Step Up Your Sneaker Game With 12 Colorful DIYs

Nike Cortez Leather

These leather Nike sneakers have been in the game for decades – and for good reason. Though they're shoppable in a classic black + white colorway, I think this red + blue iteration has just enough color and flair without totally distracting your outfit. They're undeniably vintage-y, yet perfectly modern to match every ensemble you put together. What's more is these are as easy to wear as they are to style, thanks to the comfy foam midsole and thick wedge heel.

Nike Air Max SC

The mixed materials on these shoes are influenced by their practical track and field origins, but they've taken on more of a sporty streetwear vibe over the years, which I love. I've had friends throughout the years that won't go anywhere without these Nike sneakers. They're a great match with with jeans and sweatpants alike, and seamlessly go with any color palette you're working with, since they're just drenched in neutrals.

Nike SB Zoom Blazer Low Pro GT

Since low-profile sneakers are undoubtedly having a moment right now (everyone say "thank you" to the Adidas Sambas and Puma Easy Riders), these skater shoes are going to instantly make you look right on trend. If you want to make an even bigger "It" girl move wearing them, swap out the plain white laces for colorful ones, or even mix and match between the left and right shoes!

Nike Spark

These "thoughtfully crafted" sneaks are not quite for the streetwear fiends out there, but those who embrace being active every single day. Just by the structured look of them, you can see that they're geared specifically toward higher-impact movements, like walking long distances (and running even farther). Their feel on the feet is equal parts cushy and bouncy – literally putting some pep in your step.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 LX

These sneakers take the Air Force 1 – Nike's most classic basketball sneaker – and turn it on its head, while still retaining all the details that make the AF1's, well, the AF1's. You'll spot the timeless thick soles, signature side swoops, and breathable mesh paneling across the toe boxes, except this version is swarmed in chic, cream-colored suede and features a fun royal blue accent at the heels that definitely set them apart from the original (and at this point, tired) all-white colorway.

Nike Waffle Debut Vintage

Directly influenced by the shoe styles of the '70s, Nike slapped some soft suede on these sneakers along with a vibrant orange color that feels extremely indicative of the disco decade. Though they look like they're from another time period, they're a perfect fit for today's trends – pair 'em with a sleek matching set or baggy jeans for a sporty boost.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 Next Nature

These all-white shoes are uber-reliable for those moments you don't exactly know what shoes to reach for. Not only do they match with practically any 'fit, they feel super comfortable and virtually never wear out, as long as you take good care of them. You'll earn some serious street cred wearing them, too. They're that iconic.

Nike Tech Hera

The wavy design along the sides of these sneakers combined with the skinny laces up top makes for a playful visual effect that instantly amps up any get-up you've got goin' on, even if it's just jeans and a white tee. They almost have a Y2K feel to them, with an added height boost from the chunky soles. I need these on my feet ASAP.

Nike Blazer Mid '77

These high-rise sneaks have been hot since the '70s, beloved through the '80s and '90s, and perfectly revamped for the 2000's and beyond. They are still stamped with the vintage logo on the tongue, and massive swooshes on the sides for recognizable brand appeal.

Kids' Shoes

2002 Sneaker

These athletic sneaks are designed to provide "essential cushioning" and shock absorption with ample support around the durable midsole and outsole. They're perfect for the kiddo that can't stay away from the playground since they stay on securely with a lace-up closure. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

9060 Sneaker

These stylish shoes are equally supportive and soft, all while boasting some eye-catching, tech-inspired details. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

480 Sneaker

For a more fashion-forward look, the 480's basketball-inspired silhouette can work on and off the court. The rubber outsole is impressively durable, providing a good amount of traction in every step. Available in little kid and big kid sizes.

530 Sneaker

The New Balance 530s are truly iconic. The 2000's design is made to absorb any sort of impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance that runs throughout the entire shoe, so your kiddo will definitely feel comfortable wearing them as an everyday style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

574 Sneaker

This "reliable" sneaker takes on road and trail shoe details in the lightweight EVA foam midsole cushioning and mesh paneling up top for added breathability. They currently come in 4 other colorways to suit your kiddo's personal style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

990V6 Hook & Loop Sneaker

Designed for toddlers & babies as well as little kids, these velcro-able sneakers provide a nice and easy on-and-off option for busy bees. The leather upper has reflective details for an unmissable look, plus the shoe is appropriately padded throughout for unmatched comfort.

327 New-B Hook & Loop Sneaker

These lil' sneakers boast a "generous" toe box and instep that's designed specifically to support any first-walker's needs. The outer layers are durable, so they'll stand up nicely to daily wear. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

Kids' Clothing

BB Global Crew

This 80% cotton and 20% polyester crewneck pullover is fitted with a brushed-back fleece material for a "soft and cozy feel." It makes the perfect fall and winter layer for your kiddo to bring to school on chilly days!

CDL Floral Shoe Graphic T-Shirt

We want this adorable graphic tee for ourselves! The bold pink and yellow design will give your little one's look some serious street cred, since it features the iconic New Balance logo. Wears well with any NB sneaker!

Brush Back Circle Floral Graphic Crew

This girly crewneck is also designed with a super-soft brushed-back fleece to keep 'em undeniably comfy and cozy.

French Terry Small Logo Short

These soft shorts designed with an adjustable drawstring and side pockets are the ultimate school day uniform!

Queue Tee

Another stylish graphic tee option, this pick available in kids' sizes XS-XL pairs seamlessly with anything from jeans to gym shorts.

1. Actually Use Your Planner In 2025

We're not buying pretty planners just so they can collect dust on our desks or coffee tables anymore. Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin want you to get serious because they feel "it starts with planning." They don't mean the kind you eventually flake on either.

"Effective planning is key to maintaining balance and reducing burnout. Whether you're mapping out tasks, meetings, or events, dedicated time for preparation ensures focus and reduces stress," they say. In other words, "the more intentional you are in planning, the more productive you'll be," according to them.

Ever since I've been blocking out my tasks by hour in planner, I've been able to get more done without feeling overwhelmed by splitting my time between writing and being in mommy mode. Frazier and Pepin suggest that you "set weekly planning sessions" that consist of "30-60 minutes each weekend to map out your upcoming week."

This eventually "reduces decision fatigue, fosters a sense of control, and helps you start Monday with clarity and purpose," they add. Yes, this is a sign that you'll be breaking up with the dreaded 'Sunday scaries' if you follow their advice. "You'll feel proactive and grounded rather than reacting to the week as it unfolds," they agree.

2. Embrace A "Fake Commute" When Working From Home

One of Kayla Baum's tips is to switch up your routine if you're a remote worker. Rolling out of the bed at the last minute before logging on for work sounds appealing until you realize you're uninspired by your days. But, what is a "fake commute?"

"It mimics the structure of a traditional commute to establish a boundary between work and personal life. This could mean taking a walk around the block, doing a 10-minute guided meditation, or even just changing clothes at the end of the day," Baum mentions.

Based on her experience, she's found that "it works because it provides a psychological buffer, helping to separate work and home life." She feels it's "crucial for positive mental health and boosting productivity at work (and at home)."

You can also create a separate work space that's not in your bedroom to get work done! That's helped me tremendously so I'm not sleeping and working in the same area.

3. Focus On High-Impact Tasks

Similar to planning your work days as best as you can, Frazier and Pepin want you to "prioritize the tasks that align with your goals." To minimize distractions, they want you to ask yourself:

• What is the most effective use of my time right now?

4. Stop Making Daily Decisions Hard

Tasks like your morning routine or figuring out what you'll eat don't have to take up a chunk of your time anymore. "Use productivity hacks, such as pre-planning meals or laying out weekly outfits," suggest Frazier and Pepin. They feel that "small routines like this eliminate unnecessary choices" to "make mornings smoother."

According to them, it's "especially helpful for families juggling multiple schedules." I couldn't agree more because I've spent so many frazzled mornings trying to make decisions about what myself and my toddler would wear or eat instead of planning them. With the help of my fiancé, we've cut so much time in half by being prepared ahead of time instead of 'winging it' before work.

5. Understand What Your Boundaries Are And Set Them

Worried that you'll be considered 'mean' if you tell your manager or coworkers what your boundaries are at work? Depending on your environment, it's 100% understandable. However, you're human and there's no reason you should be over-performing to your detriment. Frazier and Pepin say, "Set boundaries and communicate clearly. Adopt Brené Brown's mantra: 'To be clear is to be kind.'"

They encourage you to not only "be upfront about your schedule to manage others' expectations," but it's also so you can "avoid over-commitment." Say it with me: I will not make false promises just to appease others. Why?

Frazier and Pepin say, "Don't be afraid to say no to side projects or anything that doesn't align with your goals."

6. Ignore Emails Sent After Your Work Hours

I've been guilty of sending an email after work to acknowledge that I saw something, but I never expect other people to feel obligated to respond until the next business day. On the flip side, I've felt pressured to answer something that feels timely and I've gone to sleep thinking about the sender's potential follow-up email.

"Just because a coworker chooses to work late at night doesn't mean you must answer. One helpful trick is to include your working days and hours in your signature, explaining that responses may be delayed outside of those times," Frazier and Pepin say. They even have a prompt you can use if you're not sure what to type:

• "My working hours are [Your Working Hours, e.g., 9 AM - 4 PM ET]. Please note that these may differ from your local time zone. I appreciate your understanding and will respond to emails during my working hours."

I can't wait to start utilizing this...for research purposes only 👀.

7. Please, log off from work when it's time.

Unless you're scheduled to work late, take the time to log off from work and not think about it until the next day. Baum says, "Commit to fully logging off once the workday ends—no 'quick email replies' or sneaking in work over the weekend." I'm eyeing you Ms. "I just need to send a quick email" while you're on vacation or spending time with your significant other.

Baum says creating this separation works because "fully disconnecting allows your mind to reset and recharge" which ends up "making you more efficient, creative, and focused during actual work hours." According to her, you'll eventually "improve personal well-being" and "enhance long-term work performance."

As soon as my work day is over, I make a beeline for the shower so I can decompress. After that, I take my time with my skincare routine and keep my phone out of reach so I'm not tempted to look at anything work-related. I'm not always successful, but I've noticed a difference in my mood since making this shift.

8. Speak Up When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

And if you're 100% drained because you've been trying to tackle work tasks during and after hours, Frazier and Pepin want you to speak up. "If you're feeling overwhelmed with your workload, approach your manager with honesty and a focus on solutions," they suggest. Here's another prompt of theirs you can use:

• "I've been noticing that my workload has extended beyond regular hours, and maintaining balance is becoming challenging. Could we discuss prioritizing tasks or adjusting expectations to ensure I can deliver quality work without compromising my well-being?"