Red carpet sneaker strut

MANILA, Philippines - It’s official: sneakers have gone from casual, practical and convenient street wear and into the realm of Hollywood chic.

It all started with Twilight star Kristen Stewart who always keeps a pair of sneakers with her. During the premiere of her film Snow White and the Huntsman in London, she did the big switcheroo that made the news. At the red carpet where fancy and glamorous high heels hold sway, Stewart decided to wear black sneakers to go with her sheer, lacy black dress.

More and more celebrities followed. Recently, 2013 Golden Globes hosts Amy Poehler and Tina Fey of Saturday Night Live! fame paired red and green Chuck Taylors with their golden gowns. Hollywood stars — like singer Rihanna, for example — are even being seen wearing sneakers on the streets or during events.

But why pick sneakers over high heels? The most obvious reason is comfort. There’s no other shoe that snuggles your feet softly yet securely. They are flat-soled so you maintain your balance with each step. They’re also light enough to give you control throughout the many motions your feet make.  They’re certainly more comfortable to wear compared to the usual high-heels that adorn the red carpet.

Then again, do you have to be a celebrity to show off your sneakers with your evening gown, party dress, or a business suit?  If there’s anything we can learn from the sneakers-wearing Hollywood stars, the answer would be no. As Stewart famously said, “It’s all about being yourself, keeping comfortable, and looking cool.”

Of course you can strut around in sneakers even when wearing a more casual, sporty outfit, but you have to have the confidence, the sense of style, and the right pair of sneakers. 

Converse has a wide range of styles, colors, and designs that are not just footwear. These sneakers have become means for self-expression, personal statements, and cool fashion accents. Converse’s range of styles is ideal for mixing and matching with all sorts of outfits.  Just be sure to show off your sense of play and adventure, and be yourself whether on the street or in a formal event.