My Top 10 Sneakers Right Now
Sneakers have never played such a vital part in my wardrobe since having kids. I’ve actually always bought and loved seasonal trainers — I’ve been through the recent Adidas Gazelle/Samba craze at least twice in my lifetime so far — but I’ve never relied on them as much as I do now. To state the glaringly obvious, heels and fancy flats don’t seem to fit into my day-to-day work and mum life, so having a selection of trainers just makes sense for this stage of my life. I’m guessing they do for you, too.
The fact is, there are lots on offer at radically different price points, so I thought I’d do a cull and share some of my favourites to buy and wear right now. Embarrassingly, I own about half of the ones below, so I can certainly vouch for their relevance and style-factor. Here’s what I’m loving right now (click on the image to shop)…
The On-Trend Trainer
It’s no secret that New Balance is having a moment, but there are a lot of different styles around which make choosing somewhat confusing. I’m loving these RC30 styles because they’re slightly retro in design, come in a great range of muted colours, and aren’t as chunky as other options. I’m wearing these with denim and breezy summer skirts once the weather warms up.
The White Classics
These look kinda French but they’re actually American tennis shoes, and I love that this brand isn’t hugely noticeable or on many people’s radar. A great all-rounder that blend function and form, I can see these working with tailored pants as well as jeans this season.
The Hard-To-Nab
Yep, this Influencer-favourite is pretty hard to find at the moment, save for some pretty random sports websites. I can promise that in a month or so these will be readily available everywhere, so if you don’t want to commit just yet, they’ll be easier to buy soon. You would have seen these all over social media, and I think they’ll still be big for us next winter, so if you’re a three-stripes-aficionado (that’s me), then I don’t need to sell these to you. Wear with everything and anything.
The Sporty-Sneaker
If you’re after the comfort of an actual sneaker with the street-cred of other more trend-based styles, the Nike Waffle is a great compromise. Pick and choose from a range of colour-ways that will mix and match nicely with this season’s obsession with boxer-style shorts.
Veja, With a Twist
Real talk? The leather Vejas were just never really that comfortable, were they? This air-mesh style is much more user-friendly, and I love seeing this style in a monochrome colour palette that feels more modern than a basic white trainer. I love these with tailored pants and midi skirts.
The New Neutral
It’s slightly odd to see a trainer in a neutral colour way, but it also makes a lot of sense. Gazelles are a streetwear staple and this beige hue gives a serious nod to a usually playful silhouette. These would look great with a crisp white cotton dress this season, or worn with ribbed socks and jeans for next winter.
Yep, More Adidas
I’ve always had a soft spot for Adidas sneakers so I’m not mad about the resurgence of all things three-stripes. The black and white Gazelles are classic and fail-safe, but this fun colour combo is definitely more appealing for the warmer months. I’m all about having a non-serious pair of sneakers for when you’re wearing an outfit that needs a little oomph.
The Cult Faves
Would you believe my husband got his hands on these before me? Rude. The 550s notoriously sell out so you have to get in quick… I love this colour combo worn with classic denim, but I can also see these mixed with a khaki full skirt and tank top. A good not-too-chunky option if you’re kind of over the Dad-style sneaker look.
They’re Back
I know some people will swear these have never gone out of style, but I’m going to disagree on that one. They have, but they’re definitely back. The colour “parchment” seen here is a much more user-friendly hue than stark white, and take note of this season’s slightly higher sole. It’s a subtly updated variation of a classic, and I’m loving these high tops worn with cropped denim or a maxi dress.
Viva La Velcro
If I can save 10 seconds on any given morning, I’ll take it. These Isabel Marant sneakers aren’t new, but they continually look chic season after season. I love the scalloped edging and the gum sole — an investment that will stand the test of time.