I gotta tell ya, I’m obsessed. Some might even say it’s a problem how many pairs I own.
Just don’t look in my closet, okay? The last time I counted, I had over 50 pairs of sneakers.
Insane, I know! From classic Vans to flashy designer kicks, I’ve got them all. My friends say I have a legit sneaker addiction.
But hey, there are worse vices to have, right?
Anywho, today I wanted to talk about some great alternatives to one of the OG sneaker brands – Converse.
If you’re like me, you love the classic Chuck Taylor All Star but want to mix it up sometimes.
I’ve been wearing Chucks since high school but have expanded my sneaker horizons a lot over the years.
While I’ll always have a place in my heart (and closet) for Converse, it’s fun to branch out and try new styles.
Well, you’ve come to the right place for some Chuck Taylor alternatives!
I’ve broken down my top options across different styles and price points.
Vans
First up is Vans. These canvas slip-ons have a similar minimalist vibe to Chucks but come in way more color and pattern options.
I especially love their checkerboard and floral prints. So cute for spring and summer! I have three different pairs of checkered Vans that I like to rotate. Black and white is my go-to, but I also have red and blue pairs to mix it up.
Florals are great for dressing up an outfit too. I have a pink rose pattern that I’ll wear with sundresses or skirts when going out. Vans are a little more padded than Converse so can be more comfy for all-day wear.
I made the mistake of wearing Chucks to Disneyland once – ouch! Bad idea. Vans are perfect for long days on your feet when you still want that casual sneaker style.
Keds
Next we have Keds. These have more of a retro tennis shoe look but are still a great basic white sneaker option.
I like to wear these with dresses or skirts when I want something slightly more feminine than my clunky Chucks.
Keds are so versatile – they look just as cute with a flowy dress as they do with jeans and a tee. I have the classic Champion style in white leather, black canvas, and a fun rose gold metallic. The white leather ones are perfect for summer sundresses or skirt outfits.
I wore them recently with a blue polka dot skirt and white top and got so many compliments! The rose gold pairs nicely with dark jeans or navy dresses.
While the white isn’t quite as universal as a basic black, they still go with everything. And they’re lightweight and easy to dress up or down.
Adidas Superstar
Moving into the athletic sneaker arena, Adidas Superstars are an obvious choice. These have the iconic shell toe cap and stripes that give them a cool streetwear vibe.
I like to wear mine with joggers or cuffed jeans for a sporty casual look. I have the classic black leather pair as well as white with black stripes. Both are so versatile with athleisure outfits. Joggers or leggings with an oversized tee or hoodie and my Superstars are my go-to weekend uniform.
They look equally cool with straight leg jeans and a bomber jacket for an urban vibe. And you can’t go wrong with an all-black look – black jeans and top with the black leather Superstars to pull it all together.
The shell toe adds that nostalgic, old school flair that I love. Definite must-have sneaker!
Puma Suede
Puma Suede sneakers are super popular right now. The suede material gives them a nice texture, and they come in so many fun color combos.
I have three pairs currently – rose gold, blue, and tan. The rose gold pair are my newest and I’m obsessed! They look amazing with black leggings and a hoodie for weekend coffee dates. I’ve also styled them with skinny jeans and a bomber jacket to go out.
The blue is a more bold, statement color that I’ll wear with neutral outfits. And the tan gives a nice earthy, retro vibe paired with dresses or mom jeans. The variety of colorways you can get is what I love about Puma Suedes – they’re a great way to add subtle color and texture to casual outfits.
Toms
If you’re looking for comfort, Toms are amazing. They have canvas uppers like Converse but are designed more ergonomically to support your feet.
I swear I can walk miles in my Toms without any pain! Plus, Toms donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair sold! So you can feel good wearing these.
I have both their classic canvas slip-on style as well as a suede pointed toe version.
The canvas ones are perfect for jeans and tees or shorts and dresses in warm weather. And the suede pointy toe pair dress up joggers and sweaters for a polished casual look.
After a long day of walking around in other shoes, I’m always excited to change into my comfy Toms!
Nike Air Force 1
No sneaker list would be complete without the iconic Nike Air Force 1! A true streetwear staple, these chunky kicks are so versatile.
I love wearing mine with baggy jeans, leggings, you name it! I have the all-white leather pair and a black leather pair, both classic and statement-making. With baggy jeans or joggers and an oversized graphic tee is a go-to casual look.
Mine have held up so well over time and go with everything. Their chunky sole just elevates any outfit. And they’re comfy enough for all-day wear too.
The Air Force 1 is a sneaker that will never go out of style. I still remember begging my parents for a pair in high school! Definitely a must-have in any sneaker arsenal.
Timberland Wheat Boots
Okay, these Timbs aren’t really sneakers but had to give them a shoutout! The wheat colorway has a similar vibe to the classic Converse Chuck Taylors.
I wear my wheat Timberland 6-inch boots all winter long. They look amazing with leggings and sweaters or jeans and flannels. And you can’t beat that sturdy leather and lug sole for trekking through rain or snow.
I just got a new pair last winter and wore them constantly. Boots can veer into clunky territory, but these have a slimmer silhouette while still being practical for weather.
The wheat color gives them a vintage Americana type feel that I love. Just elevates a basic outfit and keeps my feet nice and toasty through those long winter months!
Gucci Ace
Now if you wanna get really fancy, check out the Gucci Ace sneakers! They have the simplicity of the Chuck Taylor with the bold interlocking G monogram.
Definitely an investment splurge but so worth it in my opinion! I have the classic white leather pair with the green and red stripes – so iconic. They instantly elevate any outfit. I like to style mine with dresses or skirts to play up the feminine vibe.
They work so well to add a designer touch to casual outfits too. I’ll wear them with jeans, a tee and leather jacket for a luxe weekend vibe.
Or joggers and a hoodie for high-low styling. The Ace sneaker is just the perfect marriage of classic and designer style. The ultimate fashion girl flex!
Veja V-12
For a more sustainable option, I love Veja. These French sneakers use recycled plastic bottles and organic materials like cotton.
So they’re on the pricier side but you feel good about buying them. Plus they’re super stylish in a minimalist way. I have their white leather V-12s and get compliments every time I wear them! They have the simple retro vibe of Converse but feel modern at the same time.
I’ll dress mine up with a flowy skirt or dress. Or wear casually with jeans and a sweater. The gold logo adds a subtle touch of flair. For days when I want a clean, understated look I’ll go for my Vejas. Minimal sneaker style while still being conscious with my purchase!
Greats Royale
Greats makes awesome, high-quality leather sneakers at a reasonable price point. Their Royale style has clean, simple styling reminiscent of the Chuck Taylor. If you want an elevated leather sneaker, Greats is a great affordable option.
I have their white leather Royale pair which I love dressing up with skirts or trousers for work. They make the outfit feel polished but still comfortable. I’ve also styled them with cuffed jeans and a blazer for weekends.
And the leather makes them a bit more luxe and refined for any occasion while maintaining that old school vibe. Worth checking out if you want an affordable, quality leather alternative to canvas sneakers!
Axel Arigato Clean 90
Another minimalist leather pick are Axel Arigato. Their Clean 90 style is so sleek and modern with the subtle logo side branding.
I love how they take a retro tennis shoe silhouette and update it. I have the white leather pair which literally goes with any outfit. They look equally perfect with dresses, jeans, trousers and everything in between.
The slim silhouette and glove leather material just make them so sharp and current. And they come in lots of color combos too. I wear mine for that refined designer sneaker vibe while still being comfortable for all-day wear. Definitely a brand to check out if you like flattering, minimalist design!
Adidas Continental 80
The Adidas Continental 80 is inspired by old school tennis shoes but has a contemporary vibe. I love the classic gum sole against white or black leather.
It’s just so sleek! I have both colorways – the black I’ll wear with black joggers and matching athleisure looks. And the white goes great with jeans or shorts in warm weather. The simple retro design feels on-trend right now.
And the 3-stripe branding adds athletic edge. I get compliments whenever I wear my Continental 80s! They’re my go-to when I want that sporty throwback look. So easy to just slip on and elevate a casual outfit. Adidas nailed it with this modern classic style.
Reebok Club C 85
For another tennis shoe throwback, check out the Reebok Club C 85. It has that iconic Reebok logo in bold white on the side just like the classics from the 80s and 90s.
I love the retro athletic style with jeans, joggers, you name it! I have the white leather pair and wear them constantly. They look so crisp with everything from leggings to trousers. And the gum sole adds a nice pop of contrast against the white upper.
I’m seeing the Club C everywhere lately and it’s easy to see why. That nostalgic sporty look is so on-trend right now. Reebok really reinvented a classic with this one!
New Balance 574
Can’t go wrong with New Balance either. The 574 is one their most popular core sneaker styles. It has that old school dad shoe appeal but with modern comfort features.
I have the core suede gray and white colorway. The two tone look gives it a more laidback sporty vibe that works great for weekends and casual outfits. They’re the type of sneaker that goes with everything thanks to that versatile gray and white combo.
And New Balance’s technical materials make them perfect for long days on your feet. A legendary retro sneaker from a brand that’s stood the test of time!
Golden Goose Superstar
Lastly, if you want an uber trendy (and pricey) option, check out Golden Goose. Their pre-dirtied sneakers have been seen on every celeb and influencer lately.
I know they’re kind of ridiculous but I can admit I love my Golden Goose Superstars! The worn-in vibe and satin finish give them a super luxe feel.
I have the classic white leather pair with the gold star. They instantly make an outfit look cooler and more fashion forward.
Even though they’re out there, the vintage Italian design is so appealing. I style mine with everything from leggings to dresses for that model off-duty look. Definitely a statement sneaker! But so fun to break out when I want to feel extra stylish.
Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger makes some really cool retro sneakers inspired by old school running shoes. Their designs take me back to the 60s and 70s track and field vibes.
I have two of their most popular styles – the Mexico 66 and the Serrano. The Mexico 66 has that iconic stripe and saddle stitching in bright 70s-esque color combos. I have a yellow pair that always gets compliments! It’s just so eye-catching and fun.
And surprisingly versatile too – I’ll wear them with mom jeans and a tee or a floral dress. The vibrant color pops against neutrals. The Serrano has more of a minimal running shoe look, almost like a vintage tennis shoe.
I love the gum sole against white leather with green accents. These give off mod 60s track vibes that look so cool paired with miniskirts or shift dresses. Onitsuka Tigers are definitely statement sneakers. If you like retro sporty styles with a bold dash of color, these are a must!
Yeezy Boost 350
Okay, okay, I know Yeezys are impossible to get and crazy expensive. But if you can somehow get your hands on the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350, they live up to the hype! The knit design hugs your feet so comfortably while still looking sleek and modern.
I scored a pair of the Zebra colorway on a random restock and freaked out. They look as cool as they do in pics. I style them with skinny black jeans or leggings and an oversized hoodie for an athleisure look. Or cropped jeans with a simple tee and denim jacket.
They instantly make any outfit look cooler. Yes, the price tag is insane and they’re so hard to get. But the lightweight knit, next-level comfy Boost sole and on-trend stylings make Yeezys must-have if you can manage grab a pair!
Adidas Stan Smith
For a classic tennis style, you can’t go wrong with the Adidas Stan Smith. This iconic all-white leather sneaker goes with absolutely everything.
I wear mine all year round! They look amazing with dresses and skirts in spring and summer. And in fall and winter, they complement jeans and trousers perfectly. That crisp, clean white leather is so timeless. Mine have actually held up great over time without getting too dirty.
I also have a fun pastel pink pair that adds subtle color when I want something brighter. But you really can’t beat the original white. An Adidas Stan Smith is a classic, versatile sneaker that every sneaker lover should own!
Common Projects Original Achilles
If you want a luxury leather sneaker, check out Common Projects. Their Original Achilles style is beautiful Italian leather with understated gold numbering.
I saved up forever for these but finally took the splurge. And I have zero regrets – they make any outfit instantly polished. I love wearing them to the office with trousers or a pencil skirt. They walk that perfect line between professional and stylish.
But the white leather colorway also looks amazing for weekends with jeans or casual dresses. The sleek silhouette and buttery leather mold perfectly to your feet.
At $400+ they are insanely priced. But I swear the clean styling and amazing construction make them worth it. My Common Projects are hands down the most versatile designer sneakers I own!
