Keds

We knew it was coming months ago when we heard Taylor Swift inked a deal with Keds. Now, with a glimpse of Swift in the label's new Bravehearts campaign shot, we have confirmation of what we pretty much knew all along: Swift was born to play this part. In fact, it's easy to confuse this campaign snap for just another paparazzi shot of the star — from the polka-dot fit-and-flare to the red lip (and of course, the classic kicks), this is a signature Swift ensemble. But the brand's interest in Swift is more than skin deep. In seeking out a Keds girl, the label was looking for someone "optimistic, kind and bold, [who] views life with a very brave outlook," to complement the spirit of the Bravehearts campaign. To further that narrative, Swift is sharing her own bravest moment on the newly launched Bravehearts website — and asking you to do the same — in the hopes of inspiring girls to "live fearlessly and define their individual style." As far as aesthetics go, Keds and Swift may be a perfect match; but we want to know, is she a celeb you think embodies the Bravehearts spirit? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Photo courtesy of Keds

Taylor Swift was spotted out and about in Sydney looking quintessentially preppy, only this time she added a sporty twist. The singer wore this black-and-white-striped Theory sweater ($255) with cropped Hudson jeans and red Keds sneakers ($35). She then added black Ray-Ban Wayfarers and the brown leather Beara Beara messenger she's been carrying around lately. Score Taylor's exact sweater and shoes now to rock a preppy-meets-sporty vibe this weekend. Then pair the sweater with wide-legged black trousers for a work-appropriate look during the week.

While promoting Breaking Dawn Part 2 in NYC, Kristen Stewart showed off her latest street style: a two-tone leather jacket by Belstaff and these Hudson cropped black tuxedo jeans ($198). The actress finished her casual-cool outfit with signature Keds sneakers and a basic black Joe's Jeans tank. Tuxedo jeans are all the rage right now, and we recommend investing in Kristen's exact pair because it's black on black and will go with everything in your wardrobe. Dress them down with sneakers like the actress did or dress them up with a pair of killer sandals or booties and a blazer. For an office-appropriate look, sport your tuxedo jeans with a silky white blouse and classic pumps.

Keds are often the finishing touch on Taylor Swift's many cute, classic looks, so it comes as no surprise that she's inked a three-year collaboration with the iconic sneaker company. Swift told WWD, "I've been a fan of Keds for years, because they have two of my favorite elements of great style — they're classic and effortless. I remember wearing Keds as a little kid, while riding my bike around the farm."

She may have worn them as a little kid, but it's the way she wears them now that caught the company's eye. Taylor's style is classic and feminine with a healthy dose of prep, and the country pop star has been spotted numerous times wearing Keds. If Keds is a classic American sneaker brand, it doesn't get more classic American than Swift this Summer, spotted hanging out in Cape Cod with boyfriend Conor Kennedy. Keds brand president Rick Blackshaw said, "Taylor is a shining example of what can happen when you set your mind to something," and he continued to explain that the brand resonates with "bold, unique girls who are brave enough to be themselves." According to WWD, signing Taylor is part of the company's larger brand strategy to expand their women's line, including apparel. Might we see Taylor's influence in clothing, too — perhaps some of her sweet, feminine dresses?

The first sneaker to be unveiled from the collaboration is a limited-edition red champion style, which is no surprise considering the champion is the first sneaker Keds introduced in 1916 — my, my, such an old sneaker can feel so young — and Swift's latest album is titled Red.

If there's one thing the sneaker-obsessed can agree on, it's that there are some brands that defy fleeting trends and seasonality. To this point, there's no argument that Converse, Keds, PF Flyers, and Superga have stood the test of time without ever compromising a simple rubber-soled, canvas-top silhouette in the process. Perhaps, that's what makes these iconic brands — all synonymous with old-school laid-back style — a favorite for celebrities, sleek style setters, and everyone else you know. But as a devout sneaker classicist myself, I think the appeal of a high-top Chuck or a cherry red low-top Superga is deeply rooted in its history, its functionality, and its easy ability to evoke a nostalgic-meets-sporty vibe simultaneously.

A few of our favorite classic kicks spotted (clockwise from top left): Kristen Stewart, street style, Miley Cyrus, street style, Michelle Williams, street style, Jennifer Aniston, street style

Steeped in a rich Americana culture — save for Superga's Italian-bred beginnings — these household names have been around since the early 1900s. That is to say, it's entirely possible your grandparents were rocking the same kicks you are today. Maybe it's my memory of The Sandlot and the film's emphasis on PF Flyers — "guaranteed to make a kid run faster and jump higher." Maybe it's the fact that Keds can complete a plethora of looks, from girlie 1950s poodle skirts to Grease-inspired all-leather getups. Or maybe it's because when we think of Converse, we instantly are transported to the innocence of our playground days. Whatever it is that strikes a chord first, it's pretty evident that, like our striped t-shirt fixation, there's a real practicality that comes with wearing these classic sneakers. You can style them with something as casual as denim or as ladylike as a tea-length dress — either way, it's a no-fail look with an effortless feel.

Inspired by the stylish stars (picture above) that wear them, read on for updated classic kick styling tips.