If you’ve been paying attention to fashion trends lately you surely have noticed the sneaker’s rise from – only appropriate at the gym – to – the shoe of choice for the style conscious.
Since the 80’s sneaker culture has slowly but surely seeped its way into the mainstream, and every brand from Adidas to Z Zegna are putting their best foot forward to capitalize on the sneaker’s uptake in popularity.
While many brands have entered the sneaker world, the OG’s of the world like Nike, Adidas, Reebok, and New Balance are doing it best. While it can’t be argued that Nike is at the forefront, New Balance is one of the brands reaching new heights with their classic sneaker silhouettes.
Now that you know sneakers are a must-have, you may wonder how to exactly work them into your every day wear. Luckily for you, StyleDemocracy has teamed up with New Balance and the dating Toronto blogger duo of Alexander Liang and “JetSet” Justine Iaboni to showcase how to wear New Balance with a variety of outfits.
We followed Alex and Justine through three of their dates to show you how to wear your New Balance sneakers when you’re on the clock, relaxing on the weekend or just enjoying life on one of Toronto’s most prestigious rooftop patios.
ON THE CLOCK
While not appropriate for every work environment, when done properly the sneaker is an excellent option to round out a business casual look. Whether you’re at a business lunch or an after work dinner meeting at Brassaii, the sneaker can easily be worked into business attire.
On Alexander | Blazer: Tiger of Sweden, Top: Tiger of Sweden, Bottoms: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 574
On Justine | Blazer: Tiger of Sweden, Top: Tiger of Sweden, Skirt: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 574
Raising the Rooftops
When you’re hanging out at one of Toronto’s hottest spots – The Thompson Hotel rooftop lounge to be exact – you’ve got no choice but to scream style from the rooftops.
On Alexander | Top: Tiger of Sweden, Denim: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 574
On Justine | Top: Topshop, Bottoms: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 574
Weekend Relaxing
Whether you’re on a stay-cation in the Thompson Hotel’s penthouse suite or enjoying the weekend away, a comfortable and fashionable sneaker is a travel essential for exploring the city.
On Alexander | Top: Tiger of Sweden, Bottoms: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 530
On Justine | Top: Tiger of Sweden, Bottoms: Tiger of Sweden, Sneakers: New Balance 996
Special Thanks to: New Balance Canada, Tiger of Sweden Toronto, SlavinRaphael , Brassaii on King, The Thompson Hotel Toronto, Alexander Liang, Justine Iaboni and Rock-it Promotions.
Photography: Grayson Miller
Styling: Grayson Miller + Amanda Phuong
Assistant: Ryan Miller