I’ve loved the look of Vans checkerboard slip-ons for as long as I can remember—the bold print and slip on style are enough to make my ’90s baby and former Avril Lavigne fangirl heart swoon. However, since the sneakers are so unanimous with skater culture and I certainly cannot skateboard (that is way too much coordination for me, thank you very much), I was always hesitant to purchase a pair. But last summer I finally pushed all my worries aside, bought a pair of the checkered slip-ons, and haven’t looked back. I’ve realized these kicks are so much more versatile than I ever could have imagined, and I’ve noticed so many more people hopping on to the skate-inspired trend. Even if your style icon is as far from Tony Hawk as can be, I guarantee there’s a way to incorporate these shoes into your everyday look. Keep reading for nine surprising takes on the checkered Vans trend.
Stick to Basics to Make Your Vans the Star of the Show
The easiest way to dip into the checkered Vans trend is with the wardrobe OGs—a plain white tee and your favorite jeans. The simplicity of this ‘fit allows the Vans to be the statement piece without being overpowering.
Amp Up Your Summer Look With a Graphic Tee and Checkered Sneakers
Take it up a notch and pair your checkerboard slip-ons with a graphic tee. A colorful design makes it so the Vans aren’t the only focal point of your look. Add ripped jeans for a perfect casual summer day outfit.
Add Bold Slip Ons to a Mixed-Print Look
If you are all for making a statement, checkered Vans are a great shoe to add to an already bold look. This Community Member offset her rainbow stripes with the black and white kicks, but matched them to her gingham pants for an outfit that’s both unexpected and exciting.
Keep it Chic with Skater Shoes and Soft Neutrals
Even fashion lovers who typically opt for sophisticated silhouette can incorporate Vans into their daily #OOTD. Try adding the skater-inspired sneakers to a dreamy palette of neutrals and blush tones to create an outfit that’s chic with a side of sporty.
Pair Sporty Kicks with Another Bold Summer Trend
If you’re the person who all your friends go to to learn what’s up and coming, this Vans look is for you. Pair another popular style (this Community Member chose camo) with your slip-ons to mix and match trends like the fashion queen that you are.
Make a Statement in Double Checker Print
Ready to fully embrace the skater style trend? Go for it by wearing double checker prints. Checks on checks look great when the scale of the prints vary in size, like the smaller print this Community Member’s crop top compared to the bold grain of her Vans.
Pair Your Vans with an Unexpected Summer Color
Surprisingly enough, one of my favorite colors to wear with my Vans is bright yellow. I love how this Community Member paired yellow denim cutoffs with an otherwise black outfit to keep her shorts from being too overpowering. Also, I’m obsessed with the crew socks and Vans combo—it’s such a great way to make sure your kicks really pop.
Wear Slip-Ons With Double Denim For An Outfit That Works With Any Personal Style
No matter your personal style, denim is a wardrobe essential fabric so mixing washes or wearing multiple jean pieces can be a no-brainer. Thanks to this Community Member, I recently discovered just how good double denim looks with checkered Vans. Pair head-to-toe denim with skater-inspired shoes for an easy summer look that anyone can recreate in their own way.
Go For A Chill Vibe By Wearing Vans With Other Laid-Back Pieces
Emulate the laid-back vibe of checkered Vans with an equally chill ‘fit. Elevated basic staples like Bermuda shorts and a rugby tee make for a comfortable look but still look fashion-forward when paired with a structured bag and statement sunnies.
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Opening Image by Gabrielle Scherer.
