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There was a time when trainers were purely practical – the workhorses of the wardrobe, reserved for gyms, commutes and weekend errands.
But that all changed 15 years ago, when Phoebe Philo stepped out to take a bow at the end of her Celine show in a pair of crisp white Adidas Stan Smiths.
Suddenly, trainers weren’t just casual, they were aspirational.
But fast-forward to 2025 and I’m afraid to tell you that those humble, entry-level white trainers simply no longer cut it. Just as handbags and denim evolve, so too must your trainers. The once-coveted white Vejas we all saved for now signal something far worse than being merely practical; they’re unfashionable.
But worry not, here is my guide to the five new trainer styles that will keep you a step ahead of the fashion pack this autumn.
BRILLIANT BRIGHTS
Now that trainers have officially had enough of playing it safe, brilliant bold colours are everywhere this season.
There is nothing off limits – luminous orange, hot pink, bright blue, blood red – anything goes. I’m a huge fan of shoes that don’t take themselves too seriously and these are exactly that. Go for Alohas, Adidas – or this £16 pair from George at Asda.
CLASSY BROWN SUEDE
The fashion crowd loves a ‘Pantone Colour of the Year’, so it’s no surprise that ‘Mocha Mousse’ hued trainers are everywhere.
These understated suede styles are probably the easiest to step into if you are struggling with shades other than white. Of course, Dries van Noten’s £395 leather and suede sneakers are what you’re really after, but thankfully the High Street has nailed some great alternatives from just £39.99. Go for something clean and simple – the less branding, the better.
FASHION MEETS FUNCTION
If you want to look sporty without breaking a sweat, this is the style for you.
Technical trainers are everywhere – New Balance running shoes and Salomon-style hikers now come with a fashion twist.
They’ve got allthe comfort of a proper performance shoe, but with colours and details that are stylish enough to wear and slip on with your tailored trousers. You can definitely wear them on a night out with the girls, too.
TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Animal print has long featured in denim and accessories, but now it’s making a confident move into footwear. It started last year when Adidas and Wales Bonner unveiled their textured leopard-print trainers.
Zebra stripes, snakeskin and spots are adding just the right amount of excitement to tame looks. I love New Look’s offering – they’re completely wearable and look a lot more expensive than £39.99.
SHINY METALLICS
Metallics are set to become your new neutral, I can promise you, and it’s silver that’s leading the charge.
These shiny shoes are an easy way to add an up-to-date element to your otherwise boring jeans and white T-shirt, and they’re also jazzy enough to be teamed with evening wear.
Don’t be dauntedby the high shine, just stick to classic shapes – think tennis styles or retro runners – and avoid high-tops at all costs!
