Think high tops are just for autumn and winter? Think again! These versatile kicks can be your ultimate style companion all summer long. From backyard barbecues to city strolls and music festivals, high tops offer a unique blend of comfort, support, and undeniable cool. This guide will show you how to rock them with all your favorite summer outfits and elevate your style game in the heat.
What are the Must-Have High Top Sneaker Styles This Summer?
Before we dive into styling, let’s talk about the sneakers themselves. The right pair of high tops can make or break your summer look. This season is all about comfort, personality, and a touch of conscious style. Here’s what to look for:
Classic Canvas High Tops A Summer Staple
There’s a reason classic canvas high tops never go out of style. They are the quintessential summer sneaker. Canvas is lightweight, breathable, and allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cooler than heavier materials like leather. As we’ve explored before, there are many benefits of canvas shoes over leather, especially when the temperature rises. They’re durable enough for any adventure and provide that effortlessly cool aesthetic that pairs with literally anything.
Bold Colors & Prints for Making a Statement
Summer is the season of expression, so why should your feet be boring? Ditch the neutral tones and embrace high tops in vibrant colors like sunny yellow, ocean blue, or electric pink. Better yet, let your sneakers tell a story with a unique pattern. Graphic sneakers are a dominant force in streetwear, allowing you to showcase your passions, from intricate floral designs to bold abstract art. This is where custom kicks truly shine, giving you a one-of-a-kind piece that nobody else has.
Sustainable High Tops Eco-Friendly Fashion
As we become more mindful consumers, fashion is following suit. Many brands, including us at Myshopmen.com, are embracing eco-friendly materials. Look for high tops made from recycled canvas, organic cotton, and other sustainable sources. You get the same great style and comfort while making a positive impact on the planet. It’s a win-win that looks and feels good.
How Do I Style High Top Sneakers with Shorts for Summer?
This is the ultimate summer combo, but getting the proportions right is key to looking sharp. High tops can sometimes visually shorten the leg, but with a few simple tricks, you can create a balanced and flattering silhouette that screams summer cool.
The Perfect Shorts Length to Compliment Your Kicks
To avoid a stumpy look, opt for shorts that hit at the mid-thigh or a few inches above the knee. This shows a little more leg, creating a visual balance with the higher cut of the sneaker. Whether you’re rocking denim cut-offs, tailored chino shorts, or athletic shorts, this rule of thumb will keep your proportions in check.
Color Coordination Shorts & Sneaker Harmony
Have fun with your colors! If you’re wearing statement-making, custom-printed high tops, let them be the star of the show by pairing them with shorts in a neutral color like khaki, black, or classic blue denim. For a bolder, more coordinated look, try matching a color from your sneaker’s design to your shorts or top. A monochrome look—like all-black or all-white—is also incredibly chic and modern.
Socks or No Socks? A Summer High Top Dilemma
This is a hot topic! Here are your options:
- No-Show Socks: For a clean, bare-ankle look that’s perfect for peak summer heat. This is the best way to get that “sockless” vibe without the sweat.
- Crew Socks: For a retro, skate-inspired look. Pushing them down for a “slouchy” effect or pulling them up high adds a deliberate stylistic touch that’s very on-trend.
- Ankle Socks: A safe, practical middle ground that keeps your feet comfortable without making a huge style statement.
Whichever you choose, make sure they are breathable, moisture-wicking materials like cotton to keep your feet comfortable and dry.
Can I Wear High Top Sneakers with Dresses or Skirts in Summer?
Absolutely! The contrast between a traditionally feminine dress or skirt and a pair of casual high tops creates a dynamic and modern look. It’s the perfect blend of edgy and sweet, making your outfit instantly more interesting and practical for a day on your feet.
Casual Day Outfits: High Tops and Flowy Dresses
A simple sundress, a breezy midi, or a long, flowy maxi dress paired with a clean pair of canvas high tops is peak summer comfort. This combination is ideal for farmers’ market runs, casual brunch dates, or exploring a new city. It says, “I’m stylish but also ready for anything.”
Edgy Evening Look: High Tops and Mini Skirts
Ready to turn some heads? Pair your favorite graphic high tops with a denim, corduroy, or even a faux-leather mini skirt. This look has a youthful, rebellious energy that’s perfect for concerts, evening hangouts, or a fun date night. The high tops keep the outfit grounded and casual, preventing it from feeling too formal.
Accessorizing Your Dress and High Top Combo
The right accessories tie it all together. Throw a denim jacket over your dress for cooler evenings. A simple crossbody bag keeps your hands free and complements the casual vibe of the sneakers. Finish the look with a pair of classic sunglasses and some simple jewelry for a polished yet relaxed outfit.
What Are Some Cool Outfit Ideas for High Tops and Jeans in the Summer?
Jeans and high tops are a match made in heaven. But for summer, you need to adapt this classic combo for the heat. It’s all about choosing lightweight fabrics and using smart styling to show off your footwear.
The Classic T-Shirt and Jeans Combo with High Tops
You can’t go wrong with a classic. Pair your high tops with lightweight denim—think materials with a bit of stretch or a looser fit. A simple, well-fitting t-shirt in white, black, or grey completes this timeless look. It’s simple, effective, and always cool.
Rolling Up Your Jeans to Show Off Your Sneakers
This is the most important styling trick for wearing high tops with jeans. Cuff or roll the hem of your jeans to create a small gap of skin between the bottom of the pants and the top of the sneaker. This simple move draws attention to your awesome shoes and prevents your silhouette from looking frumpy. For more ideas on this combo, check out our guide to styling high tops with jeans.
Experimenting with Different Jean Washes
The wash of your denim can completely change the mood of your outfit.
- Light-Wash Denim: Feels inherently summery and pairs beautifully with white or pastel high tops.
- White Denim: Creates a crisp, clean look. This is the perfect canvas to make a pair of colorful sneakers pop.
- Black Denim: Offers an edgier, rock-and-roll vibe. Pair them with graphic sneakers for a bold look, or find ideas in our guide on the best sneakers for black jeans.
Where Can I Find the Best Custom High Top Sneakers for Summer?
Ready to find your perfect summer pair? Standard, off-the-shelf sneakers are great, but custom-designed high tops take your style and self-expression to the next level.
Checking Myshopmen’s High Top Selection
At Myshopmen.com, we specialize in helping you create footwear that’s as unique as you are. We offer a vast library of designs from independent artists all over the world, printed on high-quality, comfortable high tops built for all-day wear. Browse our full collection of high top sneakers and find a design that speaks to you!
Consider Your Design Style and Comfort Preferences
Think about what you love. Are you a space fanatic who would love a pair of galaxy print sneakers? Or maybe you’re a devoted pet parent who needs some amazing cat and dog-themed shoes. Your sneakers are a canvas for your personality. Choose a design that brings you joy and a style that offers the comfort and support you need for your summer activities.
How long do customs usually take to arrive?
Because every pair is printed on-demand just for you, it takes a little time to create and ship them. Production and shipping times can vary, but it’s always a good idea to order a few weeks in advance, especially if you have a specific event like a vacation, festival, or birthday in mind. This ensures your custom kicks arrive right on time to complete your perfect summer look.
People Also Ask
Are high tops comfortable for summer weather?
Absolutely! The key is to choose the right material. Canvas high tops are breathable and lightweight, making them perfect for warmer days. Paired with moisture-wicking socks, they can be just as comfortable as any other summer shoe, but with more ankle support and style.
What kind of socks should I wear with high top sneakers in the summer?
You have a few great options. No-show socks give you a clean, sockless look which is perfect for shorts. Ankle socks are a practical choice for comfort. For a more retro or skater vibe, you can wear crew socks, either pulled up or scrunched down, which works especially well with shorts and skirts.
Can you wear high tops with a swimsuit or to the beach?
While high tops aren’t ideal for getting sandy or wet right at the shoreline, they’re a fantastic choice for the overall beach-day look. They’re perfect for wearing to and from the beach, on the boardwalk, or at a beachside cafe. Pair them with denim shorts over your swimsuit for an effortlessly cool, coastal style.
Are high tops still trendy for summer 2024?
Yes, high tops are a timeless sneaker style that remains firmly on-trend for summer 2024. Their versatility allows them to be styled with everything from athletic wear to casual dresses. This summer, expect to see them in bold new colors and with unique custom prints, making them a staple for self-expression.
How do you prevent high tops from smelling in the summer?
To keep your high tops fresh in the summer heat, always wear them with clean, moisture-wicking socks to absorb sweat. Don’t wear the same pair two days in a row; let them air out completely. You can also use shoe deodorizer balls or a sprinkle of baking soda inside them overnight to absorb odors. Regular cleaning is also essential; learn how to clean printed canvas shoes safely to keep them looking and smelling fresh.
What are some durable high top sneaker materials for summer wear?
Canvas is the king of summer materials for high tops. It’s durable, breathable, and easy to clean. Look for high-quality canvas that can withstand walking, festivals, and all your summer adventures. Some brands also offer innovative, lightweight synthetic materials designed for warm-weather comfort and longevity.
