Why Sneakers Are the Most Sustainable Shoe You Can Own (And How to Style Them)
There's a photo I took a while back — blue Converse on a bright green painted floor — and every time I look at it I think: this is exactly what dressing for yourself looks like. No occasion. No outfit planned around it. Just a pair of sneakers that made me happy and a floor that happened to be the most perfect shade of green.
That's the energy I want Re:dressed to always come back to. Dressing because it makes you feel something. And today I want to talk about sneakers — specifically why they might be the most sustainable, most versatile, most underrated piece in your wardrobe.
The case for a great pair of sneakers
A good pair of sneakers will outlast almost everything else in your wardrobe if you take care of them. Canvas sneakers like Converse can be washed, re-laced, re-soled, and worn for years. Compare that to a pair of fast fashion heels that fall apart after three wears — there's no competition. Quality sneakers are a sustainable investment, especially when bought second-hand.
Second-hand sneakers — yes, really
I know what you're thinking. But second-hand sneakers are genuinely one of the best thrift finds you can make. Converse, Nike, New Balance, Vans — all of these pop up regularly on Yaga, at Milnerton Flea Market, and in charity shops across Cape Town. People buy sneakers, wear them twice and sell them. Your gain entirely.
What to look for: check the soles for wear, look at the toe caps for creasing, check that laces are intact (easy and cheap to replace), and give them a good clean when you get home. White sole yellowing can often be fixed with a magic eraser or baking soda paste.
How to style sneakers — the Re:dressed way
With a floaty midi dress — one of the best combinations in fashion. The contrast between feminine and casual is chef's kiss every single time. White sneakers especially.
With wide leg or flare pants — you've seen this on the blog already with the brown swirl pants. Chunky white sneakers under wide leg trousers is a look that works for literally every body type.
With a co-ord set — matching two-piece sets look incredible with clean sneakers. Keeps the look from being too try-hard.
With everything else — jeans, skirts, shorts, blazers, even some dresses that people would typically wear heels with. Sneakers are the great equaliser of fashion. They make everything more wearable, more real, more you.
The blue Converse rule
Here's a styling secret: a pop of colour on your feet grounds an outfit in personality without overwhelming it. Blue Converse with a neutral outfit. Red sneakers with an all-black look. Green trainers with earth tones. Your shoes don't have to match — they just have to feel like you chose them on purpose.
And the best part? You can find almost any colour of Converse second-hand for R100–R200 in Cape Town if you're patient and you look in the right places. 🌿
What's your go-to sneaker? Drop it in the comments — I genuinely want to know.
— Sloane xo
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