeal.
If you have summer travel on the horizon or spend the majority of the sunny season on your feet, it’s best to save yourself the strain and consider white sneakers as a functional, fashion-forward swap for heels or unsupportive sandals. The best white sneakers to wear with dresses not only provide cushioning and stability, but can also give your look some new attitude. The TikTok-viral “wrong shoe theory” champions that exact sentiment, as it goes to inspire shoe choices that juxtapose other components of your outfit. Think a colorful slip dress with timeless Nike Air Force 1 basketball shoes, or adidas Samba soccer shoes — one of the most popular shoes to pair with dresses in 2024 — with a strapless summer dress for date night.
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White is the most neutral sneaker colorway you can buy because 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 on 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 or power suit.
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 wedding sneakers you can slip into for the reception to white travel sneakers that are easy to pack and white chunky sneakers that are a gold-standard street style statement — we cover it all. Read on for our curation of the best white sneakers to wear with dresses, with summertime outfit inspiration, and 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 have the ability to elevate the style appeal of a dress. The best white sneakers to wear with dresses, however, still represent many different types of shoes. There’s different materials like leather, mesh, and canvas, as well as the 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 two rounds of comprehensive testing — all of which have roots in heritage athletic footwear and have since carved out a top spot as a gold-standard lifestyle shoe. Our top white sneakers to wear with dresses not only front serious style appeal; they’re also made to be ultra-durable and supportive. Below, we’ve evaluated each sneaker based on our key criteria, including style versatility, trend appeal, essential comfort, and long-term durability.
- Nike Air Force 1 Shoes: If you’re in the market for a luxe-looking sneaker that’s purely framed in white leather, crisp and cool Nike Air Force 1 Shoes will take you far. The street style icon and veteran basketball shoe boasts a slightly stacked platform midsole for added height, while the low cut allows room to play with stylish socks or leave the ankles bare. Their grippy rubber soles hold up on all kinds of terrain, be it the park or city sidewalks, and all-around plush padding cushions every zone of the foot for long days on your feet.
- Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes: These affordable white shoes to wear with dresses are made to get dirty. Converse high top sneakers are timeless staple, but cult fans know that their breathable canvas uppers are tough enough to brave mud like a badge of honor, while also being easily machine washable when they’re in need of a refresh. Their high-top silhouette seamlessly flatter the leg, whether you opt for a mini, midi, or maxi hem.
- adidas Samba OG Shoes: These on-trend white adidas sneakers are a no-brainer to pair with dresses. Samba shoes are a mainstay in celebrity street style, as their low-profile design doesn’t distract from a frock up top, but brings a sporty-chic accent that reads especially high-fashion with today’s minimalist trends. Plus, Samba’s low cut lets your ankles breathe during summer, while rubber gum soles and suede panelling infuse retro flair.
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
Their bright uppers, crisp seaming, and bold — not bulky — profile allow them to play as a chameleon, whether paired with soft and flowy sundresses or to bring textural contrast to a denim dress. These top white sneakers to wear with dresses also 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
Nike Air Force 1 Sneakers
Shown with: Bombas Women’s Lightweight Frill Quarter Socks ($18), Miaou Thais Dress ($295), Ray-Ban Rb3741 Emy Rectangular Sunglasses ($151), Staud Mini Moon Leather Hobo Bag ($290)
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
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
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes
Shown with: J.Crew Claudia Dress ($168), Mango Rattan Bag ($99.99)
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
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
adidas Samba OG Shoes
Shown with: Bombas Women’s Lightweight No Show Socks ($13), Skims Fits Everybody Tube Dress ($80), The Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco ($128)
Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kristen Stewart, Millie Bobby Brown, Rachel McAdams, Emily Ratajkowski, Taylor Swift, and more
The simplistic and timeless design of the Nike Cortez has allowed it to endure. Just as it did decades ago, today, it features a leather and synthetic upper, a foam midsole for cushioning, and a rubber outsole for durability and traction. The shoe is lightweight and comfortable, making it perfect for everyday wear or light exercise. 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 with a white crochet frock, the white Nike Cortez has proved to be the best Nike summer shoe for all warm-weather looks.
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.”
What testers say: “The Nike Cortez sneakers are the best shoe for moms-on-the-go! I have been searching for comfy sneakers that are cute with any outfit. These are them! They are sleek and can be dressed up or down. I have worn them with dresses and workout gear and get compliments every time! The fit is really nice, not too snug but still snug enough that they aren’t flying off my feet.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Materials: Leather upper, gum midsole
Celebrity fans of the brand: Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Camila Cabello
What testers say: These shoes are absolutely a staple for your wardrobe! They are my comfiest shoes and roomy for wide feet. I absolutely love them. They’re Just like Rihanna’s first batch of Creepers, if not better.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
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.”
What testers say: “I had my doubt about how comfortable these would be because I thought everyone was just wearing them for the trend. But as soon as I put it on, I was surprised by how comfortable they felt on my feet. Been walking the dogs and going on small hikes in these shoes, felt great! very stylish too.”
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
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
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: 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
What reviewers 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 the fact 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 work 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.
While white low-top sneakers traditionally come in leather and canvas versions, you can’t go wrong with either. White leather sneakers gained traction in the fashion space after Celine’s former creative director, Phoebe Philo, wore adidas’ Stan Smith sneakers while closing out Celine’s spring 2011 show.
The white leather sneaker has a slimline silhouette that works perfectly with sharp tailoring and casual looks and is ideal for those who prefer a more low-key look when it comes to 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 leave plenty of wiggle room for playful sock layering or wide feet.
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 two rounds of editor product testing, where we paid special attention to style appeal, versatility, and comfort. 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. 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 June 2024 with new sneakers releases and additional editor testing review notes.
