While investing in a pair of trainers may not be quite as glamorous as other shoes or accessories, a good pair is essential in any staple wardrobe. With the rise of athleisure and more smart casual workwear, trainers can immediately transform any outfit to bring an effortless and cool edge to a more classic look. Once you’ve got a pair (or two) of trainers in your wardrobe that you’re obsessed with, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for them and choosing them over the more uncomfortable and impractical choices. From classic Converse to designer favourites, we’re here to help you find your next pair of timeless trainers.
Chuck Taylor All-Stars
First up, we have the absolute classic, the Chuck Taylor All-Stars. Converse dates back to 1917 when the first early basketball shoes were created, which developed over decades to become the All-Stars we know and love today. If they’ve been popular for over 100 years, it’s pretty certain that won’t change anytime soon. These high-top trainers, with the classic designs being either all black with white laces and rubber or all white with white laces and rubber, have stood the test of time.
CONVERSE
CdG x Chuck Taylor 70 Lo
$116
They go with everything, whether it’s gym leggings, a hoodie and a denim jacket for a weekend brunch look or for a unique twist on a dressier outfit. They’re comfortable, timeless and a must in any staple wardrobe. Plus, they’re very affordable as far as trainers go and you won’t be on any long waiting lists as you may be with some other trainers, just head to your local shopping centre in Leeds or London and you’ll be able to get a pair no problem.
Veja V-12’s
If you’re looking for a classic white trainer that you can wear with anything from very casual weekend wear to dressier work looks, then the Veja V-12s will be for you. They’re a simple white trainer with a beige-coloured rubber sole, and then there are various accent colours for the “V” and back detail, from nude to burgundy and grey to black. These are simple but highly effective trainers that you will find yourself reaching for over and over again. We especially love this trainer for smart casual workwear, pairing the nude V-12s with wide-leg nude trousers and an oversized cream jumper for such an effortless look.
VEJA
V-12 low-top sneakers
$165
Gucci Mac 80
For those of you wanting a similar effect to the Veja V-12s but wanting to spend a bit more on a designer pair, the Gucci Mac 80s will be for you. Costing around £660, these definitely aren’t an affordable choice, however, the classic white pair has extremely well-thought-through detailing and is the epitome of timeless fashion. These trainers also go way back (not quite as far as the Chuck Taylor All Stars), with the original launch in 1989 and the style remaining popular today. There is also a high-top version if that’s more your style.
Gucci
Mac 80 Women’s
£660
New Balance: 327
For a slightly chunkier trainer, the New Balance 327s are a great choice. They were only released in 2020, but they are retro-inspired in their design while remaining simple and classic. While they have risen in popularity over the last few years, we can tell that these are going to be a staple shoe that will stick around. Sitting at around £110 for a pair, these are accessible and a great quality shoe to choose for your staple wardrobe. Keep it simple with an all-cream pair, or add an accent colour if you like something a bit different from your shoe collection. In terms of styling, these are similar to Veja’s and Gucci’s, but with a bit more of a sporty twist. New Balance has become iconic in the last few years and continues to release new and exciting shoes, including their new Fresh Foam Hierroin, so keep your eye on this brand.
New Balance
New Balance 327 Women’s
$99
Superga 2750
If you’re looking for an all-white tennis-style shoe, the Superga 2750’s will be your go-to. As well as being really simplistic and classic in design, they will go with everything. Their design is really strong, with breathable cotton, making them lightweight yet durable, so you can wear and love them for years to come. With a price point of around £65 (often with promotions to get them at a much lower price), they are one of the more affordable options that are wardrobe classics.
Superga
2750 COTTON DENIM DESTROYED
$87
Adidas Samba
Last but certainly not least, we have the Adidas Samba. Originally designed as a football shoe back in 1949 with the iconic three stripes, they’ve evolved quite significantly since then into the ultimate smart casual trainer. The white and black design has become increasingly popular recently, with more people realising just how diverse this shoe can be. This isn’t a trendy shoe, though, as the design is one that has stood the test of time, so we know this will be a safe investment for long-term wear. With prices at around £90, this shoe is in the middle of the price range of the ones we’ve introduced today but will be worth the investment. They’re also extremely comfortable; if that’s something, that’s a must!
adidas
SAMBA OG WMNS “Halo Blue”
$132
