Trend Alert: Sneakers

I’m thrilled to introduce you to my friend and fellow San Antonio blogger and PR entrepreneur, Aquila Mendez-Valdez! Aquila is guest blogging today to talk to you about one of the latest trends, SNEAKERS! Aquila writes at Haute in Texas on the crazy ruckus that is her life. She is married to current Mexican Basketball National Team member, Orlando Mendez-Valdez. Now they, along with their daughter Cora and Bichon Frise Frenchie, travel back and forth between Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, and Orlando’s hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Don’t forget to head over to her blog to see my trend, Fall Florals!

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The first time I saw Rihanna wearing Chanel with sneakers, I thought she’d finally lost it. Then we started seeing the trend pop up just about everywhere, from the non-Chanel runways, to style blogs, to fashion industry sites. I’ve warmed up to the idea now, and being six feet tall, I’m beginning to see the benefits as well.

Sneakers, slip-on, hidden heel, or trainers, are officially cool with a mini-skirt and a shift dress. To be honest, they’re pretty much cool with just about everything. The point is to push the boundaries of confining your Nikes to your gym routine, and breaking them in to your more stylish line-up. Here’s how to pull the look off without risking a trip to the mental ward.

1. Choose slip-on sneakers to ease in to the trend.
A pair like these Steve Madden ones here are quilted for a sophisticated look, and the black color ensures you’ll look fierce, not frumpy. Pair with a black mini skirt and oversized knit sweater for an urban chic feel.

2. Coordinate your colors.
Taking a note from Rihanna, similar colors in your sneaker and the rest of your outfit help other less fashion-forward individuals see the trend for what it is: functional and fabulous. Choose a pair like these from New Balance here that can also go the distance in the gym when the trend fades.

3. Sneak in a high heel if you must.
If the thought of being flat footed in anything other than a sweatshirt and sweatpants makes you feel nauseous, Nike has been giving us great hidden wedge options for a few years now. I’m actually pretty obsessed with this pair here, and I think they’re neutral enough to go with everything. Pair with ankle length black trousers and a slinky sheer top for a fun evening look.

4. Work in a fun print or pattern if you can.
Animal print, ironic phrases, pretty much anything goes with this sneaker trend. I think designers are assuming since we’re already willing to wear sneakers with an evening dress, might as well have some fun with it too! Try this pair from Sam Edelman here to spice things up and draw attention to yourself in all the best ways. I would pair these with leather shorts, a gold shimmery blouse, and a messy top knot.

There you have it! An exciting new way to test your fashion limits, and your feet will thank you for it. Let me know what you think: is this look fabulous or a total faux pas?

XO,
A