If you live in baggy jeans, hoodies, gym shorts and “going out” tees, this one’s for you. No suit jackets. No chinos. No talk of tailoring. Just real outfits for real days - and how to add a few centimetres without changing your whole vibe.
Height-boosting sneakers have come a long way. They look and feel like regular kicks, but give you an extra lift that helps balance out relaxed fits, oversized layers or anything that might visually shorten your frame. The best part? No one can tell, but you’ll feel the difference straight away.
Here’s how to wear elevator sneakers when dressing down is very much your thing.
Baggy Doesn’t Mean Boxy
Oversized everything is having a moment - jeans, cargos, hoodies, tees. It’s comfortable, current, and easy to wear. But it can also make you look shorter if there’s nothing grounding the outfit.
That’s where height-boosting sneakers come in. A style like the Novo Height Boosting Sneakers gives you up to 10cm of extra height in a design that blends right into a relaxed look. The extra lift balances out the volume of baggy jeans or a longline tee, helping your proportions feel more put together while fitting perfectly with your overall vibe.
Shorts and Sneakers Done Right
Yes, you can absolutely wear elevator sneakers with shorts—whether it's your smart 'going-out' pair or those longer basketball styles that hit mid-shin. If shorts are your go-to for everything from park hangs to first dates, elevator sneakers are a solid way to add a bit of height without drawing attention. Even in full view, they’re subtle enough that no one will clock what’s going on under the laces.
Heading out? Pair your best shorts with a well-fitting tee and a low-key sneaker like the Callan, available in black, brown or ecru leather. It delivers a smooth 6cm boost and enough all-day comfort to carry you well into the night. A structured sneaker paired with a crisp upper half keeps your proportions sharp and the whole outfit feeling balanced.
Just hanging? Pair oversized shorts and a relaxed tee with a chunkier style like the Drift Hi-Tops for extra confidence and a bit of added presence that balances out the laid-back fit without trying too hard.
Gym Gear That Works Beyond the Gym
We’re not saying wear your lifting shoes to brunch. But daily athletic wear - track pants, hoodies, technical tees - is already a big part of casual style. The trick is to keep the lines clean and the sneakers fresh.
Shoes like the Axis Sneakers fit right in. With a sport-inspired design and a solid 8cm lift, they blend with joggers or sweats without looking like performance shoes. They’re the kind of sneaker that quietly says “I’ve got this” even when you’re just running errands.
Keep Your Essentials, Upgrade Your Sneakers
If your wardrobe mostly revolves around the same few staples - black hoodie, loose denim, solid tees - you’re not alone. The easiest way to level up that kind of outfit is with a pair of sneakers that add height, shape and a bit of low-key flex.
White or off-white options like the Novo in white are super popular for this exact reason. They work with anything, clean up your overall silhouette, and give you that subtle boost without changing your go-to look.
Why Elevator Sneakers are a Baggy Dresser's Best Friend
Baggy or oversized clothes can sometimes compress your proportions, making your legs look shorter or your outfit feel a bit bottom-heavy. A discreet height boost helps offset that, rebalancing your shape so things look more even, especially in photos or mirrors. It’s a small change that makes a big difference, even if no one else can quite put their finger on it.
Style Tips for Laid-Back Looks with Elevator Sneakers
- Match your socks to your generarion! Millenial - then it's no-shows with shorts. Gen Z? Crew socks are your go to, but lean into streetwear rather than school uniform.
- Cuff or stack your jeans to avoid swamping your shoes. Show just enough of the sneaker to let it anchor the outfit.
- Keep it clean. If you’re wearing oversized pieces, your sneakers should be crisp to avoid looking sloppy.
- Monochrome always wins. Head-to-toe black or earth tones make your look feel intentional, even if it’s casual.
- Don’t overthink it. These shoes are made to blend in. Style them like you would any other sneaker, and enjoy the quiet boost.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to dress up to stand taller. Height-boosting sneakers work just as well with laid-back fits as they do with smart ones - and sometimes even better. Whether you're in wide-leg cargos, your “good” shorts or your favourite weekend hoodie, there’s a pair that’ll lift your look without messing with your style.
Dress how you like. Walk a little taller while you're at it.