I've Settled the Debate—Sambas Are Still "In" If You Wear Them Like This
You can still wear Sambas with jeans. Here's how Nicole Kidman just made them look chic.
Yes, Sambas and jeans are still a very viable outfit option in 2026. Just because these wear-with-everything trainers aren't quite as ubiquitous as they were a couple of years ago doesn't make them any less chic. In fact, I'd argue the opposite. Now that they've taken a slight step back from the spotlight, they feel all the more considered.
That said, keeping Sambas feeling current is all about how you style them. Whilst a pair of pooling wide-leg jeans with a Samba's signature rounded toe peeking out transports me back to 2024, swapping in a slimmer stovepipe jean gives the classic trainer a much fresher feel.
Making the case for the combination this week, Nicole Kidman reached for a pair of slim-fitting stovepipe jeans, which she anchored with a classic white pair of Adidas Sambas. Elevating the ensemble with a lustrous white satin blouse layered beneath a tailored grey blazer, Nicole combined one of this season's key denim silhouettes with a blouse trend that's been everywhere throughout summer 2026, creating a modern outfit with a timeless energy.
Whilst sneakerinas and chunky black trainers have been trending this season, I'm still backing one of the sleekest trainers around. If you're with me, keep scrolling to shop the Adidas Samba trainers below.
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Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.