Old Money Sneakers: How to Wear White Sneakers the Classic Way

Sneakers can look old money. The trick is to pick the right pair and wear it with the right clothes. A clean, plain white sneaker with tailored trousers and a knit looks relaxed and classic. A chunky, logo-heavy trainer does not. Here is what to look for and how to wear them.

What makes a sneaker old money

• Plain and white (or cream, navy or tan). No neon, no big logos.
• A slim, low sole. Think tennis court, not running track.
• Simple materials: smooth leather, suede or canvas.
• Clean. White sneakers only work when they are kept white.

The 3 styles that work

1. The minimal leather sneaker

A low white leather sneaker with a flat sole and almost no details. This is the most useful pair. It works with chinos, pleated trousers, jeans and even a relaxed suit.

2. The canvas tennis sneaker

Light and summery, like the classic Italian canvas tennis shoe. Best with linen trousers, shorts and summer dresses.

3. The suede sneaker

In tan, navy or grey suede, it feels warmer and a little more grown-up. Good for autumn with knitwear and flannel or wool trousers.

How men wear them

• Knitted polo + pleated trousers + white sneakers. The easiest smart-casual outfit there is.
• Quarter zip + chinos + white sneakers. Good for travel and weekends.
• Light jacket + cable knit + dark jeans + white sneakers. Casual, but still put together.

What to wear with white sneakers (men)

Old Money Diamond Knit PoloShop nowQuiet Luxury Pleated Gurkha TrousersShop nowElegant Quarter Zip SweaterShop nowCasual Chino PantsShop now

How women wear them

• Cable knit + pleated midi skirt + white sneakers. Soft, relaxed and very easy to walk in.
• Striped shirt + white jeans + white sneakers. The classic weekend outfit.
• Blazer + straight jeans + white sneakers. Smart enough for the office on a Friday.

What to wear with white sneakers (women)

Women's Cable Knit SweaterShop nowPleated Knit Midi SkirtShop nowStriped Cotton ShirtShop nowOld Money High-Waisted TrousersShop now

Socks and trouser length

Wear no-show socks so the ankle stays bare, or plain white or navy socks if it is cold. Trousers should end at the ankle or just above it, with little or no break. Long trousers that pile up on top of sneakers look messy.

How to keep white sneakers white

• Wipe them with a damp cloth after wearing.
• Clean the soles with a soft brush and a little soap.
• Store them with shoe trees or paper inside to keep the shape.
• Have two pairs and swap them, so each pair can dry.

When to choose loafers instead

For dinners, weddings, the office or anything where you would wear a blazer, loafers look better. See our guide to old money loafers.

Keep reading

• Old money shoes for men
• Old money shoes for women
• Old money outfits for men
• Quiet luxury outfits for women

FAQ

Are sneakers old money?
Yes, if they are plain, low and clean. A simple white leather or canvas sneaker fits the look. Chunky trainers with big logos do not.

What colour sneakers are old money?
White first, then cream, navy, tan and grey.

Can I wear white sneakers with pleated trousers?
Yes. Keep the trousers at ankle length so they do not pile up on the shoes.

Do I wear socks with old money sneakers?
No-show socks in summer. Plain white or navy socks in colder months.