5 Shoes I’m Wearing This Summer + Back To School Season

Summer is in full swing but I’ve already got back-to-school season on my mind. As you know, I’m a huge shoe lover and am constantly adding new pairs to my collection. Today I’m rounding up five pairs that I’m loving this summer and bringing with me into the school year. Because let’s be real, nothing beats a versatile, seasonless shoe!

While I’d usually be prepping for a school year on campus, this year I’m prepping for my semester abroad in Italy meaning comfort is key! Luckily, DSW has me covered with all the goods.

Platform Converse 

Converse have been my go-to sneaker for years now- I got a pair from my sister for my 15th birthday and the rest is history. When platform Converse first became trendy a few years ago, I instantly bought the high tops in both black and white, wearing them till the soles practically wore off. They were always my go-to whether it be to class or a frat party.

I decided it was time for a new pair, going for the low tops this time around. These have a more casual feel to them and look adorable with cuffed jeans which are my fav during the fall. I’m keeping things simple with this back-to-school outfit- reaching for one of my most worn Express tanks and a light linen button-up layered over top. 

This is an outfit I just know I’ll be wearing all fall long, even during my study abroad months! 

Outfit Details— tank: Express, top: SheIn, jeans: Express, shoes: DSW, purse: SheIn, necklaces: Gorjana, rings: Gorjana, bracelets: Gorjana, earrings: SheIn

High Top Reeboks 

It’s been a while since I added a pop of color to my shoe wardrobe. These high-top Reebok sneakers have a little bit of blue and green along the back and they were calling my name. I have tons of loungewear that pairs with these so I knew I’d get good use out of them. I’ve already worn these a handful of times and love them—they’ve got tons of cushion along the back! 

I’m keeping things casual with a matching bodysuit and one of my favorite sweat sets. This is one of my go-to, easy outfits for a work-from-home day or a chill night with friends.  

Outfit Details— bodysuit: Express, set: Boohoo, shoes: DSW, necklaces: Gorjana, rings: Gorjana, bracelets: Gorjana, earrings: SheIn

Heeled Espadrilles 

A little white dress will forever be my go-to. They work for class, sorority events, date nights, and more. I grabbed this cutie eyelet lace one from SheIn a few months ago and am still loving it. Those puff sleeves are just too cute. It has a beachy element to it that I just love.

In this case, I had to throw on straw accessories. If you know me you know I’m a sucker for raffia shoes. I’ve got a gazillion pairs already but what’s one more?! These Marc Fisher ones have a short platform that’s super manageable for everyday wear. They loop around the ankle elongating the legs too! I’ll definitely be bringing these on my European adventures this fall. With the matching straw bag, you just can’t go wrong!

Outfit Details— dress: SheIn, shoes: DSW, purse: Banana Republic, necklaces: Gorjana, rings: Gorjana, bracelets: Gorjana, earrings: SheIn

Hot Girl Walk Sneakers 

Activewear dresses have been my jam this season. I’m so glad that these are trending right now—not only are they super practical with the built-in shorts and phone pockets but they look so much cuter than your typical running shorts and sports bra. 

No hot girl walk would be complete without a comfy sneaker. I’ve been wearing New Balances for years now and finally upgraded to a new pair. My old ones were so dirty and beat up after thousands of miles walked in them- it was time. These are so comfortable offering lots of support. They come in a few different colors but I opted for the black with a gray backing. Adding my Lulu belt bag to hold all of my essentials- I bring these almost everywhere.  They rock!

Outfit Details— dress: Halara, sneakers: New Balance, bag: Lululemon, necklaces: Gorjana, rings: Gorjana, bracelets: Gorjana, earrings: SheIn

Chunky Pumas

While I do love my Converse, I wear them so much that I decided I needed to grab another pair of white sneakers so I could switch things up from time to time. These Puma sneakers are also platforms but they are about an inch higher than the Converse giving me tons of height. They have an edgier, more street style feel to them which I love. 

These are going to be awesome with sporty looks and loungewear but they also work with a basic bodysuit and denim shorts for this time of year. These are some of my most worn items right now- linking both of them as they are also on sale. Adding my Lulu fanny pack per usual to tie in the shoes. 

Outfit Details— bodysuit: Express, shorts: Express, shoes: Puma, bag: Lululemon, necklaces: Gorjana, rings: Gorjana, bracelets: Gorjana, earrings: SheIn

What kind of kicks are you currently rocking? I do have my eyes on a pair of Nike Blazers before heading off to Europe but I just can’t decide if I need another pair of high tops. If you have them, let me know what you think! In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed these five looks.

I cannot wait to get packing for Europe—time to start clothes shopping….

With love, McKenz

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