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The 13 Best Dressy Sneakers
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With the comfort of your favorite athletic sneakers and a style that can be dressed up for a work event, social gathering, or day out and about, the best dressy sneakers offer the best of both worlds. And this elusive footwear does indeed exist — you just need to dig around a bit. Lucky for you, I've spent some time surfing Amazon and have rounded up a list of the best dressy sneakers I could find.
What To Consider When Choosing A Dressy Sneaker
So, what exactly do I mean when I say "dressy" sneakers? Basically, I'm talking about sneakers that have the comfort features of an athletic shoe — like cushioned insoles, shock-absorbing footbeds, and slip-on designs — but the aesthetic features of a more formal shoe. Often, this means drawing inspiration from another style of dress shoe. For example, instead of the standard sporty look reminiscent of your intramural soccer league, they might pay homage to classics, like Oxfords or a pair of Mary Janes.
In other cases, the design may be similar to your regular kicks, but with a little more focus on fashion, thanks to upgraded materials like suede, brushed jersey, or knit fabric, or added style elements like zippers and faux fur trim. On this list, you’ll find a chic quilted slip-on and a classic leather lace-up sneaker, which are serious upgrades to your standard white sneaker.
If you're on the prowl for a great pair of dress shoes that still have the feel of your comfiest athletic shoes, take a look at this list of the best dressy sneakers below.
1These Water-Resistant Oxfords That Lace Up
What's great about them: Made with water-resistant leather and wingtip broguing (read: perforations), these lace-up Oxfords with platform soles are a classic choice. They have a chic retro look, but they're versatile enough to mix and match with more contemporary wardrobe pieces. There are 11 colors to choose from including black, apricot, and wine red, and fans have noted that they're extremely comfortable.
One reviewer wrote: "I wanted a fun shoe to wear with dress clothes and this is perfect. I wore to a work conference and they were really comfortable"
Sizes: 5 — 10 | Colors: 11
2Comfy Slip-On Sneakers From Dr. Scholl’s
What's great about them: If you're looking for a versatile shoe that's chic enough to wear with just about everything, these Dr. Scholl's slip-ons are just the ticket. With more than 17,000 reviews on Amazon, buyers have praised their style and comfort, which comes courtesy of the memory foam footbeds and soft collar lining. Available in regular and wide options, they're some of the best sneakers for wide feet, too. Choose from 27 colors and patterns (even leopard print), in materials like leather, velvet, and microfiber.
One reviewer wrote: "I absolutely love these shoes. I was looking for slip on sneakers that would be comfortable and that I could wear everyday but also dress up. These were the perfect match. They are very comfortable, I can wear with or without socks, my feet don't get too sweaty, easy to break in.”
Sizes: 5 — 13 (wide options available) | Colors: 26
3These Stretchy Sneakers That Feature Bouncy Gel Inserts
What's great about them: These slip-on dress sneakers feature comfy gel inserts that offer a weightless bounce with every step. The 1-inch, air-infused outsoles provide even more shock-absorption, and the stretchy fabric moves with your feet, instead of against them. This pair is available in three colors: black, navy, and taupe.
One reviewer wrote: "so comfortable. You can wear them right out of the box, no breaking in. They are like walking on a cloud. Would recommend them if you want comfortable shoes plus they are cute & can wear with anything.”
Sizes: 5 — 12 (wide options available) | Colors: 3
4These Quilted Slip-On Sneakers That Come In 14 Prints
What's great about them: Available in several color choices in both quilted fabric and faux snakeskin designs, these Jenn Ardor slip-on sneakers are a great blend of convenience and style. The latex padded insoles and breathable material keep feet comfy and cool, while the thick rubber soles absorb shock with every step.
One reviewer says: "I am very happy with these shoes. I am a teacher and on my feet all day. Dressy flats rarely have enough cushion, and sneakers are too casual. These are nice enough that I can wear them and look professional (with kind of a sporty vibe) and still be comfortable.”
Sizes: 6 — 10 | Colors & styles: 14
5Suede Steve Madden Sneakers With A Hidden Heel
What's great about them: These cool Steve Madden wedge sneakers feature 100% suede uppers and a zippered side for a look that's laidback and a little edgy. The wedge gives you an extra 2.25 inches of height, and the platform elastomer soles give you a little extra shock absorption. There are 18 colors to choose from and while several reviewers love how stylish and comfortable they are, they did note that it takes a day or two to break them in.
One reviewer wrote: "Super cute sneaker and really comfortable! Extremely versatile...wear with yoga pants and oversized sweater or dress up for going out. I loved these so much, I bought them in gray too!”
Sizes: 5 — 11 | Colors & styles: 18
6Leather Slip-On Sneakers Available In Wide Widths
What's great about them: Made with 100% leather uppers, these sleek Naturalizer sneakers feature a slip-on design with elastic side panels for extra convenience. Contour technology provides cushioning, and the 1-inch soles have anti-slip traction. The sleek silhouette makes these sneakers just the right amount of dressy. Plus, they're available in six color and pattern options, including a fun cheetah print.
One reviewer wrote: “These shoes are like walking on pillows! Comfortable. [...] Dressy enough to wear with a skirt, and shorts jeans.”
Sizes: 4 — 12 (narrow, wide, and extra-wide options available) | Colors: 6
7These Flexible, Lightweight Sneakers With Floral Detailing
What's great about them: These ballet-inspired sneakers feature breathable floral mesh detailing and a comfy memory foam footbed. The flexible outsole provides excellent traction and flexibility while the leather toe guards add durability. These cute sneakers come in four colors and can be easily dressed up or down to fit any occasion.
One reviewer wrote: "These shoes are amazing, this is my second pair. They last forever and are so comfortable. I am on my feet for 10 hours a day if not more, and I wear these shoes every single day. Great for walking and standing for extended periods of time. They are also so cute and very stylish. The lace pattern is perfect for dressy but comfortable work shoes.”
Sizes: 6 — 11 (wide options available) | Colors: 4
8These Ralph Lauren Sneakers With Elastic Sides
What's great about them: With a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, such as black and white striped, tan, and lemon, there’s a pair of these dressy sneakers to go with any outfit. They boast stretchy side elastic for flexibility with each step, as well as textured, rubber outsoles. Plus, they feature the iconic Ralph Lauren emblem on the heels for an added touch of style.
One reviewer wrote: "Absolutely love these shoes! Really cute and fashionable. When I first put them on they felt a bit snug and within 20 minutes the stretched perfectly and felt great. I just bought the brown pair! Great for spring, summer and fall! Highly recommend”
Sizes: 5 — 11 | Colors: 11
9These Sparkly Keds That Are So Eye-Catching
What's great about them: Covered in sparkle, these dressy Keds sneakers offer a classic silhouette with an eye-catching twist. They're made of Keds' trademark canvas but finished off with crushed glitter for extra flair. The sneakers feature a cushioned insole and rubber outsole and come with two sets of laces. Choose from nine different glittery colors.
One reviewer wrote: "I have these ‘fun to wear’ sparkle keds in black, so when I needed something to change into during a wedding from heels to dancing shoes… these pink keds were the perfect choice. I received many compliments.”
Sizes: 4 — 11 (wide options available) | Colors: 9
10These Knit Loafers That Are Totally Flexible
What's great about them: These flexible Skechers make excellent dress sneakers for work. They're built with air-cooled memory foam and soft, breathable jersey to make them extra comfy. The low-profile midsole works to absorb shock, and — best of all — fans have found that they are true to size. Choose from heather black, gray, stone, and navy.
One reviewer wrote: "Love these. I was looking for a comfy dressy looking shoe to go with my slacks. These are perfect. Cute and comfy.”
Sizes: 5 — 11 | Colors: 4
11These Chic Wedge Sneakers With Anti-Slip Soles
What's great about them: Constructed with faux leather and featuring a chic wedge design, these fashionable sneakers are an excellent combination of comfort and style. The bottoms boast durable, anti-slip rubber traction, while the uppers feature a trendy perforated design, and the heel adds just over 2 inches of height. Choose from a handful of colors, including brown, gray, black, and even pink.
One reviewer wrote: "I love these shoes. I wear them literally every time I wear my black leggings or skinny jeans. They are my “go to” shoes! I work at a school and am on my feet all day. They feel like tennis shoes but are dressy enough for work.”
Sizes: 5 — 11 | Colors: 16
12These Fur-Lined Platforms With A Zipper
What's great about them: These platform sneakers come in various colors and patterns and feature faux fur collars and chic side zippers. The platform sole paired with the hidden wedge offers 2 inches of height, while the padded memory foam insoles cushion your feet so that you can wear them all day.
One reviewer wrote: "They are very comfy. Casual yet dressy enough since they are suede. The lining helps keep your feet warm too without making them too hot.”
Sizes: 5 — 11 | Colors: 5
13These Shimmery Oxfords That Feature Molded Footbeds
What's great about them: Whether you're looking for shoes to wear to the office or something to carry you through post-work cocktails, these leather Oxford sneakers are a great choice. They're built with molded and cushioned footbeds that deliver exceptional support, along with ultra-light soles that keep them from feeling heavy. Plus, they're available in a variety of colors, including black, navy, beige, and pewter.
One reviewer wrote: "I wear these and the pewter every single day to work since receiving them. I’m on my feet for work between 9-11 hours and these have saved my back!”
Sizes: 5 — 10 (wide options available) | Colors: 5
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