Sneaker Savvy

Stylistically speaking, diversity in shoes is remarkable. Effectively what shoe you choose has become a crucial aspect of any well-thought out ensemble. History unsurprisingly dictates that shoes have always been important to the stylish individual (think Marie-Antoinette). Not only do they protect and offer emotional and physical comfort, beautiful shoes are considered objects d’art. Their transitioning implications have ensured that now, more than ever, what you wear on your feet defines who you are. For example a beautifully fitted Tod’s loafer subtly conveys a certain jet-set eased attitude whilst a pair of chunky Prada Linea Rossa’s screams skipper on a yacht. Although these stereotypes often and conveniently prove true, what typecast exists for a reinvented, re-released 1980ies Nike high-top sneaker? Essentially none, and that’s why these shoes are so fascinating.

Importantly, when shopping for these shoes constantly bear your own wardrobe in mind. It is easy to be carried away by the stars, patterns and furry textures that ornament. Pure conviction is necessary to rock the sneaker. To avoid overkill, make your shoe act as the focal point of your outfit. Wear simple tones and shapes that lead the eye to the foot. Tucking your pants into the high top is a pre-requisite to success, as the lip of the shoe should always be on display.

One of Nike’s most impressive creations has to be the ‘Ferris Bueller’ Dunk SB (nike.com). Inspired by the leather coat worn by Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller’s Day Out, this shoe combines leopard print with camoflage tones to create the mother of all sneakers. Alternatively create a unique shoe with NikeID (offered in various Nike stores). This service enables you to place your initials on the high-tops, in essence complementing any monogrammed Goyard tote.

To constantly be in the know regarding sneakers, check out sneakerfreaker.com. This is the go-to website for anyone looking to update and perfect the urban-street look. Essentially the site provides information concerning which shoes to purchase in order to establish a well-rounded collection. Currently the Supra Skytops created exclusively for Chad Muska are must-haves. These electric blue sneakers (also available in yellow) combine suede and blue zebra print making for a truly bold statement. For that added bounce in your step, make sure to grill the shop assistant about future releases, or check out New Zealand’s premier street store for insider tips (loadednz.com).

To be honest, sneakers had never really interested me. It was only in Wellington (where sporting the latest New Balance gives the wearer a certain degree of street-cred) that I discovered how incredibly diverse and attention grabbing these shoes truly are. It is fair to say that in St. Andrews seeing a hot pair of high-tops is rare. This most probably has something to do with the whole English countryside-chic paradigm. So why not discard the Hunter boots and mix it up by pairing your Barbour or Belstaff wax with what can only be described as crazazy glitter Jordan’s? I’m confident you’ll discover the grass is greener.