Yes, you can wear trainers for work. Here’s how

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Yes, you can wear trainers for work. Here’s how

By Billie Bhatia

6 years ago

Trainers are fashion’s biggest crush – and they’re not just taking over your weekend wardrobe. After reading this, you’ll want to wear them to work, too.

There was a time when you’d only pair trainers with workwear in order to get to and from the office in a timely fashion. The shoes in question lacked any kind of excitement: often of the performance variety, they were stashed away in a backpack and swapped for a pair of spindly heels as soon as you reached your desk.

But that time is over. Rejoice! Trainers are no longer just for a comfortable (and speedy) commute to work. Whether it’s a slick white leather trainer with a trouser suit or a chunky dad-like style with a floral skirt and trench coat, the right pair of sneakers has the power to transform your workwear wardrobe in a flash. 

Still don’t believe us? We’ve put four trainer-based work looks together so you don’t have to. Now, if these don’t put a spring in your step to face a new working year head on, we don’t know what will! All hail the humble trainer. 


Suits You

A slightly oversized suit in a classic hue paired with white trainers is a look that’ll never fail.

Joseph blazer

Joseph

You’ll keep this classic blazer in your wardrobe for a lifetime. 

Shop Joseph marshall toile de laine jacket, £595

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Joseph trousers

Joseph

Stick to white, cream or beige top underneath to keep it looking effortlessly sleek. 

Shop Joseph fender toile de laine trousers, £345

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Veja trainers

Veja

Add a subtle hint of colour with neon detail – it’s key for spring/summer 2020 so these kicks are an easy way to try out the trend. 

Shop Veja Esplar trainers at office.co.uk, £89.99

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& Other Stories high neck top

& Other Stories

Switch it up by styling a silky slip skirt with the Veja trainers and a trench.

Shop & Other Stories cropped relaxed fit turtleneck, £65

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Dress It Up 

Toughen up a floral dress with a chunky mesh style. 

Kitri dress

Kitri

This long sleeve frock will also work just as well with knee high boots.

Shop Kitri Fiona floral print midi dress, £145

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Bottega Veneta trainers

Bottega Veneta

Fashion award winning brand Bottega Veneta isn’t just for ‘it’ bags and heels. Make the investment into designer trainers, too. 

Shop Bottega Veneta speedster low-top leather trainers at matchesfashion.com, £575

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Cos bag

Cos

The 90s baguette bag was key in 2019, and it’s sticking around this year.

Shop Cos leather baguette bag, £125

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Ganni trench coat

Ganni

A trench coat is the style that you can buy – and wear – at any time of year. 

Shop Ganni cotton blend trench coat at mytheresa.com, £390

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Crop Out 

Sport sneakers work best with a wide-leg cropped trouser. 

Zara cardigan

Zara

Slouchy knits look so good with chic leather trousers and trainers.

Shop Zara checked knit cardigan, £59.99

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Jason Wu trousers

Jason Wu

Long gone are skintight leather trousers. This time around it’s all about the wide leg roomy styles.

Shop Jason Wu cropped leather wide-leg pants at net-a-porter.com, £865

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Adidas trainers

Adidas

This chunky sole style has long been a favourite among fashion editors. 

Shop Adidas Originals Yung-1 mesh and nubuck sneakers at net-a-porter.com, £90

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Arket T-shirt

Arket

Arket is known for housing quality basics you can rely on. 

Shop Arket crew neck T-shirt, £15

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Make a statement

A designer pair of kicks can lift a simple look with minimal effort. 

Topshop jacket

Topshop

The shacket will be your favourite item from work, to drinks, to weekend. 

Shop Topshop tan jacket with wool, £59

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Missoma earrings

Missoma

You’ll wear these way beyond 9-5.

Shop Missoma gold calima hoops, £115

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Lee Mathews skirt

Lee Mathews

Update a tonal look with a pair of Gucci kicks. 

Shop Lee Mathews Stella picot-trimmed silk-satin midi skirt, £279

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Gucci trainers

Gucci

A logo pair will create a retro feel that’ll update any work look.

Shop Gucci ace sneaker with stripe at farfetch.com, £445

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Images: Getty 

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