They tread the streets and even the walkways. The fashion of recent years has changed drastically, with the introduction of white shoes. But when we talk about white shoes, we obviously mean above all sneakers, undisputed icons and must-have accessories of every wardrobe. Is there anyone who still doesn’t own a pair?
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The evolution of sneakers
In order to better appreciate them, it seems only right to make a small excursus on their history. The term ‘sneakers‘ comes from the verb ‘to sneak‘, which refers to the action of moving silently and without being noticed. This feature has been attributed because of the rubber sole which, unlike the heels and leather soles of the time, made the steps much quieter.
And it is precisely from the invention of the rubber sole that the history of sneakers begins. It was 1916 when the U.S. Rubber Company realized the true potential of these soles, marketing them on a pair of shoes. The following year, iconic models began to come out, giving rise to brands on the crest of the wave such as All Stars and Adidas.
But it was only in the fifties that they were consecrated as casual footwear thanks to the example of American movie stars. The first to wear them were Marlon Brando and Marilyn Monroe, certainly not just any two names. It was therefore normal that these shoes began to be popular among American boys. Sneakers then became a symbol of urban culture, becoming part of a way of expressing one’s rebellion against the fashion and bon ton labels of the time.
The fashion of white sneakers
Initially, white models were mostly used by athletes. Especially on the tennis courts, combined with outfits of the same color. There are numerous models who have trod the clay and grass courts, entering the history of sport. From Jannik Sinner’s Nike Court Air Zoom Zero to Alex Zverev’s Adizero Ubersonic.
But if before they were almost exclusive to the playing fields, in recent years sneakers have arrived on everyone’s feet. Yes, all of them and on all possible occasions. They have been cleared by both Robert Downey Jr. and Kristen Stewart. Both showed up on the Red Carpet pairing their style with dazzlingly colored sneakers. But not only them! Jared Leto, Jay-Z and Cristiano Ronaldo have also appeared in the tabloids for their style on important occasions.
In short, if before we could talk about a perfect footwear for sports, now we can consider white sneakers a real timeless accessory that can be worn on any occasion, from the most mundane to the most elegant.
Not just a symbol of elegance
The first model with a vulcanized rubber sole is due to Charles Goodyear, a name that over the years has unfortunately been submerged by the flood of brands that have approached this accessory, making it more and more famous. A good slice of merit certainly has Vogue, which in 2013 decided to portray in its French magazine the model Gisele Bündchen wearing only a pair of white sneakers, specifically the Stan Smith of Adidas out of production for about two years.
An image so strong that it went around the world for its avant-garde message, making sneakers not only a symbol of female empowerment, but also of a new minimalist and pragmatic style. They became the perfect shoes to be able to face the speed of the times in style, of the contemporary.
Perfect for any outfit
As we have seen, sneakers were born as an accessory for sports. The characteristics that distinguish them, in fact, are linked to the comfort and perfect fit of the shoe. But the simple design is what has won the hearts of those who have made them a unique piece of clothing, becoming a standard-bearer of the new minimalism. In fact, they go well with a casual look. Wearing them over cargo pants or tracksuits will make your daily look very simple but not trivial. And with a few other accessories it will be very easy to give a personality to the chosen outfit despite the simplicity of the clothes, often in solid colors.
Another perfect combination can be with a pair of jeans, giving a strong contrast with the hem of the trousers. Always informal but more refined, for a perfect match for an evening with friends or a day spent at the office. And why not? Why not combine them with a midi dress or a skirt that you particularly like? But, as we’ve already seen, white sneakers are also perfect for an elegant evening. In combination with a shirt of the same color, over trousers and a dark jacket, they will look great. In short, they are perfect for any type of outfit, both male and female.
The important thing is that all these shoes, symbols of contemporary fashion, are always clean and well-maintained so that they can shine at their best. And if you don’t know how to do it, no problem because we have written an article specifically on how to take care of white sneakers.
The meaning of the color white
Certainly not the easiest color to keep well, despite our advice. But why, among an infinite number of palettes, was white chosen with its nuances? Surely the answer lies in its simplicity and ease of combination. But white is also a strong color with a meaning that is not at all trivial.
It represents, in fact, the primordial element. Everything. Purity. It’s a color that transcends time and doesn’t have one, because it’s never been out of fashion. It can be the bearer of the freshness of summer but also of the harshness of winter. It brings light, peace and openness.
White is the perfect color for new beginnings and new possibilities because it opens up unexplored horizons and allows countless new combinations. White is the beginning of something new, like a perfect outfit!
The charm of white sneakers
Minimalism and versatility are the key words to describe these shoe models with a peculiar color. On the other hand, we have seen how their simplicity has conquered everyone, including Hollywood stars and even the royal consorts of the English crown. So who are we not to wear a pair?
For people who are more attentive to sustainability, Reebok has even put vegan shoes on the market, produced with plant-based materials. So there really is something for everyone!
What about you?
Which ones do you have in your closet?
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