The 5 Pairs of White Shoes Every Wardrobe Needs
Although white isn’t a colour, technically speaking, it does come in many shades and is an undeniable standard for any shoe collection. The most stylish looks almost always come in an impeccable white version. White shoes are an obvious choice for summer and warm weather days, but you can also sport them when the first frost of winter arrives, punctuating your outfit with an unexpected pop of brightness.
From sneakers to flats and boots to loafers, there’s an endless array of several styles to choose from to enhance your ensembles. We have rounded up the 5 essential white shoes to add to your wardrobe... second-hand, of course. Let's take a look at our favourites.
The classic white sneaker
If you haven't invested in a pair of white sneakers yet, the time is now. The perfect mix of sporty and casual, the classic white sneaker has been a staple in our wardrobes for longer than we can remember and the trendy-yet-timeless style appears to be here to stay. Today, white running shoes are just as common at the gym as they are on the street and can even be appropriate for work, depending on the industry.
There’s no limit to styles and shapes, but our go-to style is the low-cut white trainer. The cult-favourite unisex Superga 2750 tennis shoe allows you to be as bold as you’d like with the rest of your outfit while keeping your feet comfortable. Because it’s so well made and timeless, this essential shoe style will never let you down.
If you have a weakness for high-top sneakers, we recommend the ultimate champions: the Nike Air Force 1. Offering optimal support, durability, and undeniable fashion appeal, this pair has everything you could ask for and more. And if you want to go bold, you can opt for a pair of Dad shoes. Adored by stars like Kaia Gerber and Nick Jonas, these old-school XXL running shoes are known for their chunky soles and exaggerated shape. Give this comfortable look a try and your feet will surely be happy.
Since fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world, we suggest turning to sneakers made with recycled leathers like the new Stan Smith Primegreen or vegan leather shoes like French brand Veja, one of Meghan Markle’s favourites. The best option to honour your earth-friendly values is to buy your next pair of sneakers second-hand on Vestiaire Collective. Thanks to our community of over 10 million Fashion Activists, we offer one of the easiest and most effective ways to shop more sustainably.
The casual white flat
Casual and comfortable flats are an excellent alternative to sneakers and add a dose of chic to any look. The flat has become a key silhouette for all of the major luxury brands and is officially a mainstay for fashion insiders. White flats, once reserved for special occasions or weddings, now offer a modern update to any outfit and will instantly boost your fashion factor. Not to mention, white matches everything in your wardrobe. This monochromatic colour is right in line with the minimalist trend and works like a blank canvas, allowing you to create a range of different looks.
We love accentuating a casual outfit with lace-up loafers or derbies for a cool unisex look. These classic and sleek shoes are a closet essential in any colour, but they’re especially appealing in white. Why? Because white brings a modern touch to an otherwise conservative look. Pair your favourite loafers with denim, a smart suit, or even velvet for an irresistible retro look. Or for a luxurious finish, you can reach for white flats in braided or grained leather, adding a sophisticated touch that will never go out of style.
Brace yourself for falling temperatures this autumn-winter season with the white boot. Inspired by the ‘70s and western styles, this key look is best worn in a streamlined way, without flashy embellishments or contrasting soles. The outfit's focus is the sleek pop of white, for a chic, minimalist look. The only requirement for your white boots is that you keep them impeccably clean.
The Sustainable white shoe
More and more brands are committing to eco-friendly initiatives and adopting more transparency in their production and distribution processes. For example, French brand Faguo minimises its carbon footprint and fights global warming by planting a tree in France or Belgium for each pair of shoes they sell. Their unisex collections feature well-designed, durable staples made from recycled materials.
Already famous for its stylish sneakers, another French label, Veja, has become a true pioneer of sustainable footwear and has recently launched its first line of stylish workout shoes. This new range of running shoes has gotten loads of positive feedback from fitness enthusiasts and combines performance with recycled and biobased materials. The commitment to going green has also extended to global sportswear giants. Adidas has teamed up with Stella McCartney to redesign the iconic Stan Smith in 100% vegan leather. The perfect choice when you want to combine style with your eco-friendly commitment.
When it comes to building a sustainable wardrobe, we usually think of curating our clothes, but the committed Fashion Activist doesn’t stop there. Shoe consumption also plays a vital role in the fight against fast fashion and waste, a significant contributor to the suffering of our planet. But how can the fashion industry transform into a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, circular industry? With a focus on consuming more mindfully. Vestiaire Collective is here to help you shop second-hand or vintage and buy or sell the shoes you no longer wear or that don’t fit your current style. By selling and shopping pre-loved, you’re contributing to the circular fashion movement with a clear conscience and it’s the perfect way to transform your shoe collection without drawing on the earth’s natural resources.
Designer White Shoes
Adding a touch of luxury to your wardrobe is the best way to instantly upgrade a simple outfit. Today's top designers have embraced the monochrome craze and continually create looks adorned in head-to-toe white. Investing in a pair of white shoes from a leading fashion house guarantees you'll own an accessory that will live in your wardrobe for many years to come. Renowned for its quality, unique designs, and exceptional materials, designer footwear encapsulates all of the elements of the perfect shoe.
Year after year, the prize for the #1 perfect shoe goes to Christian Louboutin. As fabulous as they are iconic, the famous red-sole pumps are eternal head-turners. You can wear Louboutins as the perfect wedding shoes and pull them out again and again for future occasions because as aesthetically pleasing as they are, they’re also very comfortable. In the end, owning a coveted pair of white designer shoes is to own a work of art. Among our favourite “artists” is Amina Muaddi, who has cemented the pyramid heel as the brand's signature design. To highlight the clean lines of these ultra-graphic pumps, it’s best to pair them with a minimalist look.
No menswear wardrobe is complete without a pair of white shoes. Thankfully, the top designers of today have perfected this essential style. The practical-yet-polished Triple S by Balenciaga is a great choice to complete almost any look. For classic styling, Tom Ford offers a selection of modern urban silhouettes that ensure a completely chic outfit. And if you’re looking for iconic sophistication, Hermès sneakers are an elegant addition to elevate any man's wardrobe. You can find them all second-hand on Vestiaire Collective at a much lower cost than buying new — both for your wallet and for the environment.
The statement white shoe
Do you love coming up with totally original looks? Your style is completely unique to you and one way to highlight it is with white shoes in your favourite design. Whether you're sporting a classic silhouette or the latest launch, you won't go unnoticed with a bright pop of white on your feet. To secure white shoes that nobody else will be wearing, we recommend shopping Vestiaire’s vintage selection where you’ll find rare fashion classics that have made their mark in the last few decades.
The Doc Martens lace-up boot is one of the best vintage boots to add to your collection. Refresh your favourite white boots by pairing them with cropped trousers and an oversized denim jacket for an edgy look. Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star are more accessible than luxury brand sneakers and they add a laid-back touch and a slightly ‘70s vibe when paired with a dress. For a real statement-maker, reach for the ‘90s sportswear inspired Buffalos.
The chunky platform sneakers awaken an air of nostalgia and are ideal when you want to stay comfortable while gaining a few inches. Stylish on both men and women, the Fila Disruptor lies halfway between Dad shoes and running shoes. Stand out from the crowd and turn heads in either vintage or pre-loved white statement shoes.
For the best selection of statement white shoes at the best prices, browse our endless selection of modern and vintage shoes on the Vestiaire Collective app. When you shop pre-loved, you treat yourself with fresh wardrobe picks and minimise your carbon footprint at the same time...what could be better?
Whether your ideal white shoes are designer sneakers, flats, made from responsible materials, or classics, On Vestiaire Collective, there is bound to be a style that you can't live without. Your perfect white shoe will keep you company throughout every season. That is, as long as you clean your shoes properly so that they retain their shine. Your perfectly clean pair of white shoes is a definitive staple style that adds a polished finish to any outfit. If you're looking to add one of these 5 must-haves to your collection, why not find them pre-loved?
At Vestiaire Collective, we are proud to be pioneers in second-hand and vintage fashion online since 2009. Our selection is full of guaranteed authentic pieces that are rigorously checked by our team of experts. We make it possible to consume fashion in a more environmentally friendly way. After all, why buy new when there are millions of iconic pieces in perfect condition available all over the world? Giving clothing and shoes a second life prevents them from ending up in a landfill and helps reduce the resources needed to produce a new piece. Join the circular fashion movement and shop sustainably on Vestiaire Collective, where your purchases truly make a difference. Together, we can save the future of fashion and the planet.