FINDING the best trainers to wear with dresses can be difficult, but when you know how to nail the look you will not only look the part, but feel super comfortable for whatever the occasion may be.
There are numerous trainer styles to shop, and dresses for that matter, and though some may feel overwhelmed trying to find the best trainers to wear with a dress, it is simpler than you may think, and you will never look back when you nail the look.
Admittedly, rocking a dress with trainers was a major faux-pas way back when, and may remind a few of us of Lily Allen’s early looks. But, over the last 20 years, this unlikely duo has become a modern combo.
For those who need a little inspiration to nail the trainers and dress ensemble, look to Kate Middleton the Princess of Wales, as well a celebrities like Zendaya, Rihanna, and the Kardashians — pretty much everyone’s wearing trainers with dresses these days. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to jump on the bandwagon.
What’s so good about wearing trainers with a dress, you ask? Well, trainers are a comfy alternative to heels or boots and wearing them with a dress results in an outfit that is the definition of smart casual.
This combo can work for almost any occasion, including work, parties, holidays, errand running, and more.
You can even channel the look all year round, whether it is summer or winter, simply layer a chunky knit over your dress, and you’ll still be a trendsetter.
Some may think not all trainers coordinate with every dress, but you may be pleasantly surprised. Of course when pairing trainers with a dress you’ve got to take into consideration the length, style, fabric and colour of the dress, the style of the trainer, and your own style too – that is key.
Do not fret as there are a plenty of trainers to go with just about anything. So, without further ado, here are the best trainers to wear with dresses.
If the Princess of Wales is your style icon, then take a leaf out of her royal style book with a pair of Superga tennis shoes because they are super versatile, comfortable and timeless.
Kate wears her low top trainers with almost everything from jeans and trousers to shorts, and of course, dresses. So, if you had to buy one pair of trainers to wear with a dress, we strongly recommend these plimsoles.
Superga’s Classic Low-Top Trainers are a simple canvas shoe, which go well with smart maxi shirt dresses for work, and floral wrap dresses for day-to-day life, as well as jeans, shorts, leggings, and plenty more looks.
Some trainers can look cumbersome, but, in our opinion, Superga’s Cotu Classic trainers are streamline, and give the illusion of narrow and delicate feet, which consequently works to elongate your legs and make your whole body look snatched.
These trainers are particularly flattering when styling dramatic dresses complete with ruffles, slits, puff sleeves, patterns, and any other busy features, as it ensures all eyes are focused on the dress.
However, they are a great footwear staple to pair with ditsy mini dresses, styled with socks for a preppy look. Plus, with their history and heritage in tennis, Superga trainers look great with mini tennis dresses and polo dresses.
But, we also recommend wearing with strap dresses, such as satin bias maxi, midaxi, and mini designs, because the simple cut of those dresses and slinky fabric does not necessarily rely on a chunky shoe to overbear the look, so for those wanting an all round delicate and soft look, without wearing a pair of stilettos, these Superga trainers are a favourite.
The Cotu style are unisex, so if you wish for your whole family to coordinate, it’s super easy to do so.
This shoe has garnered thousands of glowing reviews, so let’s take a look at what some happy shoppers have to say.
One customer recommended shopping Superga’s Cotu Classic trainers instead of more the typical go-to Converse All Stars, as these are a much more affordable alternative.
They shared: “These are the best plimsoll style shoes I’ve had in a long time.
“These are a worthy alternative to All Stars and are of equally good quality.”
It seems the common theme is the Superga design is long-lasting and timeless, with some shoppers buying the style time and time again, even in other colours, or keeping the same pair for decades.
A separate shopper said: “Been wearing Super Cotu Classics for the last 25 years – No doubt a summer staple for me. Always buy the white ones as they go with any clothing that you wear with them – a simple, comfortable sneaker – More than happy with these.”
Another added: “Lovely colour. Have several pairs in different colours. Comfortable. Good value for money.”
From the reviews, some shoppers recommend going up a half size or one full size to get the perfect fit.
Plus, you can shop this style in various other colourways.
For under £40 we recommend these super flattering, easy to style and comfortable trainers to see you through any occasion, time of year, and style preferences. You’ll just wish you bought them sooner.
Levi doesn’t just produce the best jeans — the brand makes great trainers too, as well as many other fashion garments.
This white canvas pair will be a valuable part of any capsule wardrobe and work alongside even the boldest of dresses.
White trainers are always a classic to have in every wardrobe, no matter your style preference, outfit, or occasion, which is why you can never have too many white trainers in your shoe-drobe, in our opinion.
Levi’s Tijuana Sneaker are similar to Superga’s Cotu Classic, but feature a platform heel, which is a detail we love.
Platform trainers add on an extra inch to your height and elongate your legs, so they look best with every dress, whether it is maxi, midi, or a shorter mini, as your legs will look longer and leaner.
Platform trainers are a great style tip for those who want a little extra height without the discomfort of stiletto heels, or the clumpy look of other style trainers, such as the Balenciaga-inspired alternatives.
The round toe, streamlined body of the plimsole, combined with the lace up fastening all work to make your feet look nimble and petite, but also comfortable and secure for hours of wear.
Trainers similar to Levi’s Tijuana Sneaker are the perfect staple to complete any look day or night, from a weekend brunching with friends to the office.
Style these sneakers with a skater dress, pinafore, even a t-shirt dress for a casual yet elevated look. You can even style these trainers with shirt dresses, and pretty much every variety of mini dress, as the higher heel will leave your legs looking long and slender, so well worth showing off.
If you choose to wear a longer dress, go for something with a slit such as a satin bias dress, so you can show off those toned limbs, or even a milk maid inspired dress similar to the Daily Sleeper designs, as you can balance the volume on the sleeves with your platform heels.
We would gladly style these trainers with and without socks, the options are endless, though we would favour ankle socks for a back-to-school look – and extra warmth too.
These plimsoles are available with a canvas outer shell, which are ideal for those wanting a softer look and fit as canvas material is more malleable than other textiles.
However, we also love the all leather trainers as they tend to keep their shape a little longer, can protect your feet from the elements as leather is more resistant to rain than canvas, plus they are easier to clean and maintain, which means you can wear for longer without fear of them being ruined on a rainy day.
Customers are head over heels for these trainers, but similar to Superga’s Cotu Classics, recommend you sizing up if you are in between sizes.
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The trendy trainer comes in a variety of colourways, and while some may opt for the classic all white version, others may wish to inject a pop of colour, and texture into their look, which is why we love this earthy colourway.
These Nike Air Force Ones feature a muted suede detailing, and deeper earth toned Nike tick in soft leather.
The subtle injection of colour is a great way to jazz up any look, which is why it’s a great footwear staple to pair with a simple white dress.
Styling these trainers with midi dresses make for a dream pairing — especially in spring with an oversized denim or leather jacket.
But you can also opt for a bohemian look in the winter with a maxi dress, chunky trainers, and a chunky knit jumper layered over.
Converse are the ultimate wardrobe staple, as you can wear them with just about any dress, mini, midi and maxi dresses.
Most people own a pair, but if you don’t, now is the time to jump on the bandwagon.
The high-top platforms are the most popular style, as they give a relaxed look without looking too chunky.
Plus, high tops with a platform are great for adding extra height without wearing heels or boots, perfect for those who are planning to be on their feet all day.
You’ll undoubtedly get the most wear out of a black or white pair, but these shoes come in a wide variety of colours, so take your pick.
If you are on the hunt for a pair of trainers that will spruce up any look, whether it is a summer dress, knitted maxi in the winter, or a classic jeans and t-shirt combo, the Victoria Purple Fuchsia Berlin Trainers are worth adding to your wishlist.
These vibrant trainers will see you through spring summer, autumn, and winter, year in and year out.
The warm mauve laces, combined with the tonal suede accents, purple V logo, and fuchsia pink pop of colour at the back of the trainer, will brighten up even the most neutral of dresses and would look even better when coupled with a printed one piece for a colour clash ensemble – not for the faint hearted.
Did someone say Alexander McQueen dupe? These Aldo trainers are almost identical to the popular designer trainers, but cost almost £400 less.
The Reia Trainers come in a subtle white colourway with a metallic detailing on the heel, as well as the pink tweed colourway, which is a subtle to nod to Chanel.
We love the elevated platform heel, which not only adds extra height to the wearer, but also colour and fun to any look.
These trainers will look great with a body-con midi dress, as well as a denim mini dress or t-shirt dress.
If you are wearing block colours, such as black, white or maybe even a pink hue, these trainers can inject colour into the simplest of ensembles.
Another stylish pair from Veja, the Venturi Trainers have more of a sporty feel than the Campo, but still a firm favourite of ours and other shoppers
This style has a little more flexibility and is probably the safer choice for any occasion that involves walking or being on your feet all day.
The chunky ‘90s silhouette is very in right now, and this style is exactly what you will want to invest in this season and for years to come.
Style your Veja Venturi Leather Sneakers with a fitted midi dress (like the viral Skims dress) for work or play, a casual t-shirt dress, but also a stylish puff sleeve midaxi dress for the optimum comfortable ensemble.
If you’re after something a little bit different, go for a pair of Wushu Ruyi’s trainers, known for delivering comfort and colour in one.
The cult Italian brand, founded by brothers Walter and Paolo Lorini, recently landed in the UK and is now stocked at Anthropologie, among other retailers.
The brand is known for its sporty trainers that come in a rainbow of colours. So, it’s safe to say you’ll definitely stand out if you rock a pair of these with either a neutral coloured or denim dress.
For your weekend look wear these trainers with a white maxi dress, ankle socks, and if the weather is a little on the colder side layer over a comfy knit jumper and leather jacket or trench coat. It may sound like an eclectic mix of garments, but it’s trendy, comfortable and colourful.
It wouldn’t be a trainer roundup without including Veja’s Campo trainers, which are another popular style with the royals, including Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle.
The eco-conscious french footwear brand is the king of smart trainers, and this style is the easiest to style with a pretty dress — no matter the length.
You’ll be able to adapt them to suit pretty much any outfit and occasion, whether you rock them with a chic maxi dress to work or a floral mini dress to a summer BBQ.
The Campo trainers are available in a handful of colours, so it will be easy to find a pair that matches your wardrobe, though we always recommend a neutral shade if you are on a budget, stumped for space, and want a staple to coordinate with all outfits.
You might recognise Adidas Originals Gazelles as football trainers from the late ‘60s, but they’ve had a makeover and are now the trendiest trainer of 2023.
Adidas Originals are a low top trainer, and very similar to a classic plimsoll, and also Adidas’ iconic Superstars.
They feature a round tow, lacy up front, and slight platform for cushioning on the sole of your feet, plus it features the signature three stripes on the side of the shoe.
The Adidas Originals come in various colours, but we love the all white variation as they will simply go with any outfit, and any dress for that matter.
The sleek low-top silhouette will really sing when paired with rolled-down tube socks and a clashing mini, midi or maxi dress.
White tennis trainers look great with any casual dress, but this pair from Superga has a little twist, which we love and will elevate the traditional footwear staple.
The animal print heel tab makes this classic sporty shoe feel a little more chic, and a great way to subtly shake up the most simplest look, whether it is a maxi dress, denim pinafore dress, or jeans and a t-shirt combo.
These Superga trainers are available to shop from M&S, and come in a range of sizes from UK 4 to 8, including half sizes.
Already shoppers are loving the trainers as they have been described as “stylish and super comfortable trainer” by some M&S customers.
If you typically like to keep your outfits fairly neutral and want to spice things up in the footwear department, you’ll be a huge fan of these dotty trainers from Gola and Oliver Bonas.
Featuring pink, metallic gold, khaki, beige, white, and black dots, they’re certainly busy. But, because every shade is muted and the shoe’s silhouette is pretty streamlined, they manage to still be quite low-key.
These trainers, which are exclusive to shop at Oliver Bonas, will be in their element paired with a denim mini dress or a midi or maxi dress in a colour from the shoe’s varying palette.
Superdry’s Vegan Faux Vulc Low Top Trainers are a great investment for the eco-conscious shopper.
The skinny laces and sleek round toe shape gives these trainers a clean and classic look that is a breeze to dress up or down.
These would go particularly well with any summer dress, whether you are dressing down a knitted maxi dress, or summer tea dress.
The best part is they are currently on sale for half the price and it is a mega deal you will not want to miss out on.
Shoppers have praised these trainers for providing the “perfect fit”, and for being the go-to shoe to wear with every outfit, dresses or jeans.
Reformation’s Harlow Sneakers are on the more expensive end of the scale, but they’re worth the hype.
These trainers can elevate the classic white trainer option, as they have the subtle detail of coloured piping on the seams, which is a great option for those wanting to wear white trainers with a twist.
Wear with figure hugging or loose bohemian-style dresses, long, midi, and mini designs, printed, block colour, or a simple white number, even draw out the colour in the trainers with your dress to show off your keen eye for fashion.
Made from 100% recyclable — but still supple — leather, these trainers are durable but don’t need to be broken in (bye-bye blisters).
New Balance has a whole host of trainers, all of which we love, and can easily style with dresses whatever the season.
The 373v2 style are super versatile and, arguably, the most comfortable pair of trainers out there, so a style well worth stocking up on.
Where some flat trainers lack flexibility, these ones boast lightweight foam cushioning in the midsole and heel, as well as a mesh section around the toe.
Pair them with a contrasting black dress (you choose the length), an oversized bomber jacket, and sunglasses for a ‘model off-duty’ look.
We would even wear with a t-shirt dress for a super casual ensemble for running errands, or a long length loose fitted maxi dress.
Looking for your standard, clean-looking pair of white trainers with a pruse friendly price tage? Look no further.
River Island’s offering will go with literally any dress in your wardrobe, from mini to maxi, summer and winter.
The platform heel provides added height, while the sole features jagged grip to ensure you are steady on your feet.
These trainers scream comfort thanks to the padded ankle detail, while the zip up front fastening makes for super quick and easy styling.
We think these trainers deserve to be on full display, so why not wear with a mini dress? Fitted, t-shirt or a cute ditsy smock number, you name it, these trainers will suit perfectly.
AllSaints knows hot to deliver leather creations, and well, whether it is their iconic biker jackets or leather trainers.
The Shana Leather trainers come in a muted white and neutral colourway, as well as a classic black, so you can shop them both to ensure you have a pair of trainers to coordinate with every outfit in your wardrobe.
These trainers are a practical alternative to a pair of really edgy biker boots. Wear them with a simple slip dress layered over a t-shirt and finish off the look with an oversized leather jacket.
From the round toe, the the leather upper to the suede accent on the heel, All Saints has made a simple shoe look effortlessly modern and chic.
If you’re looking for new ways to add colour to your wardrobe, these trainers from Scotch and Soda might tickle your fancy.
The Celest trainers are chunky and comfy, and would compliment a black or neutral midi dress nicely by injecting some colour into the outfit, which you can draw out draw out even more so in your other accessories.
For instance, slip on a black puff shoulder smock midi dress with these trainers, add a sweep of a bright orange or raspberry lipstick to match the colourful detailing around the ankle, and a clutch to match, or call out the pastel green hue when selecting your bag and jewellery. It’s a simple and stylish way to elevate any look, inject colour and be playful with your style.
To all those who like their footwear sparkly: check out these trainers from Quiz.
The diamante sole will add lashings of glamour to any outfit, but we think these will look best with a fitted midi dress and dainty silver jewellery.
We have also seen many brides slip into a pair of dazzling white trainers on their wedding day to ensure they are comfortable at all costs and can dance the night away on the romantic occasion. So, if you are that bride who wants to be comfortable walking down the aisle, or you know someone who does, these are the affordable, and super luxe looking trainers to achieve that.
If you want a pair of trainers that will never go out of style, choose this pair from Parisian shoe and leather goods brand Bobbies.
We can’t get enough of the off-white and metallic silver version, but they come with metallic pink and green pull tabs too, so whether you are looking for a failsafe pair of trainers to go with any look, or fancy injecting a pop of colour into your wardrobe, both options fit the bill.
Let’s not forget to mention French fashion and beauty is all the trend, so you are more ahead of the fashion curve than you may realise by shopping these super luxe yet comfortable looking trainers.
Clarks is a reliable and longstanding footwear brand we trust when it comes to shoe shopping.
The label is known for making shoes that are good for the feet — and this pair is no exception.
The CraftRun Tor trainers are designed to keep your feet cool and comfortable when you’re on the go, and they’re also very stylish.
Wear them with a cosy knitted maxi dress when the weather is nippy, or team them with a breathable cotton dress when summer comes to stay cool, calm, collected – and comfortable – at all costs.
This eco-conscious design has been created using responsibly sourced leather and suede for the upper body of the shoe, while the inner design boasts a removable part-recycled Cushion Plus foam for the wearer’s optimum comfort.
We know we raved about the Adidas Gazelle trainers earlier in this article, but we love them that much we couldn’t not recommend the Bold version, which is essentially a platform design.
The Gazelle Bold has a high platform, making these a good choice if you want to add height when wearing a maxi dress to stop it from draping on the floor too much.
These trainers will really shine when styled with a luxurious neon or brightly coloured satin cowl-necked dress, a dress with a thigh high split to show them off, or a sporty T-shirt dress for an everyday elevated yet effortless casual ensemble.
Bershka’s platform trainers are as affordable as they are chic (hint: they’re very chic, and very affordable).
In our opinion, these resemble the stylish Nike Dunks all the fashion firm are wearing, and have been for a number of years, but Bershka’s creations come with a more affordable price tag. In fact, these trainers are even more purse friendly now they are on sale.
These trainers boast a chunky platform heel, which are giving us major 90s Spice Girls vibes, and come in contrasting pastel hues, such as soft pistachio green and white, or pink and white, plus an all white and all black variation.
Go full on 90s style with a bodycon mini dress, or an oversized T-shirt dress, maybe even with a pair of high socks if ankle socks don’t cut it.
You might not think to put Jordans with a dress, but you absolutely can.
Air Jordans are one of the most popular trainers for men and women, and have been for a few years now, which comes as no surprise as they are super versatile.
The Air Jordan 1 Low Trainers are the perfect companion to a basic midi racerback dress or a mini tennis-style dress. You could even wear them with a basketball jersey over a plain white t-shirt, if you like, or other oversized t-shirt dress for a relaxed and sporty look.
The leather upper make these super durable, resistant to the elements, but also easy to clean and maintain, while the monochrome colourway means this style is timeless and can coordinate with any outfit.
Those looking for an affordable pair of trainers which are versatile enough to pair with dresses, as well as joggers, jeans, and everything in between, we recommend a pair of hi-top sneakers because they can be styled a number of ways.
NastyGal has created a pair of chic trainers, which are a hybrid between Converse All Stars High Tops, and Louboutin trainers with the vibrant contrast coloured sole, so there are a number of boxes being ticked when you make this purchase.
These trainers are made from faux leather upper, and a ribber flatform sole, which is a subtle detail but this texture adds a little extra je ne sais quo to the design we love.
The flash of denim on this pair of trainers is the standout feature, that’s for sure. For a Y2K-esque double denim moment, style these with a denim dress. Or, just rock them with a simple coloured slip dress.
Champion’s pink platform trainers are the perfect balance of sporty and girly. They’re equal parts practical and pretty and would compliment a loose midi T-Shirt dress excellently.
Did you know Ugg makes trainers too? They might not be lined with sheepskin like the brand’s famous boots, but — made with flexible and breathable materials — they’re still very comfortable. Rock these midis and maxis.
If you ever visit a Spanish city, you’re bound see Bimba y Lola trainers on the feet of all the cool locals. This popular trainer style is made of durable leather and flexible technical fibres, which is exactly what you want if you’re constantly on the move. This colourful version will be a stunning match with a breezy cotton mini in the summer, or a black knitted midi in the winter.
Scandinavian fashion is all about simplicity, and you can’t get simpler than these white leather trainers from Swedish brand A Day’s March. Pick any dress in your wardrobe, and we guarantee that it’ll go with these trainers.
These Zara running trainers are unique and the frayed denim gives them an edgy laid-back feel. Wear them with a contrasting black fitted maxi dress (ideally with some kind of slit) to draw attention to your feet.
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