Your trusty white trainers were fine for lockdown and the floral midi era that followed, but this season’s sneaker of choice is much bolder. It’s time to shelve your whites – bright and sporty colour-pop designs have taken over.
You may have already noticed them on the feet of It girls and influencers alike – they have figured out a block colour design will become just as hard working as your plain white pair.
If you’re wondering how to jump on the stealth trend, these are the five styles to buy and how to wear them.
How to look chic in coloured trainers
Adidas Samba
OK I said colours, but I can’t talk about It trainers and not mention the Sambas which technically still count as a point of difference. Originally launched as a men’s football shoe in the seventies, the Samba has gone from footie to fashion thanks to its TikTok rebrand as a wear-with-everything classic favoured by the likes of Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber.
In a step away from chunky styles this streamlined silhouette is elegant, but the stripes keep it casual. The style has sold out on most platforms thanks to its trending status, but you can still bag a monochrome pair at Net-A-Porter.
Wear yours with a nineties-inspired denim maxi skirt – go for one with a slit to break up the column shape and show a bit of leg. Tuck in a white ribbed tank top and add a jeans belt to tie the look together. Finally throw on some cat eye sunglasses and the trending Uniqlo crossbody – perfect accessories for bank holiday pub-hopping in the sun.
Adidas Gazelles
Gazelles may not look too dissimilar from the Samba, but the all-over suede, a higher midsole and the slightly longer tongue make this style subtly different from its flatter cousin – plus it’s easier to buy right now.
I have my eye on the fuchsia shade, Kermit green or even the tangerine in this silhouette, but any colour goes! I imagine myself running around in these when completing errands or heading out to brunch at the weekend. Counterbalance the super casual feel with the rest of your outfit and stick to straight cut denim that will skim the top of the trainer, rather than puddle around it.
I highly recommend Weekday’s extra high Rowe jeans in ‘Summer Blue’. Throw on a masculine oversized blazer in a neutral tone so as not to clash with your colourful footwear – Zara always stocks brilliant affordable tailoring. Layer a simple bodysuit underneath in white or black – or any other neutral – and add a large leather tote for all your essentials.
Nike Dunks
Nike Dunk lows are back on the scene thanks to a thirst for nostalgia and the clean retro look that this shoe supplies. The shade range is extensive, but my favourite is the vibrant yellow. This silhouette generally pairs best with laid back separates including cargo pants, baggy jeans and even sweatpants. Steer clear of skinny jeans or leggings when it comes to styling or risk looking out of proportion.
A utility trouser will work nicely – I have my eye on Nobody’s Child’s khaki pair made from organic cotton. Add a relaxed knit or hoodie with an eye-catching motif to keep the edgy aesthetic going, and throw on some chunky gold hoops to elevate the look. Choose a simple sleek shoulder bag for your final flourish and you’re good to go.
New Balance 550
If you’re more of a minimalist, this is the trainer for you. This timeless, mostly-white style will work with your neutral wardrobe well. Stick to staples to build the rest of your look.
Invest in the Levi’s 501 crop jeans – they will give that perfect gap of ankle above your 550’s and whilst the price tag isn’t small, you’ll be wearing them for years to come. Slip on a pair of ribbed sports socks for a laidback look – I suggest a pair with mood-boosting pastel stripes. Choose a striped half zip jumper for an effortlessly chic layer, then dig out your trench coat or try this double breasted iteration from Monki. Finally add WNU’s cap in washed navy – it’s giving Succession – for that cool-girl preppy edge.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 9s
Known for producing some of the best running shoes on the market, Asics also supply the best ‘dad’ trainers around too. Whilst the name of this style sounds as though it was plucked straight out of the Harry Potter franchise, I adore this pretty pastel colour combination – perfect for the summer months to come.
Plus, they’re ultra-comfortable which makes them great for storming around festivals or for picnics in the park. I’ll be wearing mine with hyper-feminine maxi and midi sundresses to contrast the chunkiness – Free People is the ultimate dress destination for this kind of aesthetic. To ramp up the flirty edge further add some frill edge socks, a Parisian raffia woven bag and some statement seventies-inspired sunnies.
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