Shoes and sneakers
Best sneaker colours for matching everything
By sneakersInn team · Updated
The sneaker colours that match everything are white, black, grey, off-white and navy. They're neutrals, so they sit quietly next to any colour of trouser or top. Buy white first, then black or grey, and add colour only when your basics are covered.
| Colour | Matches | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| White | Everything, especially navy, black and denim | Everyday, smart casual, summer |
| Black | Dark outfits, black jeans, monochrome | Evenings, dust, rain |
| Grey | Navy, black, white, denim, olive | Casual, retro runners, suede |
| Off-white or cream | Earth tones, stone, olive, brown | Relaxed, vintage-style outfits |
| Navy | Grey, white, khaki, denim | Smart casual, suede |
Why do neutrals go with everything?
Neutral colours have little or no colour of their own, so they don't compete with the rest of an outfit. Your trousers and top can be any colour and the sneakers still fit in. See colour matching for men.
Which colour should I buy first?
White. It looks clean, lifts dark outfits and works from shorts to relaxed suits. See white sneakers: why every man needs a pair.
When is black better than white?
On dusty harmattan days, in the rainy season, at night and with all-black or dark outfits. Black hides dirt and looks sharp.
Are off-white and cream worth it?
Yes, if you wear earth tones such as olive, stone, brown and rust. Cream looks warmer and more relaxed than bright white, and shows dust a little less.
How do I wear coloured sneakers?
- Repeat the colour once. A red sneaker with a red cap or a thin red stripe in a shirt.
- Keep the rest neutral. A loud sneaker with a loud outfit looks busy.
- Choose colour with a neutral base. A white sneaker with coloured details is easier than an all-colour sneaker.
Which colours are hardest to match?
Bright, saturated colours like neon green or orange all over. They're fun in a rotation but best worn with simple outfits. See matching sneakers to your outfit.
Questions
Should sneakers match my belt?
With sneakers, belts are casual and matching is less strict. Brown or black leather, canvas or suede all work.
Do white sneakers work with black outfits?
Yes, it's a sharp contrast. Black sneakers make a black outfit look sleek; white sneakers make it look fresher.
Which sneakers should I own?
See the 5 sneakers every man needs in his rotation and browse our shop. Our sneakers are high-quality replicas of popular designs, labelled as such.