Sneakers That Are Cool Enough For The Office

Forget what you've heard. Wearing sneakers to work isn't a total fashion faux pas. In fact, there are many stylish athletic shoes out there that can be appropriate for even the stuffiest of dress codes. And thank goodness, since these types of kicks are all the rage for 2016. To make sure your sneaks are solid for the workplace, pick pairs that offer a sleek design or interesting color palette that sets them apart from day-to-day gym wear. This way your shoes will look less like you're headed to spin class, and more like you're the budding professional that you are.

So, wearing sneakers to work doesn't mean donning your dingy old tennis shoes in the boardroom. In fact, if your shoes have stains, scuff marks, or torn fabric, it's best to leave those at home with your yoga mat. Sneakers that are appropriate for the office are ones that look both professional and cool, while still being comfortable. These shoes often offer intricate detailing or a polished design that elevates their style from the traditional gym shoe. So, go ahead, and ditch your heels tomorrow. You're feet will absolutely thank you for it. Wondering which pairs would be best for the office? Here are 13 pairs of sneakers that are perfect for wearing to work.

1. Black High Tops

Aldo Secco Sneakers, $90, Aldo Shoes

From the mixed media prints to the matte black foundation, this shoe fits in with even the stuffiest of dress code policies.

2. White Leather Kicks

Vans Leather SK8-HI Slim Zip, $80, Vans

Personally, I love how chic and crisp these shoes are. It's a very effortless style that screams, "I'm a professional adult" — while still be a sneaker.

3. Quilted Loafers

Steve Madden Ecentrcqs, $60, Zappos

Upgrade your traditional slide-on sneakers to these fashionable quilted leather flats.

4. Black & White Sneakers

PUMA Eskiva Low, $45, Shoe Metro

These lightweight PUMA sneakers are exactly what you need after a long week in heels.

5. Sneakers With Leather Details

Vans Era 59, $55, Zappos

Even a tiny touch of leather elevates a sneaker to office-level stylishness.

6. Animal Print Keds

Keds Champion Animal, $33, Shoe Metro

Because leopard print is always appropriate.

7. Studded High Tops

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Studded, $100, YCMC

Be the baddest on the block (or in the cubicle) with these studded black sneakers.

8. Colorful Animal Print Sneakers

Dr. Martens Aldgate 3-Eye Shoe, $30, 6 PM

Being quirky has never looked so chic.

9. White Leather Low Tops

Converse All Star Fulton Leather Sneakers, $56, Jet

Because white leather sneakers are rarely a bad idea.

10. Elastic Sneakers

Aldo Ogoki Sneakers, $36, Aldo Shoes

How cool are these shoes?! This design is unlike anything I've ever seen.

11. Maroon & Gold Kicks

Vans Old Skool, $70, Overstock

Between their classic style and gorgeous color combination, these sneakers are sure to be your new work day BFF.

12. Navy Blue Classics

620 New Balance, $75, New Balance

Isn't this color just so chic?

13. Marble Sneakers

Esplar Leather Sneaker, $120, Bandier

Literally no one could argue that marble isn't fancy enough for the office. Time to get your comfy on.

Images: Courtesy of Brands