In 2024, you don’t need to sacrifice style for comfort. If you don’t believe us, just take a look at the abundance of dress sneakers out there today (and the celebrities that have been caught wearing them). Today’s footwear brands are elevating the everyday style to great effect, making sneakers the shoe of choice for everything from store trips to special occasions.
All this to say, you can hit your 10k steps goal while sporting a chic pair of shoes. And if you’re looking for the perfect sneakers to do that in, you’ve come to the right place—but first, let’s talk about what defines dress sneakers.
What Features Make Up A Dress Sneaker?
Dress sneakers come in a variety of styles, from loafers and slip-ons to classic lace-up trainers. Generally, what makes dress sneakers special is the material. While your typical pair of casual sneakers might be made from canvas or a synthetic material like polyester, dress sneakers are usually made from leather or suede.
On top of this upgrade, most dress sneakers are constructed with comfort top of mind—we’re talking fancy, contoured footbeds and tough outer soles that can handle a cobblestone path. This isn’t always the case when it comes to casual shoes, which often induce blisters, or worse, plantar fasciitis.
Sounds great, right? Well, it gets even better, because we’ve compiled a list of the internet’s 10 best dress sneakers for women.
How We Found The Best Women’s Dress Sneakers
You know how this works, but if you don’t, here’s a refresher: We use our data-powered ranking algorithm to curate our Top 10 lists. This tool factors in details from reviews, best-seller lists, and social media to determine which products are worth recommending to our readers. Ready to see which dress sneakers were deemed top-of-the-line? If so, grab your wallet and scroll on.
September 17, 2024
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Vionic Kensley Loafer
Overall Score
4.25
10
Vionic Kensley Loafer
4.12
2736 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lugsole Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
The Kensley Loafer looks like a dress shoe but feels like an everyday sneaker. With a chunky lug outer sole and a patent leather upper, this pair strikes the perfect balance between casual and formal. Just make sure to plan a break-in period to get used to Vionic's unique form of orthotic support.
GOOD TO KNOW
In addition to the patent leather pair seen here, you can snag these dress sneakers in 10 other colors and materials.
More Colors
Wolf And Shepherd Cruise Lace-Up
Overall Score
4.25
09
Wolf And Shepherd Cruise Lace-Up
4.7
39 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Leather Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Sleek and simple, Wolf And Shepherd's Cruise Lace-Up Sneaker is defined by its full-grain Italian leather upper. However, it's hiding a comfortable little secret: a memory foam footbed.
GOOD TO KNOW
Though it looks smooth as can be, the outer sole on these dress sneakers is made from high-traction, thermal rubber. One reviewer says she wore these for five days in France and was comfortable the entire trip.
More Colors
Naturalizer Adiline Loafer
Overall Score
4.3
08
Naturalizer Adiline Loafer
4.05
1402 User Reviews
3.1
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Heeled Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Naturalizer is known for its leather-forward footwear, and the Adiline Loafer puts the material to great use. With a contour cushioned footbed and a minor platform (.75"), these stylish sneakers are sure to keep you on your toes—in a good way.
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"As I approach 60, I have been phasing out all heels except for kitten and block heels. My shoe shopping is now focused on finding chic, stylish, and comfortable flats to wear every day. These loafers are perfect; you can walk all day and they transition to night so well (and they look better than sneakers)."
More Colors
Thursday Boot Company Premier Low Top
Overall Score
4.3
07
Thursday Boot Company Premier Low Top
4.7
1743 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Low-Top Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
At first glance, the Premier Low Top sneakers look like your everyday pair of trainers. However, this handcrafted pair takes the classic sneaker look to a new level with a shock-absorbent performance footbed and a buttery-soft leather upper.
GOOD TO KNOW
Thursday Boot Company makes dress sneakers for women and men, and the Premier Low Top style is available in sizes for both genders.
More Colors
Birdies The Swift
Overall Score
4.35
06
Birdies The Swift
4.15
5569 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Slip-On Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Slip-on sneakers have never looked this good. The Swift from Birdies is a streetwear-inspired style built with all of the brand's best design features like an antibacterial, shock-absorbing insole and a soft, flexible heel that prevents blisters. Grab them in gold or black leather.
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"I have been waiting for the Gold Swift to restock for over a year, and I'm thrilled to finally have them. They are the cutest gold sneakers ever, and I really love the new design. Such a great pair of shoes that can be dressed up or down for any occasion!"
More Colors
M.Gemi The Cerchio
Overall Score
4.35
05
M.Gemi The Cerchio
4.7
404 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Woven Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Nothing says dress sneakers like a handwoven Italian Nappa leather upper. The Cerchio slip-ons elevate everyone's favorite style into a pair of shoes that could easily complement a cocktail dress or suit. Plus, the sporty, lightweight rubber outer sole means these will handle travel days with ease.
GOOD TO KNOW
These stylish sneakers are made in a family-owned and -operated workshop in Tuscany, Italy.
More Colors
Cole Haan ØriginalGrand Platform Wingtip Oxfords
Overall Score
4.4
04
Cole Haan ØriginalGrand Platform Wingtip Oxfords
4.4
802 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Oxford Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Combine the classiness of a leather wingtip derby shoe with the comfort of a platform sneaker, and you've got the ØriginalGrand Oxfords. And here's something cool: The sole of these sneakers is made from Cole Haan's FlowerFoam, which is comprised of at least 25% natural dandelion rubber.
GOOD TO KNOW
Cole Haan knows how to class up a sneaker—several of the brand's styles have been featured on our lists of the best oxfords and loafers.
More Colors
Vince Suede Warren Sneaker
Overall Score
4.45
03
Vince Suede Warren Sneaker
4.4
352 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Platform Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
No matter the occasion, Vince's Suede Warren Sneaker is ready to step out with you. Described as "street-chic" by Nordstrom, this slip-on style combines an imported suede leather upper with a bold platform sole.
GOOD TO KNOW
If you're not familiar with Vince, the brand is a California-founded fashion company with designs that celebrate materials like plush cashmere and buttery leather.
More Colors
Vionic Uptown Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
02
Vionic Uptown Loafer
4.59
4198 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Loafer Dress Sneakers For Women
THE STYLE
Vionic's Uptown Loafer is made for long walks around town. With a springy rubber outer sole and a footbed that features the brand's orthotic technology, this style certainly prioritizes comfort. But it's also stylish, with a bridge-topped leather (or suede) upper that looks good in all 18 colors it's available in.
GOOD TO KNOW
A handful of Nordstrom shoppers have complained about the fit of this style. Specifically, they say that it runs slightly large. We suggest referencing reviews and the size chart to find your perfect fit.
More Colors
Cole Haan GrandPrø Topspin Sneaker
Overall Score
4.8
01
Cole Haan GrandPrø Topspin Sneaker
4.6
3245 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dress Sneakers For Women Overall
THE STYLE
Court sneakers that can handle date night? Yes, please. Cole Haan's GrandPrø Topspin Sneaker is a best-selling style that dresses up the classic trainer look with premium leather. Did we mention that the men's version of these dress sneakers landed on our list of the best office sneakers?
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"My husband bought these first. I had to get a pair, and they are gorgeous but the delicious cushion that they put in these shoes is beyond compare. Great travel shoes; you can dress them up or dress them down."
More Colors
The Latest
From Our Partners