Make trainers your go-to summer shoes by embracing them with sunshine-ready dresses for an effortlessly put-together look.
Once upon a time trainers may have been solely reserved for sports and gyms but, thankfully, things have changed and now the comfort-first shoes are as much part of our wardrobes as jeans and tailoring.
I don’t know about you, but my love for trainers is down to two key factors. The first being that they’re entirely versatile, and the second being that they make me feel comfortable all day long. So much so, in fact, that there isn’t an outfit I can’t finish off with the right pair of trainers, whether it be a smart tailored look, casual loungewear, or a dress. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I wore actual shoes because trainers have had my sartorial back for such a long time.
Trainers with jeans has become a natural default, so has trainers with leggings, wide-legged trousers, slip skirts and denim shorts. But there is something particularly stylish about trainers with dresses. (Thank you, Lily Allen).
Now, unlike jeans this isn’t a one trainer fits all scenario. There are certain nuances that have to be factored in when deciding which trainers to pair with your dress. You have to consider the length of the dress, the fabric, whether it’s printed or plain, and how much detail there is already on the dress (is it covered in ruffles or is it a simple slip dress?) before working out exactly what kind of trainer will work best.
A high-top trainer works well with mini dresses as opposed to midi dresses while a chunky trainer looks great with a maxi dress, and if there’s lots going on with your dress, then stick to a classic tennis shoe. Who ever said style was simple?
If you’re ready to take on this key summer style pairing, then we’ve rounded up the best trainers to wear with dresses this summer and… well, forever.
Adidas Ozweego trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Adidas Adidas’ Ozweego was one of its most popular running shoes in the 90s. Now, the shoe has been re-envisioned for leisurewear but maintains the same comfort and cushioning round in the original. One part chunky, one part colourful, this pair is ideal for linen midi dresses.
Adidas Stan Smith vegan trainers
Adidas Stan Smith vegan trainers It doesn’t get more classic than Adidas’ Stan Smith trainers. Consider these trainers an investment buy as they will work with every single dress in your wardrobe time and time again.
New Balance 827 trainers
New Balance 827 trainers Industry insiders cant get enough of chunky New Balance trainers, so much so, they sell out almost as quick as theyre restocked. Team yours with a floral midi dress for an instant hit of cool.
Clarks Un Maui lace blush trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Clarks Comfort well and truly meets style with Clarks’ leather trainers. Coming in a soft blush pink, we’ll be wearing ours with denim dresses for the day and smart shirt dresses in the evening.
Converse All Star Hi 70s trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Converse Fans of trainers with dresses will know that Converse are always a good idea. Mix up your look by teaming your simple white summer dress with a pair of floral All Stars instead.
Balenciaga Triple S white mesh and leather sneakers
Balenciaga Triple S white mesh and leather sneakers For statement trainers, Balenciaga’s chunky Triple-S continues to rule the footwear game. A firm favourite amongst industry insiders, the newest version of this trainer comes in an easier-to-wear neutral palette. We’ll be wearing ours with a ditsy floral maxi dress.
Superga Cotu classic trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Superga Italian footwear brand, Superga, are known for their simple canvas shoe, but don’t be fooled: their fashion credentials are right up there thanks to collaborations with Alexa Chung, Mary Katrantzou and LoveShackFancy. Try Superga’s pistachio trainer with an embroidered dress.
Shop Cotu classic trainers at Superga, £38.50 (previously £55)
Veja V-10 trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Veja Meghan Markle, Emma Watson and Victoria Beckham are all fans of vegan footwear brand, Veja. We love the minimalist appeal of this particular pair, which will work perfectly with a brightly coloured maxi dress.
Reebok Club C trainers
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Reebok A classic tennis shoe never goes out style, and, better still, they work with every dress style. Team yours with your go-to black sundress with brightly coloured jewellery.
Nike Air Max 95 trainers
Nike Air Max 95 trainers The ice lolly shades on Nike’s Air Max 95 trainers are giving us a real summer feeling. For a retro look, wear yours with a 90s-style slip dress.
Gucci
Best trainers to wear with dresses: Gucci Gucci’s statement chunky trainer pack a real fashion punch. Wear yours with a simple maxi dress and basket bag when summer hits.
Shop Gucci Rhyton logo-print leather sneakers at Net-a-Porter, £705
Images: Getty / courtesy of brands