Oprah’s Business-Cool Kicks Put a Fresh Spin on White Sneakers

When I zoomed into a recent photo of Oprah, I had a little giggle. And not because she was wearing anything out of the ordinary or strange, and not because what I saw was necessarily funny, but it was so relatable, I just had to chuckle. The queen of all queens was spotted out and about in NYC, after her appearance at the Democratic National Convention, in the coolest look ever (I’ll get to that in a moment), wearing the coolest shoes ever, with her Apple MacBook pinched between a few fingers. Talk about business nonchalance that might make some people cringe in fear, am I right? 

MacBook Air aside, Oprah’s look leaned business-cool as well, though it can certainly be an unexpected choice when talking about “office clothes.” That said, these days “office attire” can be anything you want, and Queen O proves this. The icon opted for a two-piece track set that wasn’t your average tracksuit; instead, hers felt more elevated, thanks to a classic pinstripe print, trouser-like pants, and a billowy blouse that was equal parts refined yet sporty (I’m obsessed with that XXL zipper). The kicker? Oprah being Oprah opted for the original cool skater shoe—except hers are designer and will cost you nearly $1,000. 

Cariuma Catiba Pro Low Off-White Vintage/Black Sneaker

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low-Top Sneaker

After some digging, I found her designer Brunello Cucinelli sneakers, and honestly, the design is top notch. The low-tops ooze a low-key cool skater vibe, with a multi-fabric outer that includes a mix of knit, suede, and metallic beaded detailing—talk about a shoe with many sides. The metallic cap-toe adds an of-the-moment touch, as the shiny material is still trending big, while the combo of suede and knit offer breathable elegance. Obsessed!

While I can’t buy Oprah’s exact pair right now, I found a bunch of similar low-top kicks with a combo design, like these Cariumas with a suede-leather mix or these Dolce Vitas that come in a bunch of different colors and mixed-material silhouettes. While a simple white sneaker—or black, or beige—is fine and all, I can’t help but appreciate a shoe that looks different from every angle. It draws attention! It’s cool! And it’s a bit more out-there than a simple, one-tone option. 

Oprah inspired me to buy a mixed-material sneaker ahead of fall, and I think she’ll probably inspire you, too. So, check the lookalikes I found below. You’re welcome in advance.

Get the Look:

Cariuma Oca Low White Premium Leather/Off-White Vintage Suede
Shop now: $149; cariuma.com

P448 John Recycled White Sneaker
Shop now: $298; us.p448.com

Sam Edelman Ethyl Low Top Sneaker
Shop now: $65; nordstrom.com

Golden Goose Super-Star Low Top Sneaker
Shop now: $565; nordstrom.com

Dolce Vita Notice Sneaker
Shop now: $139; nordstrom.com