If you’ve spent anytime on the site here, you’ve seen me in high-tops. They may not be for everyone, but they are for this one. I adore them (see my current favs here.) They add that cool sporty vibe I adore to literally everything.
But — I do realize high-tops are sometimes a little trickier to style than lower-profile sneakers, especially on those of us with shorter frames.
4 Ways I Style My High-Tops For Everyday
Here I’ve rounded up some of my favorite ways to wear my beloved high-tops (don’t make me give you a count of how many I own, k thx) that don’t cut off your leg length too much or look too much like you’re headed to work on your free throws (unless that IS your vibe and you rock it.)
**Indicates meets our requirements for sustainability
1. True White High-Tops + All Black
Digging the fisherman sweaters right now and love how this look came together. When it cools a tiny bit more here I’ll be wearing it on repeat.
These Re/Done straight leg jeans are fab and there aren’t many that I liked cuffed these days, but these work (btw, I sized up in these to a 29.) The fact that they are black underneath helps the seamless cuffing here, so not all jeans work well with this combo. If I had to pick a fall uniform…this would be it.
I so, so, so dig my Zadig & Voltaire high tops because of the cool factor, but these babies do take a while to fully break-in. They are a little tight across the toe box (coming from someone who typically needs a little more room there,) but with time and thicker socks they stretch to fit.
If you’re looking for a similar pair under $100? My Sam Edelman’s (see them styled below) are a great alternative.
2. Off-White High-Tops + Black Jeans & Taupe Sweater Blazer
Oh, yes. You know I love this J.Crew sweater blazer and how fun is it over all black and paired with the adorable Commes de Garcons x Converse sneakers?
I’m a fangirl of that brand for sure (you’ve seen my fav striped top here,) and their high-tops are just the coolest AND cutest at the same time. Size down by 1/2 like usual in Chucks.
Sweater Blazer | Jeans** | High-Tops | Tee
Sweater Blazer | Jeans** | High-Tops | Tee
Sweater Blazer | Jeans** | High-Tops | Tee
3. White High-Tops + Blue Jeans & Stripes
This is another true go-to look I’m digging. You’ve heard me rave about this cute puff sleeve top recently and these Rag & Bone Maya jeans (I sized up) are just a seriously comfy weekend kinda fit.
I could wear mules or boots with this look, but I love the sportiness that high tops add, like I mentioned. It makes the outfit feel very ‘me!’
These Sam Edelman Avon high tops are amazing and look like a much more expensive brand but for a reasonable under $80 price tag. They fit true to size and are much more comfortable than that expensive brand I’m thinking of, too! (Ahem, Golden Goose)

Utility Jacket | Top | Jeans | Sneakers | Bag
4. White Mid-Top Sneakers + Sweats
Last but certainly not least, I’ve been wearing this style of P448 Mid Top sneakers for years now. The lower shaft height makes them so easily wearable with many different pants and jeans, and they are SO cushiony inside. Many of my joggers and sweats hit lower on my ankle since I’m just 5’4″ and the mid-tops really work beautifully with a range of my comfy pants.
Raincoat c/o | Similar Hoodie** | Pants | Sneakers
Side note, this gorgeous Everlane raincoat is a fav as well, and I don’t say that about many raincoats. I really love how pretty it is, and it’s made from recycled water bottles to boot. The fit is perfectly oversized, but not too much. Wearing a S.
Raincoat c/o | Similar Hoodie** | Pants | Sneakers
My Favorite White + Off-White High-Tops
I’ve rounded up some of my very favorite white and ivory high tops for ya here. I find that sometimes the worn-in or off-white colors are slightly easier to style if you’re just venturing into white sneaker territory. That being said, I adore a bright white shoe maself, and there are some rad styles out there to choose from!
xo,
L
Hey hey…would love you to follow all my daily style musings, donut pics and dance parties over on Instagram @laurajansenstyle. I try to keep it real over there, with a side of fun and a good dose of social justice…coming at you live, from sunny Portland, Oregon. 😉
Lovely photos by Posy Quarterman.
Thanks for this post, Laura! I’m curious to know how you handle socks. Ankle socks? If higher, what color works best with black jeans/white high tops?
i tend to be one to wear a lot of ankle socks yeah, but i’d probably stick to matching the shoes if wearing taller! or i’m known to pull out my leopard print socks for such occasions haha.
Are the jeans in look #2 the same as in look #1? (The link goes to some NB sneakers)
yes they are! oops sorry. Fixing now. Thanks for the heads up!