How to Style Vans Shoes for Maximum Impact

Okay, let’s get real for a second: Vans shoes are basically the fashion equivalent of comfort food. They’ve been around forever. They go with literally everything. Somehow, they keep reinventing themselves without ever losing that effortless “I didn’t even try” vibe.

Whether you’re lacing up a pair of Old Skools, you might be sliding into those Fast Times at Ridgemont High–approved chequerboard slip-ons. Alternatively, you could be hunting down a limited-edition collab (looking at you, Toy Story Bo Peep high-tops). Vans just gets it right every time.

A quick throwback (because history is adorable)

Vans kicked off in California in 1966, and honestly? They’ve never looked back. At first, they were all about skateboarders who needed grippy soles. The 80s chequerboard slip-ons emerged. Suddenly, everyone was wearing them, from skaters to high school kids to Hollywood stars. Fast forward to now, and they’re still the kind of sneaker you see everywhere from skateparks to Instagram feeds.

Collabs we’re still obsessed with

Here’s where Vans gets spicy. They’re not afraid to get weird, playful, or straight-up nostalgic with their collabs. Some faves:

• Some of their favourite collaborations include Toy Story – Woody Authentics, Buzz slip-ons, and the dreamy pink Bo Peep Sk8-Hi. Bo Peep Sk8- Hi. This Converse is the shoe we’d sell our soul for.
• Marvel: Shoes covered in comic book prints are so good, you might feel like a superhero.
• Harry Potter—because, of course, we needed Gryffindor on our feet.
• NASA – Space patches and cosmic coolness, no astronaut training required.

Each collab feels like a time capsule for our favourite fandoms. Wearing them is basically like screaming, “Yes, I still love Pixar, and I’m not sorry.”

Why we keep reaching for them

Here’s the thing: Vans aren’t just cool, they’re easy.

• They’re affordable (compared to, say, hyped-up sneaker drops that cost more than rent).
• They’re comfy enough to actually live in.
• They’re nostalgic; they make you feel like you’re sixteen again, skating around (or, let’s be honest, pretending to).
• They go with everything. Seriously. Dresses, baggy jeans, suits, and pajamas Okay, maybe not pyjamas, but you get the point.

Styling inspiration (also known as how to appear fashionable without putting in much effort)

• Old Skools + baggy jeans + tiny crop top → peak TikTok energy.
• Chequerboard slip-ons + sundress → picnic chic.
• Sk8-Hi + cargo pants → edgy streetwear goddess.
• Toy Story collabs + literally anything – you’re the main character, babe.

The verdict

Vans shoes are more than sneakers; they’re personality. They’re memories. They serve as evidence that certain items are timeless. And honestly? We hope they never do.

Whether you’re rocking your beat-up pair from high school or adding another collab to your collection, keep this in mind. Once a Vans girlie, always a Vans girlie.