I must admit, although I’m a fashion editor and love boots, flats and heels as much as the next person, I would happily wear trainers every day of the week.
This is partly down to their practicality and partly down to their ability to make almost any outfit feel instantly cooler. In fact, I believe there are very few looks that aren’t made better by a great pair of trainers. Before you start throwing controversial trainer outfits at me; yes, a ball gown and trainers may be a step too far (sadly, we aren’t all Rihanna), however, a dress with trainers can be incredibly chic, proving it only takes a few thoughtful style choices to many any trainer outfit stylish.
If you’ve previously thought trainers can’t be paired with your favourite classic pieces, allow me to prove you wrong. This season, some of the biggest trainer trends make the perfect pairings for more polished, sophisticated looks, and I’ve found the inspiration to back it up, from trainers with suits to old-money-inspired cardigans and kicks.
Plus, unlike ballet flats or slingbacks, which tend to lend a more refined aesthetic, trainers take your wardrobe staples somewhere much cooler and unexpected for a stylish take on high-low dressing. Keep scrolling to see how it’s done.
7 ELEGANT OUTFITS WITH TRAINERS, AS CHOSEN BY A FASHION EDTIOR
1. Tonal Trouser Suit + Trainers
Style Notes: I firmly believe that there’s no outfit more polished and put-together than a sleek trouser suit, so it’s the perfect base to elevate your trainers. For a cohesive feel, keep the look tonal as Nina Lea Jolley has above, and finish with classic accessories like a simple belt and shoulder bag.
Shop the Look:
Nobody’s Child
Chocolate Brown Double Pleated Trousers
Re-work these without the matching blazer for even more styling options.
Adidas
Gazelle Indoor Trainers in Earth Strata White Gold Metallic
The suede finish gives these trainers an elevated feel.
2. Button-Down Shirt + Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: There’s something eternally elegant about a shirt and trousers combo, whether paired with loafers, ballet flats or even trainers. Here, Vanessa Rose Blair has opted for light linen fabrics to create a look that’s perfect for spring and summer, but you could also re-create it with wool trousers to wear whilst it’s still chilly.
Shop the Look:
With Nothing Underneath
The Boyfriend: Linen in Grapefruit Pink
This lightweight shirt can also double as a beach cover-up come summer.
3. Jumper + Slip Skirt + Trainers
Style Notes: Francesca Saffari gives us a lesson on how to dress down a satin slip skirt for everyday wear. Her oversized knit and skirt combination feels chic and timeless thanks to its simple shapes and cosy colour palette, whilst the statement trainers turn the pared-back look into a fashion moment.
Shop the Look:
adidas Originals
SL 72 OG Shoes in Maroon / Almost Yellow / Preloved Brown
An influencer-approved style.
4. Trench Coat + Black Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: As all fashion people know, a trench coat is one of the hardest working (and most elegant) outerwear styles you can have in your collection. I love how Monikh Dale has paired hers with a simple tee, trousers and contrasting trainers for a look that feels effortless.
Shop the Look:
COS
Relaxed Wide Leg Trousers in Black
These trousers are smart enough for the office but also work for everyday wear.
Adidas
SL 72 OG Shoes in Dark Brown / Cloud White / Gum
All the cool girls are wearing Adidas.
5. Cardigan + White Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: If you only invest in one trainer trend right now, make it a high-shine silver pair. The statement finish may seem intimidating but it’s the perfect way to elevate even the most classic looks, as Debora Rosa proves above.
Shop the Look:
Hush
Relaxed Boyfriend Jeans
Don’t save your white jeans for summer; pair them with darker tones now for a chic look.
6. Blazer + Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: Want to make your jeans and trainers outfit feel more elegant? Whether you’re heading to the office, running errands or having brunch with friends, there’s no outfit a blazer can’t elevate. Just look to Sarah Louise Blythe (above) for inspiration.
Shop the Look:
John Lewis
Heat Generating Long Sleeve Roll Neck Thermal Top in Ivory
Wear alone or layer under a jumper.
Abercrombie & Fitch
High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean in Medium With Mini Cuff Hem
The cuffed hems make these jeans feel much more considered.
7. Knitted Dress + Trainers
Style Notes: A favourite look of street style stars, I’m a huge fan of a knitted dress worn with trainers. Here, Thandi Maqubela gives her classic Adidas Stan Smiths an upgrade by pairing them with contrasting green tones for a dose of spring-ready colour.