White Trainers Don’t Elevate Jeans Like They Used to—5 Alts to Wear Instead

If you've also Googled "alternatives to white trainers" in the past few days, you're not alone.

There was a time when white trainers were practically the only shoes I wore. Running errands? White trainers. Heading to the office? White trainers. Trying to make a dress feel more relaxed? You get the idea. Their appeal is obvious—they go with everything, they never feel too try-hard, and they've been a solid wardrobe staple for years.

But recently, I've found myself wanting something… different. Not a complete departure from the ease of a white trainer, but an update, something with a little more character. If you're feeling the same, you might be on the hunt for alternatives to white trainers. And trust me: there are plenty of great options.

It's not that white trainers don’t still work—they do. But after seasons of heavy rotation, they can sometimes feel a little predictable, especially when you lean towards a minimalist wardrobe like me. I've noticed the same sentiment from a few of our Gen Z editors, which, honestly, surprised me. If anyone was going to be over our classic, reliable millennial shoe of choice, I assumed it would be them.

But no—they've embraced white trainers just as much as us, integrating them into their trend-heavy wardrobes in a way that makes them feel fresh again. The difference? They're not only wearing white trainers. Instead, they're also reaching for more classic shoes in general—like boat shoes and ballet flats—in ways that feel relaxed and relevant.

The runways backed this up, too. The spring/summer 2026 shows saw a return to simple, wear-forever footwear. At Bottega Veneta, newly incumbent creative director Louise Trotter debuted slipper-like flats styled with textured, feathered coats, proving they can feel as statement-making as a towering heel. At Miu Miu, a new collection with New Balance offset frilly apron tops and utilitarian layering. Elsewhere across Paris at Celine, Michael Ryder reintroduced derbys into the sartorial stratosphere, with early adopters including Tracee Ellis Ross. And whilst loafers and Mary Janes continue to have their moment, I've got my eye on five other classics that offer the same versatility as a white trainer but with a little more personality.

Of course, practicality still plays a part. I need something that can handle long days of walking, commuting and running between meetings without sacrificing style. And lo and behold, after some research (Instagram-stalking my favourite fashion people), I've found five alternatives that fit the bill, each offering a different take on everyday dressing. Some lean more polished, others more casual, but all are just as easy to wear as a white trainer.

Keep reading for my suggestions.

5 Chic Alternatives to White Trainers:

1. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: I'll admit that boat shoes weren't on my radar until recently. For years, they felt a little too "summering in the Hamptons," but the new wave of styles is far less preppy and instead, more wearable. Softer leathers, slightly chunkier soles and a more relaxed shape make them feel less "yacht club" and more effortlessly cool. I've been styling mine with slouchy trousers and an oversized knit—an easy way to balance out their slightly polished feel. They also work surprisingly well with denim shorts and a crisp white tee for a low-key spring outfit that still feels considered.

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2. Birkenstock Boston Clogs

Style Notes: If you've been on Instagram at all in the last year, you've seen the Birkenstock Boston Clog. Whilst they're not new, their appeal isn't fading anytime soon. They have that cool, slightly undone vibe that makes any outfit look considered—even if you're just wearing them to grab coffee. I like to contrast their chunkiness with something softer—think a silky slip skirt and a lightweight knit. They also work well with baggy denim and a simple tank for a more relaxed feel.

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3. Clarks Wallabees

Style Notes: Wallabees have always had a bit of a cult following, but lately, I'm seeing them everywhere. There's something about their slightly retro, '70s feel that makes them so interesting. They're casual but not sloppy, classic but not boring—the perfect middle ground. Fashion people are wearing them with wide-leg trousers and a simple tee to let the shoes do the talking. They also pair well with longer skirts for that cool, unexpected proportion play.

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4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ballet flats are everywhere again, and I couldn't be more thrilled. They're simple, classic and work with just about everything. But this time around, they feel less elegant and more lived-in—perfect for dressing up or down. I love the contrast of ballet flats with oversized pieces like loose jeans, slouchy tailoring and structured blazers. They also look great with cropped trousers and a lightweight knit for something a little more classic.

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5. Derbys

Style Notes: Perhaps the most fitting alternative for white trainers is the flat shoe trend that resembles them most—derbys. The traditionally masculine shoe has been softened for a new age, making it a suitable counter for looks that are after a structured element, though aren't interested in the technical nature of sneakers. Wear with jeans and a silk scarf à la Celine's spring 2026 runway.

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