Day-to-Night: How to Transition Your Look with the Right Shoes

From 9 to (way past) 5: Shoes That Keep Up

You know those days where you’ve got work, drinks, maybe even a dinner date all lined up?  And somewhere between the last meeting and dinner plans, you'll need to go from “professional” to “presentable” without a complete outfit change.

The last thing you want is to be feeling underdressed during the day, or clomping around in stiff shoes at 10pm. Or worse still, carrying a spare change of clothes with you unnecessarily.  That’s where smart footwear comes in. Shoes that can handle a long day at work and still look sharp after dark.  Add in a subtle height boost (it never hurts), and you’ve got a recipe for all-day confidence.

Whether you’re working late, heading to a date, or heading out with friends in one outfit, here’s how to choose height-boosting shoes that can transition from day to night without missing a beat.

So, what makes a good day-to-night shoe?

It’s less about a specific style and more about versatility. Something clean, modern and comfortable enough for the 9-to-5 grind, but still sharp enough for whatever comes after.

And if it gives you a few extra centimetres in the process? Even better. A little lift goes a long way when you’re trying to own the room.

Your new all-rounder: the clean white sneaker

This one’s a no-brainer. A white sneaker that goes with everything is a wardrobe staple. But not just any pair—pick one with structure, polish, and a bit of height hidden in the sole.

👟 Rove Sneakers

These give you a comfortable 7cm boost, and they don’t look out of place whether you’re in the office, at dinner or heading to a rooftop bar. They’re minimal in the best way, pairing perfectly with your day-to-night wardrobe - chinos and a blazer during the day, changed up for a black shirt or a knit polo for night.

For a bit more edge: mid-top sneakers

If you want an edgier look - something that feels a bit cooler and a bit less expected - try mid-top sneakers

👟 Durion Mid-Tops

These are like your favourite sneakers, but grown up. Subtle panelling, soft leather in earthy brown or grey, plus up to 8cm of hidden lift. Great with cropped trousers or black jeans, especially if you’re going from co-working space to cocktails.

You’ll look like you planned it—even if you didn’t.

When sneakers don't cut it..

Not every day calls for sneakers. Sometimes you’ve got a client meeting or a work dinner where you need to bring a smarter outlook to your day.

That’s when you bring out the boots.

👢 Domani Chelsea Boots

These are slick. Leather Chelsea boots in brown or black leather with a clean silhouette and a secret 6cm lift. You can wear them with smart trousers during the day, then just throw on a jacket after work and you’re good to go.

No one will guess you’re wearing elevator shoes—they’ll just think you look sharp.

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And for those in-between days…

The ones where you’re keeping it casual, but you still want to look intentional.

👟 Callan Sneakers

Callan hits that perfect middle ground—smart enough for the office, cool enough for the evening. They’ve got a textured, slightly sporty look that works with everything. And like the rest of our picks? You’re getting a 6cm boost without the bulk.

Wear them with cuffed chinos or even relaxed tailoring—they can handle both.

A few styling tricks to make the transition easy

Shoes are key, but the rest of your look should hold its own too. Here’s how to keep things easy:

• Neutral colours = less thinking. Black, white, grey, brown - you can mix and match without trying too hard.

• Layers are your friend. An overshirt or a jacket can take your outfit from daytime casual to “yes, I did plan this” with zero effort.

• Tailored fits beat trendy ones. Leave the oversized stuff for the weekend. Slim, slightly cropped trousers show off your shoes—and your silhouette.

The bonus? No one knows you’re taller

That’s the beauty of it. The height boost is built into the shoe, so the only thing people notice is that you’re looking confident, standing straighter, and probably owning the room a little more than usual.

It’s not about pretending to be someone else—it’s about showing up like your best version. And when the shoes are doing part of the work for you? That’s just smart.

The quick pick list

Here's a no-fuss breakdown of what to wear, when.

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Final word

When your day keeps on going, you need shoes that can keep up - and if they can quietly add a few extra centimetres along the way? Even better.

The right pair won’t just get you through a busy day—they’ll help you own it, start to finish. No wardrobe change needed. Just lace (or zip) up, and go.