Neil Young thinks it's better to burn out than to fade away, but what if a trend does neither? Some fashion trends end up sticking around long enough to earn a permanent place in our wardrobes. The sneaker-ballet flat hybrid has officially entered this category. To name but a few excellent variants: the Puma Speedcat Ballet Sneaker, the Adidas Taekwondo Mei, the Miu Miu Gymnasium Leather Ballerina, and the Onitsuka Tiger Gymnarina Ballet Flat. They've all continued to resonate well beyond the traditional trend cycle.

Emily Ratajkowski offered the latest proof of this shoe style's longevity. She styled her Puma Speedcat Ballet Sneakers ($100) with a black boatneck T-shirt and a black midi skirt—a simple combination that let the hybrid shoes do all the talking. Her Pumas are comfy, cute, and easy to style with a million different outfits. What more could you ask for? Scroll down to shop her exact pair, as well as other versions of the now-classic style.

On Emily Ratajkowski: Puma Speedcat Ballet Python II Sneakers ($100)

Shop Emily Ratajkowski's Exact Shoes

Shop Other Sneaker-Ballerina Hybrids

Chunky sneakers are great, but they're not always the best choice for a particular outfit. If you want to still wear sneakers but desire something more elevated, look no further than the viral pair Julia Garner just wore. She opted for Puma ballet sneakers, which have also been dubbed "sneakerinas." Yes, you read that correctly. Gen Z is always popularizing something fun to express themselves, and this trend is no exception.

Garner paired the Puma Speedcat Ballet Flats with her casual-cool T-shirt outfit. The rest of her look consisted of a navy graphic tee styled with a pair of green barrel pants. Had she worn a pair of chunkier sneakers, this look wouldn't have been as chic, IMHO, and the contrast of the baggy pants with the pretty sneakers is key. The pink-and-black sneakerinas do just the trick to make this outfit look trend-forward.

Keep scrolling to re-create Garner's chill, laid-back look and shop more Puma Speedcat ballet sneakers—the It sneakers that are retaining their buzz after selling out everywhere last year.

On Julia Garner: Puma Speedcat Ballet Sneakers ($90)

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Shop More Puma Speedcat Ballet Sneakers

With winter finally coming to an end in New York City, spring sneakers are top of mind for a lot of people ready to put away their snow boots and other cold-weather shoes, so I decided to browse what’s in stock at Nordstrom.

Personally, when I wear sneakers, I tend to gravitate toward pairs that look less like traditional sneakers and sometimes more like flats or Mary Janes. The XT-6 sneakers from Salomon have been go-tos for years, and I’m also a fan of the Gender Inclusive RX Moc 3.0 Slip-On Sneaker from the brand. I’ve been considering the $100 Gel-1130 Sneaker from Asics as well. For my dream pair, the Plume Mary Jane Ballet Flat Sneaker from Miu Miu is at the top of my wish list.

While scrolling through Nordstrom’s selection, I saw a range of options, from under-$100 to designer. Highlights include the Taekwondo Shoe and Tokyo Sneaker from Adidas, the Speedcat Ballet Sneaker from Puma, and the Sheryl Sneaker from Shushop. There’s also the Lace Up Sneaker from Coach for $145 and the Hank Field Sneaker from Tory Burch for $250. For more luxury options, I found the Orbit Flash Mary Jane Sneaker from Bottega Veneta, the Plume Satin Low Top Sneaker from Miu Miu, and the Collapse Mixed Media Low Top Sneaker from Prada.

Below, shop the on-trend sneakers at Nordstrom for spring 2026.

Shop Sneakers at Nordstrom

I have March 20 circled on my calendar as the first day of spring. While the style set settles on which trends are in and which are out, the outfit formula that consistently delivers is the effortless sneaker-and-jeans look. Its reliability and practicality make it a shoo-in with the fashion crowd. Not to mention it's the perfect way to show off your sneaker collection. My recent addition: the Adidas Tokyo shoe. According to our editors, the slim profile is a top sneaker trend to wear with jeans in 2026. Other standout spring 2026 sneakers trends include soft suedes, bright colors, and sleek whites.

A successful sneaker-and-jeans outfit is in tune with current trends but still genuine to the wearer and features well-fitting denim and a laissez-faire approach to styling. Think a flannel tied around the waist, stacked ankles, mixed washes, cuffed hems, the list goes on… The best denim to wear with sneakers, IMO, is the kind that makes you feel confident. I say ignore the trends and shop for what makes you feel good. But if you are looking to experiment, you can't go wrong with '90s-style baggy or slim-straight jeans.

Scroll on for spring 2026 outfit inspiration, from aura-affirming Canadian tuxedos to classic blue jeans and white sneakers to a trendy double-lace-and-white-denim 'fit. Ahead, the 15 chic sneaker-and-jeans outfits you'll spot all spring long.

15 Chic Sneaker-and-Jeans Outfits to Wear Spring 2026

1. Lo-Pro Sneakers + Classic Baggy + White Tee

Get the look: Baggy jeans + slim white sneakers + denim button-down + white tee + straw tote

2. Adidas Gazelle + Blue Jeans + Baseball Cap

Get the look: Blue high-waisted straight-leg jeans + Adidas sneakers + chore coat + white long-sleeve + sunglasses + baseball cap

3. Adidas SL 72 + Cuffed Jeans + Woven Bag

Get the look: Cuffed jeans + Adidas SL 72s + denim jacket + chunky knit tied around the waist + woven shoulder bag

4. Colorful Trainers + Distressed Denim + Sweater

Get the look: Low-rise light-wash distressed jeans + Dries van Noten sneakers + blue tee + gray sweater + beaded necklace

5. Black Sneakers + White Denim + Barn Coat

Get the look: White denim + black tee + chore coat + The Row bag + double-lace black sneakers

6. All-White Sneakers + Barrel-Leg + Shopper Tote

Get the look: Barrel-leg jeans + Copenhagen Studio sneakers + mesh shopper tote + white button-down pendant necklace

7. Adidas Tokyo + Low-Rise + Flannel

Get the look: Low-rise light-wash distressed denim + Adidas Tokyo shoes + flannel tied around the waist + suede shoulder bag + vest + white tee + sunglasses

8. Brown Sneakers + Straight-Leg Jeans + Leather Jacket

Get the look: Straight-leg jeans + white tee + leather jacket + Miu Miu beret hat + Adidas SL 72s + large leather tote

9. Puma Speedcats + White Wide-Leg Jeans + Trench Coat

Get the look: White denim + gray sweater + trench coat + Puma Speedcat sneakers + mini shoulder bag + sunglasses

10. Chunky Trainers + Super-Baggy + Windbreaker

Get the look: Belted baggy jeans + windbreaker + graphic tee + top handle bag + chunky sneakers

11. Slip-On Vans + Vintage-Inspired Jeans + Denim Jacket

Get the look: Calvin Klein jeans + denim jacket + gray hoodie + white tee + Vans Slip-On

12. Adidas Sambas + Light-Wash Jeans + Track Jacket

Get the look: Light-wash jeans + track jacket + bowling bag + Adidas sambas

13. Double Lace + High-Rise Denim + White Tee

Get the look: High-waisted jeans + white tee + double-lace suede sneakers

14. Suede Sneakers + Belted Jeans + Blazer

Get the look: Belted jeans + crewneck + blazer + suede oversize bag + suede sneakers

15. White Sneakers + Stacked Denim + Light-Weight Jacket

Get the look: Stacked baggy jeans + white cardigan + light-weight jacket + top handle bag + white sneakers

An unfortunate consequence of the NYC snowfall this weekend is that my sneaker game has been put on pause. I'll wait patiently for it to melt, but at the first sight of sidewalk, I'm pulling out my Adidas Tokyo Shoes. Despite the subfreezing temperatures outside, my wardrobe longs for spring. The new season is just weeks away, and I've already begun shopping for the warmer weather ahead. Whether it's the best spring 2026 basics or chic Nordstrom new markdowns, there's no denying my shoe rack needs a major upgrade. First up? A cool pair of kicks.

I've done the research, from Adidas to Zara. I've browsed editor-favorite brands like Puma, Gola, Alohas, and New Balance to find the best sneakers under $250 for spring 2026. I won't lie. I'm on a strict budget (if the Nordstrom markdowns didn't give it away). But don't worry. Price wasn't my only criterion. Chicness, wearability, and comfort were also at the forefront. Below, you'll find 15 pairs of Gen Z editor–approved sneakers that I promise will become your most-worn footwear. Style them with a classic white crewneck and jeans, or opt for something more 2026, like a belted skirt and a cinched-waist sweater.

As you scroll, you'll find celeb-approved sneakers like the Salomon XT-6, as seen on Hailey Bieber, and the hot-ticket sneaker trends of spring 2026, like ballerina sneakers, soft suede, and pops for color. Of course, if you're a white-sneaker lover, I've included my favorite affordable finds. Ahead, shop the best sneakers under $250 for spring 2026 that would impress any Gen Zer.

Shop the Best Sneakers Under $250 for Spring 2026

Shop More Affordable, Cool Sneakers for Spring 2026

If I’m honest, I own far too many pairs of shoes. Sumptuous suede loafers sit beside scuffed biker boots; delicate flats line up neatly next to sensible, seen-it-all-trainers. It sounds excessive, but when it comes down to it, choosing what to put on your feet is actually a pretty big deal, especially when you want your outfit to look as good as your feet are comfortable.

And more often than not, I’ve found that it's a pair of on-trend trainers that answers both calls without hesitation. Comfortable, functional and crucially—stylish—trainers have far transcended their purely practical roots, but not all trainer brands are created equal. With Salomon's gorpcore styles flocking the street-style scene, to retro, slimline designs from Nike x Jacquemus and Miu Miu x New Balance, some are far more in demand than others. So when we talk about investing in trainers that say "I'm in the know", you might want to know which brands to turn to first.

And with this, I offer you a helping hand. Having sifted through the ever-changing trainer landscape, I’ve uncovered the 11 brands everyone will be wearing in 2026. So, whether you’re partial to an edgy sneakerina or a chunky "dad" trainer, I’ve got you covered. Scroll down to discover the 11 trending trainer brands of 2026.

1. Adidas

Style Notes: Let's start nice and easy, shall we? When you think of top trainer brands, Adidas is one of the biggest out there. From the minimalist-favourite Samba to slightly more fashion-forward shapes like the SL 72 and the Tokyo, Adidas sits miles ahead of the competition when it comes to on-trend, crowd-pleasing trainers. And the best part? The collaborations. Teaming up with some of fashion's coolest brands (Wales Bonner, anyone?) over the years, its trainers consistently balance a streetwear vibe with wearability.

Shop Adidas Trainers:

2. Puma

Style Notes: We loved the Palermo, admired the Speedcat, and might have been slightly too afraid to try the ballet sneaker, but Puma has always been in the mix when it comes to trending trainers. With a high-performance motorsport mood running throughout, Puma styles have been the go-to choice of some of fashion's most stylish dressers for a while now. From Dua Lipa to Emily Ratajkowski and Jennifer Lawrence, they're also celeb-approved.

Shop Puma Trainers:

3. Nike

Style Notes: With many Nike styles having a major revival recently, it would be remiss not to include the brand in this roundup. Jordan 1 took the streetwear game by storm a few years back, but in 2026, it's the retro styles that are popular now. With Gwenyth Paltrow and Dakota Johnson both picking up the "dated" Cortez, it's clear Nike is where chic dressers turn when in need of a trending trainer hit.

Shop Nike Trainers:

4. On

Style Notes: Designed as the new generation of running shoes, On trainers have really taken off since the brand launched in 2010. The patented "cloud technology" (the unique holes running through the soles) creates a unique point of difference beloved by those who crave a functional shoe with a stylish twist. A staple in Jennifer Lopez’s everyday rotation, you’re in great company with these.

Shop On Trainers:

5. New Balance

Style Notes: By no means a new trainer brand (it was founded in 1906, after all), New Balance continues to dominate the trainer space, with its covetable styles consistently selling out. After reviving iconic retro silhouettes like the 530 and the 327, the brand has successfully cemented itself as comfortable and cool. And, in 2026, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fashion editor without at least one of these super-comfortable styles in their rotation.

Shop New Balance Trainers:

6. Dries Van Noten

Style Notes: Dries Van Noten trainers perfectly encapsulate everything the luxury fashion brand stands for. Playful, slightly avant-garde and undoubtedly chic, these minimal, low-profile trainers have become unexpected cult buys.

Shop Dries Van Noten Trainers:

7. Miu Miu

Style Notes: The crème de la crème of high-end sneakers, Miu Miu gets trainers right every time. Narrow, low-profile and retro in shape, every style becomes a cult favourite, and I’ve been desperately wanting to add them to my own wardrobe for some time. With an IYKYK polish, the coveted New Balance collaboration is consistently seen on the feet of the sleekest dressers around.

Shop Miu Miu Trainers:

8. Isabel Marant

Style Notes: With fashion leaning into a playfully nostalgic mood this season, this list would be incomplete without a truly special addition: Isabel Marant. Known for the Beckett (a part-trainer-part-wedge-heel hybrid), this revived icon has become Gen Z’s latest fixation. Edgy, divisive and undeniably (or deniably, depending on where you land) cool, fashion’s most creative are picking this statement sneaker to add an unexpected twist to their looks.

Shop Isabel Marant Trainers:

9. Salomon

Style Notes: A direct rejection of the slightly beige, clean-girl era of recent years, gorpcore-coded Salomon trainers are as comfy as they are cool. Finding firm fans in It girls from East London to L.A., these functional hiking trainers work with leggings and summer dressers alike.

Shop Salomon Trainers:

10. Asics

Style Notes: 2026’s answer to the chunky trainer? It has to be Asics. Blending comfort, support and statement style, Asics marathon-running styles have stepped firmly into everyday-wear territory. So whether you’re a Pilates princess or an actual runner, the brand has you covered.

Shop Asics Trainers:

11. Veja

Style Notes: Classic, consciously crafted and French, Veja quickly became one of the most popular non-sports-related trainer brands in the UK. With a royal seal of approval (Catherine, Princess of Wales and Meghan Markle are fans), the pared-back styles have become modern classics. With a commitment to sustainable manufacturing, they're a solid choice for the eco-conscious amongst us. Plus, with on-trend colourways and modern shapes in the mix, there are fresh options for 2026.

Shop Veja Trainers:

It’s been a long, bleak winter filled with constant threats of torrential downpours (courtesy of Storm Ingrid, of course), a collective fixation with a certain ice hockey romantic drama and too many layers to keep track of. However, in news that will certainly cure any lingering Blue Monday symptoms, spring is officially upon us. With it, the season is bringing a lightness, warmth and, most importantly, new trainer trends to slip into.

Unlike the saccharine heeled mules and clip-cloppy sandals that previously defined this time of year, trainers have certainly become the shoe style to covet and collect for the brighter days ahead. It’s an understandable switch, given the blue skies, freshly sprouted blooms and sprightly breezy encourages days spent out and about. (Hybernation? We hardly know her anymore.) Indeed, those glasses of rosé, new exhibition openings and park picnics won’t be drunk, visited or attended themselves, so it’s important to ensure you’re well equipped for whatever the season will bring.

This spring, however, promises new trainer trends to do it all in. After the sneaker boom that occurred following the pandemic, our choices are no longer limited to a pair of Adidas x Wales Bonner Sambas or Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66—two trainers that defined the foremost part of this decade. Now, with sportswear giants constantly expanding their ranges with exciting releases, like the sneakerina or wedge iteration of Puma’s Speedcat line, and designer brands doubling down on these sportier styles, including Roger Vivier’s technically-oriented Viv’ Zag, the next few months promise to promote functional footwear.

The spring/summer 2026 runways also indicate the novel ways in which stylish trainer outfits will manifest following the vernal equinox, a.k.a the official beginning of the season. From Miu Miu’s double-laced and low-profile designs paired with sequin-adorned apron dresses to Dries Van Noten’s glossy boxer shapes styled with grey jersey ruffles, the designer set are backing more unexpected and non-conformist ways of wearing the shoes

Ready to tread the path less travelled by? Ahead, the 7 key spring trainer trends of 2026.

7 Key Trainer Trends for Spring 2026

1. Technical Knockout

Style Notes: Remaining true to their original purpose, technical trainers have emerged as one of the biggest trainer trends in recent months. This really was inevitable from the moment the Salomon XT-6 began cropping up in small plates restaurants across East London instead of the hiking trails along the South Downs. However, for spring, these elements are becoming far more of an ornament than anything else. Like how the rope accessory trend had everyone channelling their inner Alex Honnold with climbing cordelette hanging from bag charms or fastened through their shoe laces, the technical trainer trend is all about embracing utilitarian elements like rubberised soles with intricate tread, pull toggles and velcro straps.

Shop the Trend:

2. Hybrid Composites

Style Notes: If Jacob Elordi’s recent Oscar nomination for his performance in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is any indication, it’s that hybrid creations are no longer considered to be a monstrosity. From sneakers disguised as loafers to trainers with Mary Jane accents, expect this spring to spawn a whole new legion of eccentric fusions. Because what’s cooler than wearing a trainer hidden in plain sight?

Shop the Trend:

3. New Retro

Style Notes: Vintage is one category that will never fall out of fashion. However, there’s a fine line between wearing something archival and wearing something that’s a little outdated. The retro trainer trend straddles this line perfectly by paying homage to the slightly daggy original shape, but updating it in a way that feels contemporary. From the Nike x Jacquemus Moon shoe to the Maison Margiela Sprinter, embracing these ‘70s-inspired silhouettes without irony is a surefire way to inject humour and lightness into your ensemble. Groovy, baby.

Shop the Trend:

4. Metallic Bond

Style Notes: If you’ve been binging Heated Rivalry or the Winter Olympic Games to provide a taste of the Après-ski season without having to actually head into icy climates—I’ve recently watched Ruben Östlund’s Force Majeure for the exact same reason—then this trainer trend will surely pique your interest. With a focus on all things performance, this style recontextualises the gold, silver and bronze medals seen through these athletic television phenomena into a very wearable style. Adding some contrast to the ditzy florals and muted pastels synonymous with spring, this trend will certainly rise to the top of the podium come late March.

Shop the Trend:

5. Fresh Suede

Style Notes: There’s just something about suede. Since making its comeback a few seasons ago, the textured leather fabric has been quite hard to shake. I’m personally not complaining as I love to throw on this Bob Dylan-approved texture whenever the forecast is favourable. But for those looking to switch it up, the biggest spring trainer trends are indicating a shift towards a lighter colour palette. Leave the chocolate browns and navy blues for November and embrace airier hues like cloud white, marshmallow cream and vanilla ecru.

Shop the Trend:

6. Flexible Finishes

Style Notes: What do the Chloé Kick, COS Suede-Nylon Ballet Trainers and Miu Miu Plume satin sneakers all have in common? They’re all members of the elasticated trainer trend. With a low-profile shape and ruching that keeps the upper part of the shoe taut around the ankle, this is a style that embraces both the softness of a ballet flat and the flexibility of the technical trainer trend. Why choose one when you can wear them all?

Shop the Trend:

7. Old Skool

Style Notes: If there’s one factor that underscores the most popular trainer styles from recent years, it’s the fact that they’re all reissues of older releases. Everything old is new again. Yet, rather than just borrowing the codes from previous launches, many brands are building on the success these styles had the first time around by reordering them with subtle updates. From Vans’s Old Skool lace-ups on the feet of Jennifer Lawrence to the Adidas Taekwondo doing the rounds on Dakota Johnson, you only need to look back to move forward.

Shop the Trend:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

As we all know, Gen Z has taken it upon themselves to revive many of the fashion trends that defined the 2000s and 2010s, and they show no signs of stopping. Even the most polarizing trends are seeing the light of day again, and Rachel Sennott just wore one of them while in Park City, Utah, for the Sundance Film Festival.

As the creator and star of I Love LA, one of the most Gen Z–coded shows on television, she's basically a poster child for the generation, so if she wears something, you can be sure that many Gen Zers will too. In this case, the trend is wedge sneakers. People noticed of the return of the trend that was so popular in the early-to-mid 2010s last year, and now that Puma has released a wedge version of its wildly popular Speedcat sneakers, you can consider it mainstream again.

Sennott wore a suede two-tone version of the sneakers with her leather bomber jacket and chino trousers. Sadly, they're now sold out, but Nordstrom currently has a leather pair in stock, and Puma is releasing fresh versions in suede on February 1. You can also find wedge sneakers among the current offerings from Chloé, Tory Burch, and Veronica Beard, and in case you haven't heard, Isabel Marant has revived its iconic wedge It sneakers from the 2010s.

Keep scrolling to see Sennott's chic styling of the trend and shop the Puma Speedcat Wedge Sneakers along with the best styles from other brands on the internet.

On Rachel Sennott: Puma Speedcat Wedge Sneakers in Totally Taupe-Chocolate ($120)

Shop Puma Speedcat Wedge Sneakers

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Every new year brings inevitable reflection on the year prior. After writing about my shopping favorites of 2025 and the standout emerging brands that I discovered over the past year, I started thinking beyond my individual taste. What did Who What Wear readers buy in 2025?

To answer that question, I ran the numbers. Across fashion and beauty, clear patterns emerged around the pieces readers consistently returned to.

In fashion, there was a focus on familiar household names, and Adidas, COS, Reformation, H&M, Nordstrom, and Puma topped the list. For beauty, readers shopped a mix of brands: Victoria Beckham Beauty, Chanel, Merit, Armani Beauty, Dior, RapidLash, Charlotte Tilbury, InnBeauty Project, Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty, Saie, Rare Beauty, and Summer Fridays.

Below, take a look at the 30 best-selling items of 2025.

The Fashion Results

The number one best-selling fashion item of 2025 among Who What Wear readers was the Adidas Samba OG Shoes. In fact, the top four best-selling items were all Adidas sneakers, and several more styles landed in the top 15.

At number five were the Open Edit Tori Kitten Heel Sandals, which many of our editors own and highly recommend. Nordstrom's in-house label was also popular, and its Cashmere Crewneck Sweater came in at number seven.

During spring and summer, we saw an expected rise in linen, making it no surprise that the Caslon Wide-Leg Pull-On Linen-Blend Pants were a best seller.

The rest of the list includes wardrobe staples such as the COS Clean Cut Regular T-Shirt, the Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan, and the Puma Speedcat Sneakers.

Shop Fashion Best Sellers

The Beauty Results

I was just as curious to see which beauty products were at the top. In the number one spot with 411 purchases was the Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner.

Coming in second was Chanel's Le Vernis nail polish, which makes sense given the enduring popularity of Ballerina alone. Merit's Flush Balm Cream Blush was third, followed by Armani Beauty's Luminous Silk Natural Glow Foundation and another Merit standout, the Signature Lip Sheer Lip Liner.

Dior's Addict Lip Glow Balm came next alongside the Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner. Pillow Talk Medium is a personal favorite of mine.

After appearing repeatedly on TikTok following its launch, Armani Beauty's Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow was number nine. The Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm also made the list, which is another staple in my routine, particularly in Brown Sugar.

Shop Beauty Best Sellers

I love to travel in a comfortable outfit, but sometimes, that means it's not as stylish. Post-pandemic, fashion people might have an aversion to sweatpants, but for the most part, they're still what I opt for when I travel. That said, I'm trying to move away from looking, well, frumpy on flights. My travel looks are about to get much better because Dove Cameron wore a comfortable sneaker outfit at LAX that I fully plan to copy.

Her perfectly layered look included a black wool coat, a white button-down, black track pants, and white Puma Speedcat sneakers. She threw on a baseball cap to complete her cool yet casual look. Her styling trick of layering pieces gives off the vibe that she tried harder than she actually did, and that's what I'm going for when I'm traveling. Gone are the days of frumpy sweats. I'm going to be a cool girl at LAX and every other airport.

On Dove Cameron: Puma T7 Always on Straight Track Pants ($65) and Speedcat OG Sneakers in White/Black ($100)

Get the Look

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When it comes to fashion, certain items are truly worth the investment. From sleek handbags to high-quality outerwear, there are particular instances where exceptional craftspersonship makes splurging that bit of extra cash worthwhile. Trainers, however, don't typically fall under this umbrella for me. In fact, the high street currently has so many options that higher-priced iterations rarely catch my attention.

However, when I want a pair that is just that little bit more trend-led, that will also stand the test of time in my wardrobe, there are a few slightly more expensive trainer brands that I turn to. These brands sit at a (sometimes significantly) higher price point than their high-street counterparts, but due to their cult status as well as their undeniably fashion-forward designs, I think they're well worth the cost.

From ultra-luxury cult brands to slightly more affordable favourites, with even a few buzzy collabs in the mix, I’ve rounded up the seven fashionable trainer brands to invest in this season and beyond.

The 7 Best Fashionable Trainer Brands, According to an Editor:

1. Puma

Style Notes: I had to start this round-up with the brand that brought us arguably the most popular trainer style of 2025 so far: Puma. The Speedcat took centre stage this year, with both celebrities and fashion people alike falling in love with this retro silhouette; however, there are plenty of other styles to choose from that will earn you just as many cool-girl points from fellow stylish dressers.

Shop Puma Trainers:

2. Adidas

Style Notes: We all know that when it comes to It trainers, few can be called as iconic as Adidas's pairs. From the viral Samba to the hype over the SL 72 that followed, these more minimalist trainers always seem to be a hit amongst fashion people. And the best part? The pared-back silhouettes ensure that they’ll never date.

Shop Adidas Trainers:

3. Loewe

Style Notes: Loewe may be best known for its excellent handbag selection, but the trainers are not to be slept on. True to the brand’s identity, they perfectly blend a fun, slightly avant-garde approach with functional elegance, resulting in two retro-inspired styles that I’ve been desperate to add to my wardrobe. Not to mention, the label has also collaborated with trending sportswear brand On, creating a sell-out trainer that everyone wants to get their hands on (more on that later).

Shop Loewe Trainers:

4. New Balance

Style Notes: New Balance is by no means a new trainer brand (it was created in 1906), but its revival of some iconic retro styles like the 530 and the 327 (shown on Francesca Saffari above) was a great move, as they're constantly selling out. In 2025, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fashion editor without the super-comfortable but no less fashionable trainers in their wardrobe.

Shop New Balance Trainers:

5. Miu Miu

Style Notes: If you keep up with current trends, then you most likely already know about Miu Miu’s sell-out collab with New Balance. Notoriously hard to get your hands on, you now have to be a Miu Miu member to invest in these cult trainers. But don’t fear, as the designer brand also has a number of trainer styles that you can buy without the fuss. However, I must admit that the hybrid pair remains my absolute favourite from the brand.

Shop Miu Miu Trainers:

6. Nike

Style Notes: With Nike's Cortez trainers experiencing a major revival right now, it should come as no surprise that more and more fashion people are turning to the brand for other throwback styles as well. My personal favourite? The chunky Air Max I’ve owned and loved since I was in secondary school. They’re cushion-y, durable and are the perfect style to wear with jeans, skirts and dresses alike.

Shop Nike Trainers:

7. On

Style Notes: Originally designed as running shoes, On's trainers have an interesting-looking sole that’s made of ventilation holes to add cushion and support. However, these practical pairs also have a stylish element, with the coolest dressers pairing the sporty trainers with their everyday looks to add a point of difference. In fact, the brand has become so popular that in 2022, it collaborated with luxury House Loewe (as mentioned above). The collection did so well that it has become an ongoing partnership between the brands.

Shop On Trainers:

Low-profile, slim sneakers from brands like Puma and Adidas have been gradually replacing chunkier styles for a few seasons now, with 2025 undoubtedly being their biggest year yet. But how do you style them right now so that they feel fresh and not overdone? Gracie Abrams just answered that question, doing so in elite style. The "I Love You, I'm Sorry" singer was spotted out and about in New York City with friends wearing the popular sneaker style—particularly brown, suede Puma Speedcasts—in this year's most relevant way: worn with low and loose jeans. The denim shape perfectly settles over the slim shoe shape, just letting the almond toe peek through in a cool, effortless way. She added a three-quarter sleeve, boat-neck tee in black and Chanel's chocolate-brown suede 25 bag, which the brand ambassador has been carrying for a while now.

On Gracie Abrams: Chanel 25 Small Handbag ($6000); Puma Speedcat OG ($100)

Sure, you can wear skinny, slim-straight, or high-waisted jeans with low-profile sneakers, but styling them with low and loose jeans just clicks best with today's trends. The combination gives a true lived-in quality that off-duty girls prefer to super clean-cut denim outfits. Abrams' decision to pair the jeans-and-sneaker duo with a luxury bag like Chanel's 25 silhouette added the perfect contrast of high and low, while simultaneously making suede a throughline in the look. Like her music, her outfits never miss, on and off the stage.

Keep scrolling to shop the jeans-and-sneaker combination that feels the most 2025.

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Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn well and truly in the air, we took the opportunity to try on some of the best new-in pieces from your favourite brands, documenting the process along the way. We believe that the best way to shop online is to see an item IRL and read candid reviews, so we hope this leads you to your most successful purchases of the year.

I practically jumped at the opportunity to road-test autumn's trending trainers, i.e. the trainers I love but don't need (or have the wardrobe space for). My go-to shoe for a fair few years, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a trainer aficionado who can keenly spot a trending style on the horizon, which I'd always choose over the equivalent loafers or ballet flats.

Of course, not all trainers are built the same and can claim the coveted title of one of the pairs of the season. From timeless white trainers to buzzy drops like the New Balance X Miu Miu collab, which is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after designer trainer collections to date, there are a few telltale signs which signal when a style is destined to be a sellout. Firstly, they seamlessly slot into a capsule wardrobe, providing outfit versatility and styling ease (essentially, you can wear them again and again and they'll still feel elevated).

Secondly, you'll spot them on those in the know. With so many trending options around, there are actually few which seem to unify fashion people and celebrities alike, so when they do, you know you're on the right track. And lastly, they're genuinely comfortable. In 2025, the best trainers feel like walking on clouds—no breaking-in required.

Having tried on multiple pairs of trainers that are trending for autumn 2025, I've narrowed down the five that made the cut, so if you're in the market, scroll to see the only pairs worth investing in for the season ahead.

The Best Trainers for Autumn 2025, As Tried and Reviewed By an Editor:

1. Dries Van Noten Leather-Trimmed Sneakers

My Review: With a retro '70s mood sweeping the trending trainer scene, slimeline styles featuring skinny soles and rounded toes can feel like a dime a dozen, but Dries Van Noten's Leather-Trimmed Sneakers stand miles above the rest. Quietly drawing Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber as fans, these trainers feature clean lines, a supple suede finish (unless you go for the leather and fabric iteration) and a complementary two-tone colour palette, offering all the ease of a classic trainer with a fresh 2025 twist. I've noticed them taking the place of Adidas Sambas in the outfits of chic Instagram users, so trying them was a must.

Fitting like a glove, their no-fuss design instantly elevates anything they're worn with. Much to my dismay (as I was desperately hoping these wouldn't be as good IRL as they looked online, owing to the more premium price tag), they lived up to their hype. The flat sole offers little cushioning, but that's part of their beauty—they almost mould to your feet. This gives them another draw I constantly look for when on the hunt for trainers: they make your feet look dainty. Now, anyone with large feet will understand this struggle. Most trainers, from chunky to flat-soled pairs, tend to exaggerate my shoe size, but these? They do the opposite; their slimline, sculptural build gives the illusion of petite feet without sacrificing their trending edge.

Whether you go for the classic tan suede colourway to the best-selling Bordeaux leather-and-fabric style—both key autumn 2025 colour trends—you'll have the perfect subtle pop of colour to balance your casual autumn outfits with a laid-back edge, rather than have your trainers make the whole look feel dishevelled and unpolished.

To put them to the test, I tried the suede pair with a fail-safe autumn capsule-wardrobe combination: light denim jeans, a thick, chunky knit and a khaki trench coat, and they looked every bit as polished as I was hoping they would. I styled the Bordeaux variation with the best-selling Dries funnel-neck jacket over the same jeans and knit. With its balloon sleeves, high collar and cotton-wool blend, it's both relaxed and structured, with a great weight that makes it perfect for layering. Chic, wearable and fashion-forward, these are definitely a pair I’d say are worth your time and money.

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2. COS Minimal Leather Trainers

My Review: Now that we’re on the same page that slimline trainers are back, it would be remiss of me not to mention COS's minimal leather trainers. Spotted on influencer Lucy Williams at the brand's spring/summer 2025 show in Athens, there was a distinct buzz in the Who What Wear UK office when these designer-looking trainers hit shelves. Now, I know what you’re thinking: high-street trainers? But hear me out. Known for their high-quality craftspersonship and ahead-of-the-trend designs, COS does trainers better than its competitors, in my humble opinion. Made from a 100% suede shell and soft leather lining, these honestly aren't too dissimilar in style from the aforementioned Dries Van Noten style. Instead of a round toe, though, they have a slightly square shape, along with a thicker, ridged rubber sole and leather-accent trims. To me, they're like a hybrid between the Nike Cortez vintage running design and the motorsport silhouette of the new Adidas Taekwondo, resulting in a minimalistic trainer that's truly wearable.

Again, I tried true to size and was pleasantly surprised. They felt snug with thick socks but not too tight (and remember, leather trainers naturally soften and give). Each colourway is contemporary without being overtly trendy or trying too hard. The pony-hair pair in particular looks so luxe IRL, and is an easy way to dip into one of autumn's biggest shoe trends. However, the suede style left me slightly disappointed. A pair taken from the shop floor, I couldn't help but notice the discolouration in the black suede. Likely a result of repeated try-ons, there were paler spots where the shoes had seemingly rubbed against each other or another item of clothing, causing the dye to fade somewhat. This is the beauty of try-ons, though; I can truly test out an item for you before you buy, and had I purchased sight unseen, I wouldn't have been best pleased about this.

To give the trainers a proper road-test, I styled them with some of COS's key pieces for autumn: the Sculpted Merino Wool Jacket and the gloriously soft Brushed Cashmere Cardigan, both of which surpassed my expectations. The jacket is lightweight and fluid, a perfect transitional piece crafted from 100% wool, whilst the cardigan, which I've tried on before, was every bit as soft as I remembered. All in all, these trainers are perfect for those looking for a pared-back, easy-to-style shoe with a high-end feel that won't break the bank.

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3. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66

My Review: When I saw our senior shopping editor, Marina Avraam, rocking a pair of Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 trainers a few weeks ago, I was reminded just how great they are. Thin-soled and available in bright colours, the Mexico 66 features crossover stripes with an aesthetic reminiscent of Adidas Samba and Gazelle, just not as mainstream. Finding fans from fashion people to supermodels (Bella Hadid, here's looking at you), the popular neon yellow colourway was originally worn by Uma Thurman with her iconic yellow-and-black two-piece from Kill Bill Volume 1, which was released in 2003.

Since then, these trainers have filtered into mainstream, in an ever-expanding array of colourways that now includes a particularly bold silver style. This everywhere-but-somehow-also-under-the-radar trainer is constantly being worn by the coolest of fashion people, but I had yet to try it myself, so this was the perfect opportunity to put it to the test. I took my normal size in both pairs I tried (yellow and silver), and was genuinely surprised when they were a good fit. The silhouette looks deceptively narrow, so I tried them with my thickest socks, yet they were comfortable through and through.

Made from 100% cow leather, they’re smooth to the touch and glide onto the feet with ease. There's a definite throw-on-and-go energy to them, and each colour variant brings something a little different. Whether you're looking for a bold, contrasting shade or subtle minimalism, you’ll find a pair to match your vibe. Personally, for their wearability, wide range of colourways and cool-girl edge, I think these are some of the trendiest trainers to own, which is exactly why they made my list.

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