While there aren’t many fashion items that stand the test of time, when it comes to footwear, there’s no denying the longevity of humble white trainers.
Originally introduced to the world as a sports shoe, these days you’re just as likely to find one on the feet of a fashion week f’row-goer or even in the office as you are on a tennis court.
Trainers are just about the only shoe we can muster up the strength to put on these days – other than our cosy slippers. Gone are the days of pretending we’re Carrie Bradshaw by wearing heels during the day. In fact, we hardly even wear them on nights out anymore. Comfort is key.
Whether it’s a chunky-soled number from New Balance, a sleek slip-on-and-go pair like Gucci’s Aces, a dad-style design à la Axel Arigato or a statement fashion favourite by Balenciaga, it’s never not the right time to embrace a pair of box-fresh white trainers. But the impending arrival of autumn is probably a better time than any to take the plunge. Picture all the fresh outfits you’ll be able to create (think: white t-shirts layered with blazers and new winter coats).
White trainers are a mainstay in the wardrobes of all our fave celebrities and influencers, one swipe through Instagram will show you that, but if you’ve got your eye on sustainability and celebrity style, you’ve likely spotted that Meghan Markle is a mega fan of one trainer brand in particular: Veja.
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A French brand whose materials are sourced locally and organically with the protection of the environment as a priority – Veja is one of Net-A-Porter‘s best sellers across the site. In fact the brand’s Global Buying Director, Elizabeth Von Der Goltz, recently revealed that there have been ‘huge sale lifts since [Meghan] first wore them’.
After more footwear content? Here are the best fashion trainers, the best new trainers, designer trainers and the best running shoes for women.