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How to Wear & Style Canvas Shoes for Women

Canvas shoes are a footwear staple for most women. But is there a right way to wear or style them? Not at all. In fact, there are dozens of ways to wear and style canvas shoes as a woman. From casual to formal to athleisure, they can be styled in countless ways to suit your personal style. But it all starts with the perfect shoe for you…

Choosing the Right Canvas Shoes

When it comes to choosing the right canvas shoes for women, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect pair:

 - Comfort: Always choose footwear that offers ample arch support and cushioning to ensure maximum comfort. Try them on in the store or when they arrive at your home, and walk around to make sure they fit well and don't cause any discomfort.

 - Size and Fit: Most canvas shoes come in standard sizes & fits. But even so, it's important to find the right fit for your feet. Try on different sizes and widths to find the perfect match. Many canvas shoes tend to stretch over time (usually after months of wear), so keep that in mind when selecting the size.

 - Style and Design: Canvas is versatile. From classic lace-ups to slip-on sneakers, consider your personal style when choosing the design. Think about whether you prefer a plain canvas or one with patterns, prints, or embellishments.

 - Durability: Not all canvas is constructed the same. Check the stitching and overall build quality to ensure they will withstand regular wear and tear. Hemp & cotton-based canvas tend to be the strongest materials.

 - Versatility: You’re going to want to wear these shoes with more than one outfit, so keep that in mind. If you’re starting with a single pair, opt for neutral colors like white, black, or navy – they pair with everything.

Remember, the right canvas shoes should not only look good but also provide comfort and durability for long-lasting wear. Take your time to find the perfect pair that ticks all the boxes and suits your personal style preferences.

How to Style with Casual & Everyday Outfits

There are dozens of ways to style canvas shoes as a woman; here are some of the most common outfit combinations:

With Jeans

Canvas shoes and jeans make a perfect pairing for a casual and laid-back look. Here are a few ways to style them together:
 

Classic Combo: Pair your canvas shoes with a basic white t-shirt and your favorite pair of jeans. Roll up the cuffs slightly to show off your shoes and add a touch of casual flair.
 

Denim on Denim: For a trendy and denim-focused outfit, try pairing them with a denim jacket or chambray shirt. Opt for different shades of denim to create contrast and add interest to your look.
 

Crop it Up: If you're a fan of cropped jeans, show off your lower leg by pairing them with high-top canvas shoes for a cool and edgy vibe.

With Dressier Outfits

Canvas isn’t just casual. You can easily dress them up with skirts, dresses, and blazers for work and formal events. Here are some ideas:

Dresses and Skirts: Pair a flowy summer dress or a midi skirt with canvas slip-on sneakers for a chic and comfortable ensemble. The contrast between the feminine silhouette and the casual shoes adds a modern twist to your outfit.

Blazers and Trousers: Create a stylish juxtaposition by pairing tailored trousers or a blazer with canvas sneakers. This combination strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual, making it ideal for a laid-back office look or a weekend brunch.

Accessorize: A bold handbag, a stylish belt, or some eye-catching jewelry can instantly dress up your look and make it more polished.
 

Remember, the key to styling canvas sneaker with casual and everyday outfits is to embrace their versatility and mix and match them with different clothing pieces. Experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to create unique and personalized looks that reflect your personal style.

Sporty & Athleisure Looks

Sporty and athleisure looks are all about combining comfort and style, which is what canvas sneakers are all about. Here are some ideas on how to rock sporty and athleisure looks

Putting Together an Athleisure Outfit

Athleisure outfits are a fusion of athletic wear and casual clothing, creating a stylish and comfortable look. Here are our best tips for a stylish athleisure fit:


Leggings or Joggers: Start with a pair of comfortable leggings or joggers in a solid color or with a subtle pattern. This will be your go-to outfit for quick coffee runs and weekend errands.

Sports Bra or Crop Top: Pair your leggings or joggers with a sports bra or a crop top for a sporty and trendy look. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Layer with a Hoodie or Sweatshirt: Throw on a hoodie or sweatshirt over your sports bra or crop top to keep yourself cozy during the chillier seasons. Choose a relaxed, oversized fit and play with different colors or graphic prints to add visual interest.

Accessorize with a Baseball Cap or Beanie: Complete your athleisure look with a baseball cap or beanie to add a sporty touch.

Sporty Chic

If you want to take your sporty canvas shoe look up a notch, incorporate elements of chic and sophistication into your outfit with one or more of the following ideas: 

Tailored Joggers or Track Pants: Swap out your regular joggers for a pair of tailored joggers or track pants. These have a more structured and polished look, making them suitable for a sporty chic ensemble.

Structured Top: Pair your joggers or track pants with a structured top like a button-up shirt or a tailored blouse. This contrast between the relaxed bottoms and the more tailored top adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
 

Blazer or Leather Jacket: Throw on a blazer or a leather jacket over your structured top to elevate your sporty chic look for a stylish contrast with your footwear.

Accessorize with Statement Jewelry: Add a touch of glam to your sporty chic outfit by accessorizing with statement jewelry. A chunky necklace, oversized earrings, or a stack of bracelets can instantly elevate your look and make it more stylish.
 

Sporty and athleisure looks with canvas shoes allow you to embrace comfort and style simultaneously. Experiment with different combinations and have fun creating your own sporty chic outfits that reflect your personal style.

Summer & Vacation Outfits

When it comes to summer and vacation outfits, canvas shoes are a must-have staple. They’re lightweight and breathable, perfect for long walks in busy cities and exploring new destinations.

Beach & Poolside Attire

Canvas shoes can be a great addition to your beach or poolside ensemble. Here are a few ways to incorporate them into your summer looks:

Flip-Flops Alternative: If you prefer more coverage and support than traditional flip-flops, opt for canvas slip-on sneakers or espadrilles. They’re far more comfortable and protective, especially if you’re going to be on your feet all day.

Pair with Swimsuits: For a laid-back beach or poolside look, pair your canvas shoes with your favorite swimsuit. Whether it's a one-piece or a bikini, canvas shoes add a casual and cool vibe to your beachwear. Throw on a cover-up if you need to head into a restaurant or local shop.

Traveling in Style

When it comes to traveling, comfort is key. However, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. Canvas shoes are the perfect travel companion:

Versatile Neutral Colors: Choose neutral colors like white, beige, or navy. These can easily be paired with different outfits and won't clash with your travel wardrobe.

Casual Dresses or Jumpsuits: Pair with comfortable and casual summer dresses or jumpsuits. This combination creates a chic and effortless look while keeping you comfortable during your travels.

Layer with Lightweight Jackets or Cardigans: Depending on the weather, layer your outfit with a lightweight jacket or cardigan. This adds versatility to your look and ensures you're prepared for any temperature changes during your trip.

Functional Accessories: Complete your travel outfit with functional accessories like a crossbody bag, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. These not only add style but also provide practicality and protection during your travels.

You should always prioritize comfort over style, at least when traveling and wearing the same shoes for hours at a time. When you land at your tropical destination, kick off your shoes and slip into a relaxing, yet comfortable pair of sandals.

Other Styling Tips & Tricks

We’ve covered nearly 20 different styling tips for canvas shoes, but there’s still a few things we haven’t covered yet.

Socks or No Socks?

The battle of socks vs. no socks with canvas shoes doesn’t have to be one or the other. In fact, you have a few options:

No-Show Socks: If you prefer the comfort and hygiene of wearing socks but don't want them to be visible, opt for no-show socks. They’ll remain hidden inside your shoes while providing a barrier between your feet and the shoes.

Ankle Socks: For a sportier look, you can wear ankle socks that peek out slightly above the top of your canvas shoes. This adds a casual and youthful touch to your outfit.
 

Sockless: Going sockless is a popular choice for a casual and effortless look. Keep in mind that wearing canvas shoes without socks may lead to odor or discomfort, so make sure to clean and air out your shoes regularly.

Mix and Match Colors

Neutral shoes are a safe bet; but you don’t always have to play it safe. Don't be afraid to play with color when styling your canvas shoes. Here are some ideas to help you create visually appealing and coordinated outfits:

Monochromatic: Match your outfit to your shoes for a monochromatic look that’s cohesive, sleek, and stands out.

Color Blocking: Experiment with color blocking by pairing canvas shoes in a contrasting color to your outfit. This adds a pop of color and visual interest to your overall look.

Neutral with a Pop: If you're wearing a neutral outfit, such as all-black or denim, add a pair of bright-colored canvas sneakers to make a statement and turn heads.


Canvas shoes have plenty of style & range, especially for women. They can be worn for casual looks, athleisure ensembles, and summer outfits. And the best part is, they’ll be comfortable & durable, so you won’t have to swap them out every season. Ready to add a new pair of canvas shoes to your daily style?