If You’re Bored of Trainers, This is the Comfortable Alt the Chicest Dressers Are Wearing Instead
From new-season shorts to timeless trousers, here are all of the chicest ways to style the white derby shoe trend right now.
If you’ve found yourself reaching for the same pair of trainers day in, day out, you’re not alone—but I do want to put you onto a fresh alternative worth considering. Instead of leaning on your usual sneakers, those in the know are turning to white Derby shoes for a look that feels just as easy, but so much more refined.
Sleek, low-profile and finished with classic laces, they offer all the comfort of trainers with a smarter edge that elevates an outfit. And whilst the silhouette might feel familiar, their impact is entirely more chic.
As the trend starts to gain traction, I’ve pulled together a few simple styling ideas to show just how effortlessly they slot into a summer wardrobe.
3 Chic Ways to Style White Derby Shoes This Summer:
1. Denim Shirt + Long Shorts + White Derby Shoes
Style Notes: Longline shorts are set for a strong return this season, but instead of pairing them with laid-back trainers, consider elevating the look with white Derby shoes. Worn with a simple denim shirt, this easy, throw-on combination feels instantly sharper, thanks to the crisp finish of the Derbys.
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2. Blazer + Cigarette Trousers + White Derby Shoes
Style Notes: Whilst black trousers are a year-round staple, summer calls for a lighter, slightly cropped iteration. Styled with white Derby shoes, they lose the heaviness that full-length tailoring and boots can bring, instead offering a look that feels just as refined but far more seasonally appropriate. Add a blazer, and you have an outfit that’s polished yet breathable enough for warmer days.
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3. Textured Skirt + White Derby Shoes
Style Notes: Take cues from Charlize Theron and style your white Derbys with a textured skirt and a relaxed knit. The contrast between the structured shoe and tactile fabrics adds interest whilst highlighting the shoe’s versatility. A fresh way to approach summer dressing—simply swap them in for loafers or trainers, and watch your look become more directional.
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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.