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Editor's Picks Self-Care Fashion Lookbook

Here’s what those “comfy” Insta-famous sneakers are really like

When it comes to shoes – especially sneakers – you know that the look is never really that universal. You’ll see the shoes on the model, the shoes in real life, but they’ll always have a unique fit on you.

So we decided to do something different when we discovered Cariuma, and instead, had our team try them on, instead. Who better to tell the truth, right?

These six women – Deema, Yannise, Meagan, Aafiyah, Tamanna, and Tiara – are the willing testers.

Meagan (top left): I work in an office setting so I’m all heels and flats during the week and typically wear booties or flipflops (depending on the weather) on the weekends. Sneakers? Not so much. I never felt like I had the legs or style to wear them without looking a little silly. I mean, of course, I wear them to the gym, but that’s different! 

Aafiyah (top middle): I don’t really wear sneakers, choosing instead to wear boots. I always thought that I wouldn’t be able to buy sneakers that are reasonably priced and still be able to dress well. Instead, I usually choose to wear boots and my past experiences with sneakers? Nothing to write home about. 

I never felt like I had the legs or style to wear them without looking a little silly. —Meagan

Tamanna (top right): Sneakers are my everyday go-to, but finding shoes that are stylish, sustainable, and comfortable is close to impossible. In my experience, I have to compromise at least one of these factors for the rest. Because of my chronic pain, I prioritize comfort, ending up with sneakers that allow me to painlessly go through my day.

Tiara (bottom left): I’ve always been a big sneakerhead. I grew up in the South and it’s just a part of the culture there. Every year, I was always so excited to pick out a new pair of sneakers to show off to my friends. To this day, I’ll quickly grab a pair of sneakers over anything else. Comfort is a must, though, otherwise, I get plantar fasciitis, which exacerbates my flat feet and bad ankles.

Deema (bottom middle): More often than not, my carefully-curated sneaker collection can’t be used out of fear of creasing and wear. As someone who wears sneakers 75% of the time, this can be a bit of a struggle. Logical? Not really, but hey, aesthetics matter to me.

I’ve always been a big sneakerhead. I grew up in the South and it’s just a part of the culture there. —Tiara

Yannise (bottom right): I don’t remember when it became the norm, but sneakers have always been my go-to for casual footwear. If I had to choose my favorite brand of sneakers before this experiment, I’d have to say Converse. Their style has always appealed to me, and can really elevate an outfit. I’ll wear them down until they have nothing but holes in them, which I prefer anyway!

Since Cariuma’s always touting just how eco-friendly, consciously-made, and comfortable their shoes are, we definitely had to put them to the test. So we each got a pair and wore them every day for a week. Here’s what happened.

…some thoughts while waiting for the packages to arrive…

Meagan: Frankly, I was a little worried. I kept thinking, ugh they’re suede so I can’t wear them everywhere, plus I have no idea how to match sneakers to my outfits.

Deema: I’ve been a borderline sneakerhead since I wore my first pair of classic Adidas. When I discovered Cariuma, I was hesitant. Ordering shoes that were ethically sourced was something that was largely new to me. In a way, ordering the clean-cut OCA Low sneakers in Off White Canvas felt like a way to “give back.” 

Deema wearing Cariuma OCA Low Off White Canvas sneakers.
Deema wearing Cariuma OCA Low Off White Canvas sneakers.

Tiara: Before the shoes arrived, I assumed they wouldn’t work for me. Generally, canvas shoes that look similar to the OCA Low sneakers that sport the flat bottom shape are absolutely terrible for my feet. I was also worried they wouldn’t fit since my feet are wide (flat + wide feet = difficult to find cute shoes).

Deema Alawa / The Tempest Media, Inc.

The shoes we got were a variety of OCA Low and High sneakers. Sustainable and eco-conscious materials are a big part of Cariuma’s brand, and they use everything from canvas, rubber, and leather (both vegan and not) to make their stuff.

So some of us really loved getting the packages in the mail. Like, really, really loved it.

Tamanna: The first thing that caught my eye when I received the shoes was minimal packaging. I have reused, repurposed, and recycled every part of the packaging, which is rare for an international online order. 

Tamanna showing off her Cariuma OCA Low Navy Canvas sneakers.
Tamanna showing off her Cariuma OCA Low Navy Canvas sneakers.

Aafiyah: The box is bright and colorful. I love it! To this day, I still put my shoes back in the box so that I have an excuse to keep the box.

I have reused, repurposed, and recycled every part of the packaging, which is rare for this sort of order. —Tamanna

Tiara: When the shoes arrived at my door, I was so excited! I’m a massive shopping junkie, and I absolutely adored the Cariuma packaging. I know it sounds strange but I loved that the box was completely sealed. I hate when I order shoes that come in the traditional box because they’re always half-open. I’ve had instances when my shoes come all messed up. I especially liked that Cariuma sends you two pairs of shoelaces because it allows me to play around with my style a lot more. 

Deema Alawa / The Tempest Media, Inc.

…and how things went down when we threw our fresh pairs on for the first day out:

Yannise: Putting on the OCA Low Stripe Leopard Suede sneakers wasn’t difficult, and they surprisingly had some height to them (I am 5’1 and love those extra inches). Since I was going to work, I wore light blue high-waisted jeans, a gray long-sleeved top, and an oversized black jacket. Usually, I wear long socks, but this time I chose to wear ankle socks with these shoes. Big mistake.

Yannise Jean rocks the Cariuma OCA Low Stripe Leopard sneakers.
Yannise rocks the Cariuma OCA Low Stripe Leopard Suede sneakers.

Not only was it a rainy day, but the back of my socks slid off of my heel, making the commute somewhat uncomfortable. Can’t blame that on the sneakers, but definitely make sure you’re wearing longer socks if you rock the low tops (or no socks!). 

Tamanna: I got the OCA Low Navy Canvas sneakers. I was excited because they aren’t completely neutral and can bring some understated color to an outfit. On my first day, I styled them with wide pants and a colorful button-up. I love that they didn’t take away from my overall look, but were also interesting in their own right. Over the next few days, I styled these sneakers with midi skirts, jeans, and dresses. 

I styled the shoes with a metallic blue skirt from Zara and Madewell shirt and the sneakers pulled the entire look together, giving a classic edge to street style. —Deema

Meagan: When I pulled out my OCA High All Camel Suede sneakers, I couldn’t wait for daylight to try them out – I decided to go out that night. I immediately put in the brown laces (the OCA sneakers come with two shoelace colors) and was off to a winery with some friends. I combined them with jeans and a green flannel shirt. I looked cute.

Meagan rocking her Cariuma OCA High All Camel Suede sneakers.

Deema: I tried the OCA Low Off White Canvas sneakers on the spot and instantly felt relieved that I didn’t have to worry about creasing the soft canvas. The shoe’s low-cut heel and complementary off-white canvas gave the shoe texture, adopting street style’s shift to juxtaposing textures while retroactively supporting sustainable fashion. I styled the shoes with a metallic blue skirt from Zara and Madewell shirt and the sneakers pulled the entire look together, giving a classic edge to street style.

Tiara Jenkins rocking the Cariuma XXX
Tiara rocking the Cariuma OCA Low All Black Suede sneakers.

Tiara: The next morning I styled the OCA Low All Black Suede sneakers with my normal work attire: black slacks and a sweater, and took off. When I wear shoes with no support I can almost immediately feel the shock in my ankles when my feet hit the concrete, but that wasn’t the case this time! I can’t say I made it all the way to work without any twinges of normal discomfort, but they’re much more comfortable than most of my other shoes. My ankles remained supported and for me, that’s a win.

Deema Alawa / The Tempest Media, Inc.
Deema Alawa / The Tempest Media, Inc.

Now that our week with Cariuma is over, here are our main takeaways:

Meagan: I will say that the next day my butt was a little sore…strange right? I wonder if the shoes act like shape-ups and help tone my legs while I wear them? Technically, they aren’t meant for that, but that’s my belief. Honestly, these are cute-ass sneaks that match with a ton of different stuff and they are ethically-created. Plus I didn’t experience any of those first-day-of-wearing-new-shoes blisters. The price for what you’re getting? Worth it.  

Aafiyah rocking the Cariuma OCA Low cloud grey suede sneakers.

Aafiyah: To be completely honest, initially, the inner sole cushioning worried me slightly, and that I would feel it against my foot. However, it’s felt like I’ve been walking on a cloud. 

Honestly, these are cute-ass sneaks that match with a ton of different stuff. —Meagan

Since I first heard about Cariuma through The Tempest (they’re not that well-known in the UK), I was worried about how good these shoes actually were. To date, though, none of my other shoes compare to the comfort of these sneakers. Since the first day I slipped these on, they remain my go-to for whenever I have to do something for long periods of time. I’m a massive fan.

The shoes are light, somewhat airy, so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing anything less than a cloud. —Yannise

Tamanna: I love these sneakers, and they’re going in my regular rotation! Even after my busiest days, my feet didn’t get cramps like they usually had before I discovered Cariuma. There was a break-in period for me (I mostly felt it on my ankles), but after a week, they felt like a second skin. These days, you’ll find me in my Cariumas if you run into me – so my verdict? Hell yes. 

Tiara: To my surprise, I was pleasantly comfortable in my Cariumas – but! Cariuma, if you’re reading this: in the future, I’d love to see a little bit more cushion or arch support, for those of us with foot problems. I feel like it’s possible to have cute shoes that both help out the wearer and the environment. 

[We reached out and asked Cariuma, and they stated that”our insole is completely removable and can be replaced with special insoles as needed by the wearer!”]

Even after my busiest days, my feet didn’t get cramps like they usually had before I discovered Cariuma. —Tamanna

Deema: The shoes did not disappoint. I’ve been wearing my Cariumas for over a month now, and the fact that they only get more comfortable every day makes me a die-hard supporter. The shoe’s classic look and resilience to wear and tear consistently delivers, making them one of my favorite accessories. Absolute 10/10 on quality, style, and performance. 

Yannise: The shoes are light, somewhat airy, so it doesn’t feel like you’re dragging your feet (which is a massive plus if you live in New York City). Of course, they will feel a little tight when you first wear them, just like with any new shoe. But they’re perfect for styling with any type of wear—casual, formal, dressy, etc. Overall? Ten outta ten.

 

So now, when you see Cariuma on Instagram you’ll know what they’re all about — and if you want a pair of your own, check out their online store. In the words of one of our fave memes:

[Image description: Shia LaBeouf in front of a green screen, saying
[Image description: Shia LaBeouf in front of a green screen, saying “Don’t let your dreams be dreams. Just do it!”] via Giphy

Seriously. Find your solemates today – before they go out of stock!

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Editor's Picks Shopping Shoes Fashion Lookbook

11 outfits to take your travel style to the next level – no matter where you’re going

Heads up: Our readers get an exclusive 15% discount off your entire order if you use the code TEMPEST15 – just click here! Plus, for every pair of sneakers sold, Cariuma is planting 10 trees. 

I love traveling as much as the next person, but packing is a whole other beast. I always end up packing shoes first, because they always end up being the most important part of the outfit.

My goal? Be comfortable enough to take a nap on the plane, but cute enough to start visiting friends after touchdown.

(Side note: Can you believe that people used to dress to the nines to hop on a giant, pressurized tube with random strangers?)

I’m searching for that “super stylish person can’t help but look good even after spending hours pressed up against strangers”-look. I want to exude coolness without giving up even an iota of comfort.

So, of course, I knew I’d found the perfect shoes when I discovered Cariuma, which specializes in handcrafted shoes that are consciously made. They elevate your look without overwhelming your vibe. Perfect.

Below, a few of my favorites with notes on how to wear them on your next big trip. Don’t forget to snag your own pair – and get 15% off your total order!

1. Black leggings are always a go, especially when you’re on the go.

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA HIGH in Black Canvas, $98

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Leggings are the perfect bottoms to wear on your flight. They have the necessary stretch and comfiness that you’re looking for and you can easily dress them up or down. I suggest you opt for black leggings so that you can disguise any potential stains you may encounter on your trip because Turbulence x Drinks from the Flight Attendant = Major Spill Risk. 

You can pair your leggings with a simple bralet or an over-sized t-shirt with a sweater. For the perfect finish, I recommend the OCA HIGH in Black Canvas.

Pair with: Adidas 3-Stripe Leggings in Black, adidas.com, $40; Pretty Little Thing’s Jill Black Slinky Bralet, prettylittlething.us, $18; Lola Hoop’s Zara Gold Pearl Earrings, lolahoop.com, $85.

2. Textured sweater + low tops = a combination you can’t go wrong with. 

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA LOW in Grey Canvas, $79

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Never in my life have I hopped on a plane that wasn’t freezing cold, but that doesn’t mean that you want to lock yourself into wearing a huge sweater the entire time you travel.

Opt for layers so that you can easily take something off, if necessary. I usually go for a hoodie over a crew neck sweater for maximum comfort. I’d pair one of these options with leggings and sneakers. A classic pair of sneakers are perfect for you to lean into the fashionable-but-chill vibe.

Pair with: & Other Stories Boxy Cable Knit Sweater in White, stories.com, $99; Topshop Slouch Trousers, nordstrom.com, $90; Zara Mini Wicker Bag, treynd.com, $12.99. 

3. Joggers are elevated sweats after my own heart. *insert heart eyes*

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma CATIBA LOW in Grey Stripe Vintage, $98

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I am so thankful for joggers. They feel like sweatpants, but since they’re cinched at the ankle, they make you look stylish instead of sloppy, helping to make you look like you care a little. I love wearing them with a tee and light layers — preferably something structured like a jean jacket. A cute pair of low-tops completes the look.

Pair with: ASOS COLLUSION Tall Skinny Jogger in Black, asos.com, $19; ASOS Free People Miss Daizy Floral Bralette, asos.com, $38.50; ASOS River Island Oversized Shacket in Khakhi, asos.com, $87.

4. A dress & red low-tops are perfect for meeting friends right after you land.

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA Low Stripe Red Suede, $98

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This is getting a little fancy, in my opinion, but dresses are still considered a relaxed look by the general public. I love this one because it’s essentially a sexy hoodie. Add a tote and some sneakers to keep it comfy and practical. 

Pair with: ASOS Micha Lounge Luxe Hooded Knit Sweater Dress, asos.com, $87.

5. Mix things up with a pair of statement pants and low-tops.

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA LOW in Shadow Blue Contrast Stripe Canvas, $79

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Elevate your kicks by wearing them with a polished pair of tapered pants that won’t force you to sacrifice comfort for style. This pair of high-waisted check pants are incredibly chic, but the material won’t cause any problems during a long flight. Wear them with a basic shirt or sweater and a pair of low-tops. 

Pair with: H&M Paper-bag Pants in Gray/Checked, hm.com, $29.99; ASOS New Look Tall Roll Neck in Black, asos.com, $16; ASOS DESIGN Earrings with Eye Detail, asos.com, $13. 

6. Always love a good chambray shirt, especially when it’s paired with some dope low-tops. 

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA LOW in Blue Stripe Suede, $98

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For a sophisticated spin, style your kicks with structured office-friendly pieces like a structured chambray shirt and cargo pants. It’s the key to hopping off a plane and into a meeting with ease. If you’ve invested in pieces that inspire confidence, then you already know the psychological power that a really great outfit has on your sense of self.

Pair with: Saks Fifth Avenue Cinq à Sept Harmony Cargo Pants, saksfifthavenue.com, $325; Stormtech White Waterford Chambray Shirt, merchology.com, $37.49. 

7. Take your sneakers to the next level with tailored classics. 

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA LOW in Black Contrast Stripe Canvas, $79

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If I could swoon over an outfit, this would be the one. Sure, it may be better for a shorter trip rather than an overnight, but it’s perfect for those adventures that need a heavy dosage of flair. Rather than dealing with an airport bathroom change after rushing off the plane, you’re good to go as soon as folks move slowly off the plane. 

Honestly, though. It’s like people don’t know how to leave planes without squishing anyone trying desperately to grab their carry-on.

Pair with: ASOS DESIGN Cross Body Bag, asos.com, $40; NET-A-PORTER Cushnie Wrap-effect Satin-Jacquard Dress, net-a-porter.com, $1,395; NET-A-PORTER Gabriela Hearst Angela Satin Blazer, net-a-porter.com, $2,190. 

8. Say “YES!” to lots of pockets. 

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA HIGH in Grey Suede, $129

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The goal of travel is to be able to access your things with as little effort as possible. There is nothing worse than having to scrunch down in your tiny airplane seat and rut around in your bag for a tangled pair of headphones or the boarding pass that you shoved somewhere ridiculous while rushing to your gate.

Cargo pants (IDC, they can be cute!) and jackets, dresses with pockets – it’s all about utility and style. 

Pair with: ASOS DESIGN Satin Utility Pocket Pants, asos.com, $60; Nordstrom BaubleBar Star Drop Earrings, shop.nordstrom.com, $38; Zaful Cable Knit Cropped Sweater in Black, zaful.com, $18.09.

9. If you must wear jeans, go for a relaxed fit. You can’t go wrong with that. 

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma OCA LOW in Ash Blue Suede, $98

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Confession: I currently only own one pair of jeans and I feel zero shame. Leggings are just a superior garment, comfort-wise, and I defy anyone to prove otherwise. But if you’re a person who still loves your denim, opt for relaxed jeans during your flight.

Skinny jeans, while cute, aren’t the coziest of bottoms and wearing too-tight clothes on an airplane could potentially put you at risk for blood clots. Not the greatest souvenir to bring back from your trip.

Pair with: ZARA Mom Fit Jeans in Black, zara.com, $39.90; Printed Goods T-Shirt in Matisse, printedgoods.net, $38.53. 

10. Dusters are a must.

Collage with a red duster, a white slip doress, and white sneakers
via The Tempest, Cariuma

Cariuma OCA Low White Canvas, $79

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Cardigans are always a good choice, but if you want an extra dose of drama, break out a duster. Don’t overthink it; remember your basics. Patterned or not, they’ll add a little extra oomph to an otherwise simple outfit. A simple white T and relaxed jeans are a perfect pairing to wear underneath – but add some drama with a camisole, if that’s your thing. Extra points if you bring a flush of color through your sneakers.

Pair with: ZARA Satin Camisole Dress in White, zara.com, $43.95; Eva Trends Along for the Ride Crepe Trench Coat in Red, evatrends.com, $64.

11. Dress up any outfit with a pair of low tops that make you feel like you’re walking on clouds ALL DAY LONG.

via The Tempest, Cariuma
Deema Alawa for The Tempest Media, Inc.

Cariuma CATIBA LOW in Black Stripe Vintage, $98

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It’s all been leading up to this. When in doubt, wear clothes that you could easily throw on to go to the gym. The athleisure gym isn’t going anywhere because it gives you maximum comfort but still allows you to look stylish and put-together. It may not be in the picture but throw on any sweater for the perfect bit of extra coverage.

I absolutely love every single modern tracksuit that I see. And low-tops complement this look perfectly

Pair with: ZARA Mini Crossbody Bag, zara.com, $29.90; Puma Select XTG 94 Track in Black, dressinn.com, $37.99; PUMA Seamless Sports Bra in Black, amazon.com, $15.79.