Why Many CES Speakers Are Opting for White Sneakers: A Style Shift Taking Over the Stage [Forbes JAPAN]
This column is a full English translation of the article contributed to Forbes JAPAN on January 17th, 2022.
The 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) recently concluded, marking the return of the in-person event after two years. What stood out this time was not only the array of innovative technologies but the shift in focus toward enhancing the comfort of people’s everyday lives.
While official settings remain important, there was a noticeable emphasis on individual comfort, space, and how each person chooses to live.
What really caught my attention, however, was the presence of the CEOs and speakers on stage. Their appearances had become notably more casual than in previous years, a reflection of the "comfort-first" message they aimed to convey.
The Rise of Casual Attire on the West Coast
In the U.S., business presentation styles differ significantly between the East and West Coasts. On the East Coast, where I reside, the atmosphere tends to be more conservative and formal. The West Coast, however, leans toward a casual approach, epitomized by Silicon Valley’s tech culture.
CES, held in Las Vegas, carries a strong West Coast, tech-forward vibe. I recall advising a Japanese company during their CES press conference two years ago, urging their CEO and speakers to adopt a more relaxed, yet smart style appropriate for a West Coast setting. Instead of the traditional suit and tie, I recommended modern, season-appropriate suits without ties, paired with sleek leather shoes. It was initially met with hesitation, but they eventually agreed.
Fast forward to this year, and the trend has only intensified. I was struck by how much further this casual approach had evolved. Many CEOs of major Japanese corporations, once bound to the formal suit-and-tie image, now opted for separate blazers and trousers. Some wore sweaters beneath their blazers, and their footwear choices included black sneakers or casual leather shoes rather than traditional dress shoes.
The Significance of White Sneakers
What truly stood out at CES 2022 was the prevalence of sneakers, particularly white ones. White sneakers, synonymous with sportiness and casual attire, represent a significant shift from the traditional business dress code.
Typically, even in a casual business setting, male speakers would still wear dark trousers, and black sneakers would go unnoticed against this background. However, choosing white sneakers is a bold statement—a clear departure from the conventional business suit. It signifies a new mindset, one that embraces the idea that work is no longer confined to the office, but can be done from anywhere. It communicates a vision of a healthier, more comfortable future, rooted in individual well-being.
Seeing so many high-profile speakers in white sneakers at a globally watched press conference is a sure sign that the times are changing.
For years, I’ve been conducting fashion “spot checks” in various places, and this shift didn’t entirely surprise me. I recall observing a similar trend four years ago at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, where the men’s department displayed white sneakers prominently. The casualization of business attire was already underway. However, I did wonder how far the trend would go—how many people would actually wear white sneakers with their suits?
Looking back at those images today, the sight of white sneakers seems perfectly natural. Watching this year’s CES speakers wearing them on stage gave me a feeling of awe.
Why White Sneakers Work
Shoes are the part of an outfit closest to the ground, prone to dirt and wear. Despite this, white sneakers offer something unique—a sense of cleanliness, energy, and health. In a world as chaotic as ours, white sneakers give off a reassuring impression of someone standing firm, ready to face the challenges ahead.
But pulling off white sneakers in a business setting requires a certain kind of person—someone whose mental, physical, and stylistic confidence can match the casual ease of the look. Otherwise, it can come off as disjointed, as if the person is unprepared or borrowing an outfit that doesn’t quite fit.
The simplicity of white sneakers is deceptive. They’re not an easy accessory to wear well, but when done right, they convey confidence and intentionality.
The Art of Styling White Sneakers
Choosing the right pair of white sneakers requires strategy. The first step is to incorporate them into your casual work attire. Consider where you plan to wear them and select the style accordingly. Unlike seasonal trends or statement pieces, white sneakers are a wardrobe staple. It's essential to choose a minimalist, reliable pair that suits your foot and style preferences.
From there, build your outfit in reverse—start with the shoes and then decide which pants, shirt, and jacket will complement them. This approach may be the true meaning of "putting your best foot forward."
While traditional black leather shoes and pumps are still vital in many business settings, white sneakers may soon find their place in the mix. Shoes have the power to make a statement, and the choice of white sneakers tells the world that a new era is rapidly approaching—one we’re all walking toward, step by step.
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