6 Ways to Make These Nostalgic Trainers Look Very 2024

I have a confession to make: I don't really do sneakers. And before you roll your eyes and dismiss me as someone who only wears high heels, let me assure you that I am all about the flats, whether it's ballet pumps, Chelsea boots, chunky loafers or brogues. Practicality has always been a priority. I admire people who manage to pull off the whole "laid-back with a sportswear twist" look, but I've always felt my best when my outfits have more polish, and that generally means a smarter shoe style.

Yet something has shifted this year. I've noticed quite a few influencers stepping out in Converse. We're not talking the skinny-jeans-and-band-tee pairings that pervaded our teenage years—rather elegant, grown-up get-ups. The effect is startlingly chic. Sporty trainers? Slightly unwieldy and aggressive-looking. Supergas? A tad too simple. Converse? They offer the perfect middle ground, as they look cool in a retro-inspired way, yet they're classic enough to go with almost everything in your wardrobe. Plus, they're just what I want to throw on when I'm popping to the shop when working from home.

Just check out the fashion people below, who wear theirs with everything from midi skirts to white jeans. Who knows? Maybe I am a trainer person after all. Scroll down to see and shop my favourite Converse outfits.

1. Straight-Leg Jeans + Breton Stripes + Polished Handbag

Hannah wears a pair of blue jeans with a striped jumper underneath a black blazer.

(Image credit: @hannahcrosskey)

Style Notes: Breton stripes are still big news and manage to loan themselves perfectly to monochromatic Converse. Just add straight-leg jeans and your glossiest bag. 

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2. Cashmere Knit + White Jeans

Jessica wears her Converse with some white slim-leg jeans and a cashmere knit.

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: If you follow Jessica Skye (if not, you should) then you'll know she's the queen of minimalism. Illustrating how black high-tops work well with white jeans, this is an outfit anyone can copy. 

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3. Blazer + Wide-Leg Trousers

Marisa styles her Converse with tailored trousers, a relaxed-fit T-shirt and blazer.

(Image credit: @_marisamartins_)

Style Notes: If you're avoiding jeans, wide-leg trousers are equal parts stylish and comfy. Pair yours with a blazer, basic tee and, yes, Converse for sleek day-to-day attire. 

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4. Straight-Leg Jeans + Shearling Coat

Diane wears her Converse with straight-leg jeans and a shearling coat.

(Image credit: @dianekari)

Style Notes: You can always count on Diane to come up with great outfit inspiration, and this is such a vibe. I'm so into her layered look with classic sneakers.

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5. Puffball Dress + Playful Bag

Donna pairs her puffball dress with Converse and a mini bag.

(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Style Notes: Okay, this is officially my fave outfit. Who says Converse are just for denim? Donna Wallace makes a good case for wearing them with a statement frock in this dramatic get-up.

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6. SLIP DRESS + CARDIGAN

Mira wears her converse with a roll-neck layered underneath a floral-print maxi dress.

(Image credit: @modestmira_)

Style Notes: High-tops can feel tricky to style if it's your first time trying them, but one foolproof way of wearing them is with a maxi dress. Make like Mira and go for a layered slip style with lashings of accessories. 

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Up Next: 6 New Shoe Styles That Are Low-Key, Anti-Trend and Extremely Elegant.

Promo Image: @hannahcrosskey

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