Presented in partnership with Nike
Call it the JAW Effect. SG Madness 2024 finalist and The Bear star Jeremy Allen White may be singlehandedly (footedly?) responsible for the Nike Cortez sneaker renaissance happening right now.
Which is great! It’s a cool sneaker that comes in a variety of colors and fabrics, meaning there’s a pair for every guy out there.
Whether you’re a longtime fan feeling vindicated the rest of the world has caught up, or a footwear aficionado who’s interested in trying this classic sneaker for the first time, Team SG has you covered with style inspiration.
Below, check out a week’s worth of men’s Nike Cortez outfits featuring the iconic sneaker style.
How to wear Nike Cortez
As your “pop of color”
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- shirt: Vince
- pants: Frame
- belt: Anderson’s
- sunglasses: Knockaround
When going bold with your sneaker, you can keep the rest of your look neutral (without it looking boring).
This outfit would be great for a date, a concert, or meeting friends for a drink or dinner.
With jeans
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- jeans: Abercrombie
- shirt: Todd Snyder
- sunglasses: Le Specs
I love the idea of treating your Nike Cortez sneakers like loafers — aka, use them to add a twist to an otherwise straightforward outfit.
You could also take this same outfit formula of a button-down and jeans and switch up any element. Wear darker jeans. Or an oxford shirt instead of a band collar. Trade the white Nike Cortez sneakers for a more vibrant color.
Basically? It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to this go-to everyday uniform.
On date night
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- shirt: Far Afield (almost sold out! similar here)
- tank (3-pack): Gap
- pleated pants: Alex Mill
You know how we feel about a ribbed tank here at SG HQ.
I also love the cuffed pants that help you show off your stylish sneaks.
Paired with shorts
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- t-shirt: Randy’s Garments
- socks: Nike
- shorts: Proof
Don’t overthink it. They’re sneakers, so wear them with your favorite shorts and a well-loved t-shirt.
Done!
To the office
shop the outfit:
If sneakers at the office works for you, here’s how to dress them up so you look polished and professional.
RELATED: What to Wear to Every Kind of Office
A knit polo lets everyone know you’re making an effort with your outfit, while the dress pants show you mean business.
Below, shop Nike Cortez sneakers:
The OG
First launched in 1972, the iconic sneaker looks pretty much the same now as it did then. The updates? A wider toe area and firmer side panels so you can more comfortably wear them all day long.
Nike Cortez textile
A revamped version of the original Cortez that maintains their retro appeal.
The textile helps prevent warping or creasing for a shoe that’s as durable as it is good-looking.
Nike Cortez 23 Premium Leather
Jeremy Allen White’s go-to Cortez sneakers are the white-on-white pair above.
Our team also loves the black as a way to look and feel a little more dressed up in even a casual sneaker. When it comes to men’s Nike Cortez sneaker outfits, you’d look good in either. Or both.
