At some point during my formative years, someone told me that the surest way to be chic was to wear black – and I believed them. While I’ve since learned about the joys of dopamine dressing and dipping into trends like Brat green, the majority of my wardrobe is still on the dark side. It’s practical for many reasons – not least because I’m guaranteed to spill my lunch every day without fail – but in truth, it’s not very fun. 

So, for the past few months, I’ve been on the hunt for key pieces that will inject some colour into my wardrobe and make getting dressed a more joyful occasion. The only criteria was that they had to complement the clothes I’ve already got. 

As I was wandering down Carnaby Street, I spied the answer to my sartorial prayers in a shop window: a pair of sunshine-yellow trainers so eye-catching and cool that I had to have them immediately. The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66s are neat, nostalgic (remember Uma Thurman rocking them in Kill Bill?) and super comfortable. I’ve barely taken them off since, and even when the rest of my outfit is unremarkable, they always get a compliment from a friend or colleague.

If you’re looking for a quick way to inject some off-duty cool into your everyday outfits, a pair of statement trainers is the easiest way to do it. Here’s where to shop my new favourite pair – plus, three more colourful trainers that are editor-approved for summer and beyond. 

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands