The Kicks: Vans Tiger Patchwork Sneakers [1]

The Price: $65

Why We Love Them: Like chocolate and pretzels, the combination of paisley print and Vans [2]'s classic checkerboard print is unexpectedly irresistible, as evidenced by the brand's latest release. The sneaker (which is available in the Sk8-Hi, Slip-On, and Era styles) pays homage to the DIY [3] movement with a quirky-cool patchwork design that looks as if it was plucked right from a dreamy mood board and customized just for us. It's that part that I love.

Sure, white sneakers have their go-with-everything appeal, but I'm more interested in sneakers [4] with personality — the kind that make the rest of my basics look not so basic, that make jeans and a T-shirt look like a whole outfit and not the afterthought they usually are. In that way, these Vans are more of a wardrobe upgrade, not just a sneaker, am I right?