The trainer trend is most definitely here to stay – no longer just for sports; trainers are literally everywhere! Our feet can breathe a sigh of relief from being wedged into uncomfortable shoes and punished by teetering heels. Even high-end designers like Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin, always known for their signature vertiginous creations, have fully embraced the trainer styles (and flats in general). So, I now find clients often ask me about styling trainers.
If you haven’t yet dipped your toe in the trend, are still saving them for the gym, or are looking for some inspiration for a new pair to update your wardrobe, here are my style tips for choosing the best for you.
Styling Trainers:
The hard-working all-rounder
If you want something that will generally be flattering on most shapes and leg lengths and go with pretty much any outfit, a simple white leather (whether real or vegan) trainer could be for you! This lo-top style (that finishes on the top of the foot rather than the ankles) is my favourite for dressing down a summer frock, adding a modern look to tailoring for work and elevating a casual jeans and t-shirt look.
Most brands do a version of this popular style, but I particularly like this very simple ‘Allie’ pair from Mint Velvet (£99)
The Colourful One
At the other end of the spectrum, if you want to inject some colour into your outfit, a bold trainer is a great way to do it. Plenty of brands have embraced creative colourways. Adidas, Oliver Bonas, Nike, and Vans do this well, so be brave and move away from white and neutrals. How amazing does this model and Instagrammer Grece Ghanem look in her tonal lilac outfit and trainers – sorry, I don’t know what brand these are!
The Ugly One!
Okay, this trend may not be for everyone (that includes me!), but there’s no escaping the so-called ‘Dad’ trainers that have popped up. Often sported with white socks by the super-cool girls, this really is a retro look.
The trick here is to go as chunky as your body frame might suggest works. The chunkier the shoe, the bigger it will make your feet appear – although, weirdly, they can make your legs look slimmer, so it’s all about playing with proportions!
The New Balance 608s epitomise this look, but sportswear stalwarts Fila and Reebok are a good bet, and high-street brands like H&M have also got their own take.
The not-so-well-known brands
Most of us will associate Reebok, Nike, Adidas, and Vans with trainers as they’re the original sports brands, and the likes of Veja (good eco stats), Superga (good for narrow feet), and Hush (relaxed style) are becoming popular. It’s sometimes nice to go for a less well-known brand for something a bit different. I recently discovered Hoff, a Spanish brand with an emphasis on design. They have an extensive range with something for everyone.
Their City trainer sees shoes named after cities across the world (including Reading!) I like the Bilbao, with its subtle tones. These would look great with good jeans and a trench for a chic look.
Don’t rule out pre-loved
Due to their popularity, trainers can be an expensive investment, so pre-loved is a great option. If you know your size in a brand you love, it can make it easy to search for bargains on pre-loved sites such as Vinted (so many to choose from) and Vestiaire Collective (great for designer styles) – often brand new with tags.
Locally, we are lucky to have some fabulous dress agencies that are worth a visit, too. In Felpham village, we have Déjà vu, who often have a good selection of trainers. I love Willow & Eve pre-loved, with shops in Rustington and Arundel. They currently have this bling pair from Michael Kors for sale on their website.
If you need help styling trainers to fit your lifestyle, get in touch. I can help you find the perfect fit.
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