7 elegant trainer outfits prove that the cool-girl staple is so much more than just practical
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 Breasted Relaxed Blazer
Reformation
Tallulah Ribbed Sweater Tank
A sleeveless knitted tank will see you through to spring.
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.
MÉTIER
Market Small Suede Tote
Bring the look together with a matching bag.
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.
M&S Collection
Pure Linen Palazzo Trousers in Ecru
These come in three lengths to suit all heights.
COS
Pure Cashmere Jumper in Beige/Undyed
Drape over your shoulders for a polished look.
Puma
Arizona Trainers in Intense Red Frosted Ivory
I love these so much, I've ordered them myself.
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.
