From JuiceLand to the University Co-op, The Drag is home to many iconic staples for students at the University of Texas at Austin, and has been infamous for its grungy appeal. Down-to-earth, low-key street style reigns supreme against the bustling background noise of buses, cyclists and students. When running to class on this busy road, a sturdy but stylish pair of sneakers is essential.

Story by Sara McCann

ORANGE Magazine has listed eight top sneaker picks, grouped by style and ordered by price, that range from full-on street style to luxurious high fashion splurges. Pair these shoes with anything from leggings and crop tops to denim shorts and lacy blouses to give your wardrobe some versatility.

Steve Madden Gills-V ($49.98)
Hit all the marks with these trendy velvet slip-ons.  A platform sole keeps you elevated and bold, and the dark fabric expertly conceals scuffs.

Steve Madden Allure ($79.95)
Sporty silver leather and a classic star accent combine to create the perfect on-the-go look. These sneakers will instantly give your outfit a little shine without being overpowering.

Adidas Campus Shoes, Red Night ($90)
This unique color pairs well with athleisure neutrals and also functions as a protective barrier against any errant dark-colored scuffs or stains. Bonus points for the name — who doesn’t love wearing a sneaker called the “campus” shoe around an actual college campus?

Stan Smith Fashion Sneaker, Core Running White/Off White ($100)
You can’t go wrong with these classic tennis shoes. The sleek silhouette and perforated detailing complement any outfit, and while the bright white leather may get dirty, the worn-in look will be totally on-trend.

Puma Basket Heart Safari Suede Sneaker, Black ($90)
Ribbon laces provide an unexpectedly girly contrast to the thick rubber sole of these Puma sneakers. Dark suede and lots of support make these shoes great for running to class while still looking fashionable.

Puma Suede Glittered Platform Sneaker, Cream ($100)
You can’t go wrong with another platform look from Puma. Dense sparkles against a sturdy neutral base make for a winning combination that’ll take you (very fashionably) from point A to point B.

MICHAEL Michael Kors, Keaton Star-Studded Leather Slip-On Sneaker ($110)
Easy to slide on and easy to style — what more could you ask for? The metal star details add a little edge to any outfit.

Vince Caden Colorblock Slip-On Sneaker ($250)
This shoe is another versatile, casual slip-on option that lends a touch of sophistication to the simplest of outfits. A flashback to the color blocking trend combined with high-quality leather is the perfect balance of classic and fresh.

Golden Goose Superstar Fabric/Metallic Low-Top Sneaker, Silver ($495)
Grungy touches on a high-fashion brand’s signature low-tops are the epitome of luxury: made to look dirty but not actually dirty, trying but not trying too hard. While they are quite the investment, the best thing about these shoes is that you don’t have to worry about scuffing them up.

Golden Goose Superstar Snake-Embossed Metallic Low-Top Sneaker ($565)
Last but not least, this ultimate Drag-style sneaker really pops with textured metallic leather and grungy detailing on the soles. These shoes pair well with any athletic outfit, are highly functional when you’re running to class and again, there’s no need to worry about getting them dirty. That’s a win-win-win!