Slip On: The Complete Guide to History, Style and Pairings
Slip-ons have long been a favorite among people due to their practicality and comfort. In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about these shoes: from their features to the best ways to wear them.
Origins of the Slip on Shoe
In 1944, Paul Van Doren, one of the founders of the Vans brand, began to cultivate a passion for footwear. This interest was sparked by his experience working as a clerk at Randy's, a shoe factory in Boston. After twenty years of apprenticeship, Van Doren decided to start his own business with his brother Jim and friends Gordy and Serge, founding the Van Doren Rubber Company. The company aimed to produce canvas shoes that would suit the tastes of the entire family.
Among the main models, the Authentic stood out - a boat shoe - and the Old Skool, a sneaker with a leather toe. The Vans Checkerboard, a slip-on model that soon became a true icon for skaters (and not only) were what attracted the attention of the younger generations . From the 70s onwards, numerous companies and realities followed in the wake of the success of Vans, introducing their own slip-on shoe models for men and women.
Slip on features
The main feature of these shoes is the absence of laces or zips, which makes them extremely practical and quick to put on and take off. There is often an elastic band that makes it easier to put on. The upper is soft and resistant, allowing it to easily adapt to the morphology of the foot and ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. The sole can vary depending on the style and model, but it is usually flexible and light , contributing to an overall feeling of agility and freedom of movement.
Slip-ons can be worn in a variety of contexts , which is what makes them perfect for those who want to combine functionality, style and comfort in one solution.
Difference between classic sneaker and slip on
The ability to adjust the fit to the foot through the laces is one of the main distinguishing advantages of classic sneakers. This allows people to tighten or loosen the shoe according to their needs.
Laces are usually placed on the upper part of the shoe and can be adjusted to suit how tight you want the shoe to be. While laces are the main advantage of traditional sneakers, unfortunately they are also their main disadvantage. In fact, everyone has tripped over their own loose laces while walking down the street at least once, right? Well, while it may be hilarious, you could also accidentally hurt yourself. This is probably the main disadvantage of any traditional sneaker: even when you try your hardest to tie a double knot with the aim of keeping the shoe tied all day, you end up with loose laces while walking and therefore, forced to stop to tighten, adjust and tie the shoe again.
Slip-on sneakers offer a perfect solution for those who want to say goodbye to the annoyance of laces that constantly come undone. This type of footwear completely eliminates the danger of tripping or having to stop to adjust the closure of the shoe: just slip your foot into the shoe and you are ready to go. Initially, if you are not used to this type of footwear, you may have the sensation of “losing the shoe” while walking. Don't worry, this is normal and you will see that the more you wear and use this model, the more you will get used to the type of grip that - although completely different from that of a traditional sneaker with laces - is equally comfortable and safe, as well as more practical.
T-Switch: The sneaker that is worn like a slip-on
Are you looking for a slip-on model but can't give up the timeless look of iconic classic sneakers? T-Switch has you covered: the shoe created with the perfect combination of the look of a traditional sneaker and the comfort of a slip-on. The laces perform an aesthetic-functional function, so that you can finally wear a sneaker without fear of tripping. They are elastic silicone laces that allow for a slip-on fit. T -Switch is a comfortable, practical and also versatile shoe: you can change the color of the tongue and strap based on the mood and look of the day , so it will seem like you are wearing a different shoe every time even if you are always using the same pair of sneakers.
When to wear a slip on shoe?
Slip-ons are the ideal shoe for many occasions , from a walk outdoors, to dinner with friends, to an event you will be attending. Their functionality and versatile style make them an excellent choice for those looking for comfort and style. For those who mainly work in an office, traditional slip-ons are perfect: their adaptability allows you to effortlessly switch from work commitments to free time activities, managing to obtain looks that are always appropriate for the context.
How to match slip ons
Question of questions: how can we be sure to wear slip-ons without risking being inappropriate? Below are some outfit suggestions for different occasions in which you could put on a pair of T-Switches.
For the man
Business meeting or gathering
Choose a pair of dark blue chinos paired with a slim-fit white shirt for a clean and professional look. Complete the outfit with a light gray blazer or the same color as the pants. To give a touch of freshness and modernity, wear the T-switches coordinating the color of the tongue and strap with the blue of the suit or the gray of the blazer.
Ceremony
Start with a pair of slim-fit elegant trousers , perhaps in a shade of grey or navy. Choose a white or thin-striped shirt , to wear with the sleeves rolled up for a more casual look . Opt for T-switches with T-kits in bold tones to create a pop of colour that does not go unnoticed, but that creates the perfect match with the rest of the look. For example, with navy could go well the T- Metal gold. With grey, instead, you could opt for the T-Yellow. If you prefer, you can complete the look with a blazer matching the trousers or make the look more casual by wearing only the shirt.
Free time
Slip into a pair of black trousers , a casual wardrobe essential. Choose an oversized white t-shirt , very simple and versatile. Complete the look with our white T-Switch with black strap and tab. You will have created a casual look that you can wear on multiple occasions.
For the woman
Business meeting or gathering
Have you ever thought about a suit paired with sneakers? Choose a suit composed of cigarette pants and a fitted blazer. For the shirt, opt for classic white or pastel colors. If you prefer to make the look less classic, we recommend a sleeveless under jacket - perhaps ribbed - with double braces and a crew neck. Match the T-switch sneakers by choosing a tongue and strap that recall the colors of the shirt or under jacket , so as to create a light, classy and very refined color combination, which says something about you even within the walls of the office.
Ceremony
Do you want a jaunty and original style for the outfit of the next ceremony you will attend? We recommend a dress with a soft flared skirt that does not exceed the length of the knee , perhaps even better if with a boat neckline or a sweetheart bodice. Pair it with slip-ons that recall the same colors as the dress, to create the perfect mix and match. Complete the whole thing with minimal accessories that illuminate and frame your face. Little gem? For the jacket, choose a light denim - perhaps cropped - so that it further marks the cut of the waist of the skirt and makes your look vaguely reminiscent of a pin up girl from the '50s.
Free time
A versatile combo to enjoy your free time? One of the evergreens of street style: knitted set - skirt edition , strictly color block. It is composed of a cropped sweater and a longuette in ribbed with side slit, ideal for spring. If necessary, you can create its summer declination with a tank top for an ever new mix and match. The protagonists of the look are our T-Switch, with fluorescent green details.
Article by Federica Zingarelli.
