When you think about work-ready outfits, sneakers probably don’t come to mind. Their casual nature and anything-goes attitude seem to contradict the down-to-business vibes you strive to give off when you saunter into your nine-to-five. Your footwear routine is dominated by fabulous flats, classic pumps and ever-trendy mules during the workweek, but — gasp! — it’s totally possible to make a pair of trainers — statement ones at that — feel on-the-job ready.

It’s all about balance. With a few extra polished pieces on hand (think: sleek work wardrobe essentials or chic suit alternatives), you’ll be able to slide these bad boys right by HR and rack up a few extra style points while you’re at it. And why stop there? A stylish pair of sneakers has major after-hours potential too. This week’s Style Resolutions is breaking down sartorial barriers, bringing you three unexpected ways to wear statement sneakers anytime, anywhere.

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How to Wear Statement Sneakers for Work

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Don’t get us wrong — we love of a good pair of loafers or ladylike pumps, but sometimes you just need to spice things up. And when it comes to office attire, that means embracing unexpected style essentials and silhouettes, like a pair of good ol’ off-duty sneaks. This edgy metallic set is straight-up glam, but runs the risk of reaching over-the-top status if not styled just right. Tone down their look-at-me aesthetic with a modern take on a traditional suit, styling these gilded gems alongside black tailored trousers and a printed blazer. A button-down blouse is non-negotiable, and this flowery number is polish and panache all rolled into one. Round out the look with a structured color-block bag and elegant hoop earrings for a work-ready outfit that will send midweek wardrobe blahs packin’.

Chiara Ferragni Flirting Sneakers ($395) + Topshop Tall Fan Print Slouchy Blazer ($110), Mango Belt Straight-Fit Trousers ($80), Warehouse Pom Pom Print Shirt ($69), J.Crew Pendulum Hoop Earrings ($38), Zara Crossbody Bag With Contrast Flap ($70), Vapour Multi-Use Palettes ($46)

How to Wear Statement Sneakers for a Night Out

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Whether you’re bar hopping with the girls or strolling along the waterfront with bae, a chic pair of sneakers will never let you down. Not only will these slip-ons keep your feet happy and pain-free all night long, but they’ll also add an It girl-approved dimension to any out-on-the-town ensemble. Team them with a modern shift dress and a classic leather jacket for a getup that reads minimalist muse on a mission. Glam it up with glitzy drop earrings, an iridescent clutch and a dramatic cat eye, then prepare to field compliments.

Chiara Ferragni Flirting Sneakers ($395) + J.Crew Collection Leather Motorcycle Jacket ($550), COS Dress With Bow Drape ($115), BaubleBar Sirenuse Drops ($34), Comme des Garçons Striped Iridescent Leather Pouch ($158), J.W. Anderson Double-Sphere Gold-Plated Ring ($145), Lâncome Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner ($38)

How to Wear Statement Sneakers for the Weekend

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Sneakers and denim are a match made in heaven, but together they aren’t exactly blazing any new style trails. Flip the script on your weekend repertoire by dressing up your favorite pair of statement sneakers with a bright floral midi skirt and a distressed military shirt for a getup that’s ready to take on Sunday brunch or a picnic in the park (and make your crew totally green with envy while you’re at it) like a boss. Take it there with tassel-tastic drop earrings, retro cat-eye shades and a wool fedora with endless cool-girl appeal.

Chiara Ferragni Flirting Sneakers ($395) + Zara Military Shirt ($70), H&M Calf-Length Skirt ($60), Mango Tassel Earrings ($26), Janessa Leone “Camellia” Wide Brim Wool Fedora ($181), Half-Frame Exaggerated Cat-Eye Sunglasses ($20), Mango Chain Patent Bag ($40)

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Libby MacCarthy
Libby MacCarthy is an urban planner turned writer with a love (bordering on unhealthy obsession) of all things fashion and beauty related. She lives for perfectly brewed coffee, farmer's markets, dinner parties and perusing impeccably designed boutiques. When she's not on the hunt for the latest trends, you'll likely find her plotting her next adventure or nose deep in a book. Libby currently splits her time between the East Coast and her adopted home of France. Follow her daily adventures on Instagram.