Wearing sneakers to Christmas dinners and meetings is no longer a faux pas. Today’s most elegant pairs combine clean lines, premium materials and refined color palettes, so they work perfectly with blazers, knitwear, dresses or tailored trousers. Choosing the right model lets you keep all the comfort and personality of sneakers while still looking polished and appropriate for festive, semi-formal occasions.
Below are four stylish options for men and four for women that balance sophistication and comfort for this Christmas season.
Elegant sneakers for men
Before getting into specific models, it’s worth thinking about what makes a men’s sneaker look “dressy”. Neutral or deep tones, quality leather or suede, and simple, well-finished panels always read more elegant than loud performance meshes or neon colors. Pair these with slim or straight trousers, an Oxford shirt and a wool coat or blazer, and you have a look that feels modern and relaxed but still smart enough for dinners, office gatherings and family events.
Nike SB Dunk Low City of Cinema
The Nike SB Dunk Low City of Cinema is a great choice for men who want a sneaker with character that still works in a smart outfit. Its low‑top profile and carefully layered materials give it a premium feel, while the muted, movie‑inspired palette keeps it from clashing with formal pieces. With dark tones, textured overlays and subtle storytelling details, it looks particularly good with black jeans or tailored chinos and a dark overshirt.
Comfort-wise, the SB Dunk line adds extra padding and cushioning underfoot, making it a solid option for long evenings spent on your feet at dinners, parties or Christmas markets. The flat sole keeps the silhouette grounded and casual, but the rich finishes and thoughtful color blocking ensure it doesn’t feel like a regular skate shoe when paired with a smart coat or knitwear.
adidas Samba OG Cream White Sand Strata
The adidas Samba OG in Cream White Sand Strata is almost made for elegant casual looks. Its slim, low‑profile silhouette and classic three‑stripe design have a timeless appeal that works beautifully with wool trousers or dark denim. The cream upper and sand accents offer a soft, refined color mix that feels less sporty than a typical white trainer, lending itself well to minimalist Christmas outfits.
Leather construction and a traditional gum sole add a heritage touch, making the shoe look more like a dressy terrace sneaker than a gym shoe. Wear it with beige chinos, a white shirt and a dark cardigan for relaxed family dinners, or with a navy suit minus tie for a creative office gathering. It’s versatile, understated and effortlessly stylish.
New Balance Allerdale MiUK Chocolate Brown
The New Balance Allerdale MiUK in Chocolate Brown leans strongly into dressy territory thanks to its rich color and premium craftsmanship. Made in the UK with high‑quality suede or leather, it has a structured, polished upper that pairs easily with tailored pieces. The deep brown tones feel luxurious and seasonal, echoing winter palettes and working well with grey, navy or earthy outfits.
Underfoot, you still get New Balance comfort—plenty of cushioning and a supportive midsole that makes long evenings in restaurants or bars more pleasant. This model looks great with wool trousers, a roll‑neck sweater and an overcoat, giving you an elevated sneaker option that doesn’t look out of place next to dress shoes.
Puma Suede Moccasin Brandy Chocotart
The Puma Suede Moccasin in Brandy Chocotart is an elegant twist on a street classic. The moccasin-inspired details and luxurious suede give it a more refined, handcrafted vibe than a standard Puma Suede. The warm brandy and chocolate tones feel perfect for Christmas, pairing nicely with brown belts, watches and leather accessories.
Styling-wise, this sneaker works with dark denim, corduroy or even dressier chinos. The moc-style stitching and minimalist branding let it sit comfortably under a smart coat or blazer without looking too sporty. It’s an ideal choice for men who like a slightly vintage, relaxed elegance that still feels dressed up enough for festive dinners.
Elegant sneakers for women
For women, elegant sneakers for Christmas outfits often mix clean shapes with subtle details—metallic touches, soft neutrals, animal prints or sculpted soles. These pairs can be styled with midi dresses, tailored trousers, satin skirts or wide-leg pants to create looks that are chic but comfortable enough to last through long evenings, office parties, or family celebrations.
Nike Air Force 1 Low LX White Pendant
The Nike Air Force 1 Low LX White Pendant takes the iconic AF1 shape and adds elevated details that make it more suitable for festive occasions. The crisp white leather upper keeps things clean and classic, while refined accents and pendant-style embellishments add a touch of jewelry-like luxury. This combination makes the shoe ideal for pairing with monochrome outfits or soft knit dresses.
Thanks to its chunky sole and padded build, the AF1 Low LX remains comfortable even after hours of standing or walking between events. Wear it with a midi skirt and blazer, or with tailored trousers and a silky blouse to balance its sporty roots with a polished finish. The all‑white base also reflects light nicely, feeling fresh against Christmas lights and decor.
adidas Campus 00s Leopard Black
The adidas Campus 00s Leopard Black brings a bold, fashion-forward edge to elegant holiday looks. Its slightly chunky 00s-inspired silhouette feels modern, while the black base and leopard accents add a touch of glamour and personality. This is the perfect sneaker if you want your footwear to be the focal point of your outfit.
Pair it with all‑black ensembles—think black wide-leg trousers and a fitted turtleneck—or with a simple slip dress and leather jacket. The leopard pattern becomes an accessory in itself, replacing the need for loud jewelry. Despite its statement look, the Campus 00s remains comfortable enough for nights out, with a sturdy sole and supportive upper.
New Balance 327 Moonbeam Classic Burgundy
The New Balance 327 in Moonbeam Classic Burgundy offers a chic blend of retro running style and refined color blocking. The combination of soft moonbeam neutrals with deep burgundy accents gives it an autumn‑winter mood that works beautifully for Christmas gatherings. Its asymmetrical “N” branding and sculpted sole keep things fresh and fashion‑oriented rather than purely sporty.
This sneaker pairs well with beige or cream trousers, burgundy knits, or even a tailored suit in neutral tones. The lightweight feel and cushioned midsole make it easy to wear all day, from brunch to evening drinks. It’s a great option if you want something modern, comfortable and a little different from the usual white sneaker.
Chuck 70 De Luxe Heel Egret Black
The Chuck 70 De Luxe Heel in Egret Black is a clever hybrid between a sneaker and a heeled shoe, ideal for women who want extra height without sacrificing comfort. It keeps the recognizable Chuck Taylor design but adds a sculpted heel and refined detailing, making it instantly more dressy and striking. The egret and black palette remains versatile and easy to style.
You can wear this model with tailored trousers, structured dresses or wide-leg jumpsuits for a strong yet playful look that stands out at Christmas dinners and parties. The platform and heel add drama, while the Chuck 70 construction offers more cushioning than a typical dress heel. It’s perfect for those who love the idea of mixing classic sneaker DNA with runway-inspired silhouettes.
These eight sneakers show that you don’t need traditional dress shoes to look elegant this Christmas. With the right models and styling, you can enjoy the comfort of sneakers while still fitting perfectly into festive dinners, office events and family gatherings.