You may have seen the recent trend for fashionable trainers, where trainers are bringing  a new, comfortable yet stylish option to our wardrobes. Can these replace heels, or are they still a faux pas? Let’s get into some of the options, and how you can work those comfy shoes into your workwear, where appropriate!

The Classic White Trainer

We all know and love our trainers, and we probably have all had or currently have a pair, but if you’re wondering how to pair your trainers with more than just jeans and a t-shirt then start to dip your toe with a classic white style. These pair with so many outfits, and can work in the office or whilst running between meetings. I think they work beautifully with a jumpsuit, mid-length skirt, or even with a suit – trust me, you’ll appreciate the clean look of your white trainers matched with a power suit!

These style of trainers, when you are looking for work-appropriate look, work best with a touch of colour on the outfit, as they then pair less outlandishly than with a black outfit. You could also test out the monochrome look by pairing your white trainers with an all-white outfit for a clean, fresh style option.

The Dad Sneaker Trend

Now, this is one of the “trendy” options, but one that many of us may be cringing about! The “Dad Trainer” or “Ugly Trainer” trend is one we have seen many millennials add to their shoe collections, but it is a tricky trend for us to add to our workwear. 

With chunky accents, and oftentimes with colourful accents, the dad shoes feel more like a running shoe with an edge. You can pair these with a range of outfits, including the midi skirt trend (as worn above), or even with a classic LBD to keep your elegant styling on the top and the comfortable shoes on the bottom.

These silver Dad style shoes keep their cool with the space-age feel and pair excellently with a mini or midi dress.

Now you have seen the hardest of the sneakers to add, I promise you the rest are slightly more easy to implement!

Colourful Trainers

Now, colourful trainers are much more useable in your workwear wardrobe and are a great way to add a touch of colour!

From the beautiful blush tones of these Nike trainers, to the primary colours of these Vans, you can find a huge range of colourful trainers across different styles.  Colourful trainers are just as user friendly as your colourful stilettos, they work well with a black pair of capris, as well as pulling the colours in your shoes to match your outfit for a monotone style that is always a classic.

For a less “in your face” look, why not start with a little bit of a pattern with clean white trainers and a patterned tongue, styled with a knitted black skirt and warm jumper – perfect for brunch, or at a more relaxed workplace. Great for the cooler months to help you feel cosy, comfortable, yet stylish.

Platform Trainers

If you are one who loves the height your heels give to you, then platform trainers are a great go-to. There are so many ranging options, from the smart platforms that can be found in places such as Office and ASOS, to the more quirky patterned options that can add a little bit of personality to your footwear. One of my clients has a fantastic pair of white platform trainers she found with sequined pineapples – they show off the pineapple only when she is wearing cropped trousers or a skirt, whilst adding the height she loves to get.

Pairing your trainers with a dress may feel out of your comfort zone, but with the right dress, you can truly let your style do the talking. The t-shirt dress trend is a quick and comfortable way to create an outfit with your platforms, or you can dress up your LBD with a pair of platform trainers, and statement accessories for a day to night look in a flash.

They also work beautifully with a suit, particularly when you pick the colours from the suit and make sure they are in the trainers too, whether you go for a cropped trouser or for longer lengths with the bottom of the platform just peeking through, you can truly give this style a go with whichever styling you feel confident in.

With the huge range of option available, you can truly match your personal style with the shoes that suit your needs best, whilst adding the wonderful comfort they bring. Now, you may be a heels aficionado, but if your feet are crying for a comfortable yet work-suitable option, then why not give yourself a chance to try out this new trend, your commute may thank you for it!

If you are feeling unsure on where to start, or are looking for support with your work wardrobe, I’d love to help! I provide a personal styling service, which includes personal shopping that sings true to your personal style, as well as your needs.