2024 was the year trainers truly stole the spotlight, with fresh trends emerging every few months and innovative twists breathing new life into the classic models we know and love. Adidas Sambas made waves with bolder-than-ever colourways, leopard-print kicks stole our hearts and cult sportswear labels—Onitsuka Tiger and Gola among them—tightened their grip on the fashion world.
While it's been fun to expand our trainer horizons, 2025 presents an opportunity to fine-tune our footwear repertoires (and our wardrobes as a whole). This year, I’m setting the tone by focusing on the pieces I wear most often and truly value. When it comes to trainers, I tend to gravitate toward simple and timeless designs, prefering low-effort options over statement-making sneakers.
Having reflected on my favourite trainer styles, I've noticed they all share something in common: they go with all my favourite outfits. As someone who dresses quickly and intuitively, shoes that I can count on to slot seamlessly into my everyday looks are like gold dust. And I have a hunch I'm not the only one who treasures versatile footwear. Take a look at my go-to trainers below; I'm confident they'll find just as much use in your wardrobe as they do in mine.
SEE THE THREE TRAINER STYLES THAT GO WITH EVERYTHING:
1. Brown Trainers
Style Notes: Brown kicks were one of 2024's biggest trends—particularly tactile suede iterations—and they're showing serious staying power. It's no mystery why; the neutral colour means you won't have trouble matching them to your outfit, and brown feels a touch more expensive and polished than plain white trainers. If anything, I'm wondering why this wasn't a thing sooner.
Shop the Look:
Adidas has nailed the brown sneaker trend.
I'm into the sculptural sole.
Such a classy sneaker.
Everyone seems to be wearing Puma Speedcats this season.
Trust me, you'll reach for these constantly.
Wear with jeans, wide leg trousers, skirts and dresses.
So unique!
This colourway feels incredibly luxe.
2. Running Shoes
Style Notes: Runners are a cornerstone of the cool-girl wardrobe. Think sporty, chunky-soled kicks that wouldn't look out of place in the gym—but if you think they're reserved for the treadmill, think again. White, grey and beige running shoes serve as a comfy companion for all kinds of everyday look, from jeans-and-jumper formulas to maxi dress outfits.
Shop the Look:
I see these everytime I open Instagram.
This warm neutral will work with everything.
Picture these with a black knitted maxi dress.
Another core sneaker brand to have on your radar.
Take these from gym to brunch.
Nike is always a safe bet.
I'd wear these with thick white socks.
The epitome of understated cool.
3. Retro Kicks
Style Notes: My personal style is quite classic—I'm selective with trends and often look to ’60s and ’70s fashion for inspiration—so I'm partial to a retro-inspired sneaker. Nostalgic silhouettes tie in well with my wardrobe, with reimagined vintage models from Onitsuka Tiger and Adidas steadily working their way to the top of my 2025 wish list.
Shop the Look:
This Japanese trainer brand has fashion people swooning.
Use this playful hue to lift your minimal outfits.
I didn't know trainers could be this beautiful.
My most-worn sneakers. Fact.
The distressed detailing adds to the retro feel.
I love the idea of a khaki trainer—a unique but wearable update.
Everyday kicks.
Adidas always gets it right.
-
I'm a New Shopping Editor in NYC—These 31 Gorgeous Summer Nordstrom Finds Have My AttentionPS: Everything's under $150.
-
Red Who? Sorry, But Cool Fashion People Are Only Interested in Wearing Jeans With *This* Sneaker ColorIt's the new red (and yellow, green, and silver).
-
Adam Sandler–Coded Outfits Are Still Going Strong—5 Ways to Style Baggy Shorts This SummerFashion icon first. Comedian second.
-
It's Settled: This Is the #1 Sneaker Trend to Wear With Leggings This SummerConfirmed by Dakota Johnson.
-
The Adidas and Liberty London Collab Just Dropped, and the Samba Sneakers Will Sell OutCall me obsessed.
-
Not Skinny, Not Wide-Leg—the Specific Denim Trend Frequent Flyers Always Wear to the Airport With Sneakers"Just right" jeans.
-
Confirmed: This Is the Sneaker Color Fashion People Are Swapping Their White Pairs ForIt's true.
-
Anyone With Good Taste in Shoes Will Run to Order These New Adidas It SneakersDakota Johnson already did.
