Words by Danielle Whiteman
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With so many to choose from, we asked Holly’s stylist, Danielle Whiteman to shortlist her favourite trainers for both comfort and style.
If you’re anything like me, you know how important it is to find the perfect pair of trainers, because get it right, and they quickly become the most hard-working piece in your wardrobe. For me, trainer perfection is finding that sweet spot between comfort and cool. How many times do you find yourself buying shoes that only tick one of those boxes? I know, more often than you’d care to admit, but I’m here to tell you that beauty doesn’t always have to mean pain!
Trainers really have had a resurgence in recent years. They’re not just for wearing to the gym or on the dreaded work commute, but they can be the ideal footwear choice when paired with pretty dresses and tailoring etc. I would say that this year we’ve seen a huge rise in classic designs like Adidas Originals. The market has become saturated with endless options, so I thought I’d bring a few of my favourites to the table, to help you narrow down your search for the perfect pair to see you through 2024.
Having just mentioned them, let’s start with some Adidas classics…or you could call them the ‘IT’ trainers. In recent months it has been almost impossible to get your hands on a pair of Adidas, Samba OG Shoes, £90 – particularly in the white colourway. These trainers have become so popular, not only due to their neutral colourway ensuring that they go with absolutely everything, but also due to the fact that they are soooo comfortable.
Adidas is really having its time in the sun at the moment, having given some of their classics a glow up with bright colourways – red is fast becoming THE colour of the season!
I love the iconic Adidas, Originals Gazelle Indoor Sneakers in Scarlet & White, £90 for adding a pop of colour to any outfit. And if you’re feeling really brave, the Adidas, Originals Gazelle Indoor Sneakers in Green & Pink, £90 are perfection.
My tip: A little inside scoop on the Gazelle design…if you’re looking for a some arch support, their soles have a built-in cushion.
Moving on to another brand classic – the Nike ‘dad trainer’ has been around for a while and by the looks of things, it’s here to stay.
Now, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea but the main reason the trend isn’t budging is the fact that they may be the most comfortable trainers around. I dare you to try and not give into the comfort levels…and with a thick, solid sole, they’re perfect for getting your steps in.
I love a classic white trainer and adore the chunky flash of white on the Nike, V2K, £109.99.
Sticking with Nike, I always find myself coming back to the retro Nike runners. They’re a great, timeless way to introduce some colour to your looks. Sticking to retro, muted colourways, price-per-wear, I would say they are really sensible investment piece for your wardrobe as I often find myself digging mine out.
I love the Nike, Daybreak Vintage Trainers in Fir Green, £99.95. The Daybreak is a brilliant, lightweight trainer but if you’re looking for that bit of extra foot support, the Nike, Phoenix Waffle in Neutral/Red, £89.99 may be a better option for you. It’s a similar design to the Daybreak but with the added support of a thicker, more cushioned sole.
The New Balance, 327 Trainer in Off-White & Navy, £109, has become one of the most popular trainers of late and it’s purely due to the fact they are as comfy as they are cute. For me, they are the perfect, neutral, versatile trainer. The comfort comes from the thick sole, but the foam cushioning means that this chunky looking trainer both soft and lightweight. What’s not to love?!
And for those looking for designer looks at high street prices, the High Street has some great options – some might even call them ‘dupes’.
These Zara, Contrast Leather Trainers, £49.99 are brilliant, and these thick-soled, retro style trainers from H&M, in White, £24.99 are another a great value option. As I said before, the market is saturated with classics and ‘takes on classics’ so trainer shopping doesn’t always have to be an expensive thing – particularly if you’re wanting to experiment with different styles etc.
Good luck finding your perfect match!
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Danielle Whiteman
Stylist
@danniiwhiteman
