Hold Up: There's a Controversial New It Trainer in Town, and Celebs Are Already Hooked

Although they originally started as a functional sports shoe, trainers have solidified themselves as a staple in almost every fashion person’s wardrobe. Both comfortable and stylish, trainers have the ability to change the tone of your look in a way no other shoe can, and as someone who practically lives in them all year round, I’m always on the lookout for emerging trends, colours and styles to add to my collection. From Adidas' cult Sambas to New Balance 530s, sporty trainers have become a key part of all my summer outfits. However, I never expected this particular trainer brand to win me over, let alone celebs and influencers.
Designed as a running shoe, On's Cloud Mesh Sneakers have an interesting-looking sole made of ventilation holes intended to add cushion and support when you're pounding the pavements or paths. This, in turn, makes them the perfect pick for those who love adding an elevated chunky trainer to their outfits. It seems many people are after just that, too, as the sneakers have been all over my Instagram feed recently, worn not only as typical sports gear but as a stylish option for casual looks too. Although I wasn't fully convinced at first, the more I see these polarising sneakers on the fashion scene, I'm slowly becoming convinced that they just might be the playful touch my summer wardrobe needs.
On uses something called CloudTec technology in its sneakers to help them absorb impact for long-wearing, all-day comfort. Available in a myriad of colourways and designs, the Zurich-based brand managed to bag itself a chic collab with Loewe at the end of last year (which, to be honest, has only further convinced me I want a pair for myself).
Genuinely, not a day goes by when I don't see people in London wearing these trainers on my commute. Whether you rate them for running purposes only or are tempted to see how they work with your everyday outfits, scroll on to see how celebrities and fashion influencers are styling these divisive trainers, then shop the pairs that might have won me over for summer…
How to Style On Mesh Sneakers
Styling her green On Mesh Sneakers with lightweight cargos and a classic tank top, Michelle Li shows that they're not just for sports.
EmRata proves that a bold-coloured trainer can add a playful twist to any monochrome outfit. Simply add a chic pair of sunglasses for that off-duty-model look we all love.
Grece Ghanem shows us how to wear the trainers as casual athleisure, pairing them with a comfy hoodie and colourful leggings.
J.Lo's On sneakers add an elevated twist to the usual jeans and T-shirt combo I find myself in year-round.
Shop On Mesh Sneakers:

As WWW UK’s editorial assistant, Brittany focuses on creating compelling fashion and beauty content for site. She supports the fashion team on shoots and with styling, and works closely with the Managing Editor on recurring columns and franchises. With a particular passion for fragrance—and a personal collection to match—she has a passion for all things fashion, beauty and lifestyle related.
Prior to Who What Wear, Brittany worked as the Shopping Assistant at Reach Plc and across a number publications, including OK!, Notebook, S Mag and The Mirror. In this role, she was responsible for creating on-site beauty and fashion content, compiling shopping grids and campaigns for the print magazine as well as filmed and edited weekly video content for the brand’s social media account.
-
If You Want to Freshen Up Your Shoe Collection, Start With These 33 Sneakers, Kitten Heels, and Flats
Sending my apologies to your wallet.
-
31 Fall Fashion and Beauty Picks I'm Prioritizing Over My Bills (Kidding… Kind Of)
These items are worth breaking all the rules for.
-
These Are the It Sneakers Celebrities Love to Wear With Baggy Pants and Jeans
Every It girl's go-to.
-
Bella Hadid Just Wore the $160 Designer-Passing White Sneakers That Will Sell Out by September 1
Hurry, there are only a few sizes left.
-
Enjoy Your End-of-Summer Ice Cream Trips in These 26 Chic Pieces From J.Crew, Nordstrom, and Zara
Keep cool without sacrificing style.
-
Cue the Makeover Montage: My Bestie Wants a Closet Refresh, so I Sent This List of 11 Must-Have Basics
Lace-trimmed skirts and mesh ballet flats ahead.
-
My Sister Keeps Taking My Jeans and Sneakers, so I'm Having Her Get Her Own—32 Chic Picks I Highly Recommend
You can't go wrong with this classic duo.
-
I'm Bored With My Sneakers—7 Outdated Styles I'm Swapping With These Cool Nordstrom Picks
Dua Lipa knows what's up.