Sure, White Trainers Are Timeless, But These Statement Pairs Are Much More Now

Trainers have always been a staple in my wardrobe. As a millennial, I've spent years playing it safe and gravitating toward classic white styles—the kind that go with everything and never feel out of place. But lately, something's shifted. Blame it on the rise of statement dressing or the way Gen Z has completely redefined what "cool" looks like, but suddenly, trainers aren't just an afterthought—they're the main event.

Scrolling through my feed, it's impossible to ignore the shift. The latest Spring/Summer 2025 runways only confirmed what I’ve been suspecting for months: trainers are bigger, bolder, and more expressive than ever. At Miu Miu, we saw sporty silhouettes styled with ultra-feminine pieces, proving that trainers can be just as directional as a sky-high heel. Gucci leaned into nostalgia with retro-inspired kicks that felt straight out of the early 2000s, while Loewe showcased minimalist, sculptural trainers that blurred the line between fashion and art. There's no one-size-fits-all approach anymore, and I, for one, am fully embracing the change.

I still love a classic, but I can't deny the appeal of a chunky sole or a bold colour. And it's not just me—across generations, the way we wear trainers is evolving. Millennials have traditionally leaned into sleek, low-profile styles, while Gen Z is all about statement-making silhouettes that feel fresh and playful. Even retro pairs that were huge in the '90s and early '00s have made a huge comeback in the last decade, and Gen Z are fulling embracing the cult styles, proving once again that fashion is, at its core, cyclical.

So, where does that leave us for 2025? Whether you're loyal to your minimalist sneakers or looking to experiment with a trendier pair, the new wave of statement trainers offers something for everyone.

The bottom line? Trainers are no longer just the practical choice—they're the statement piece your wardrobe needs. Be that bold platforms, nostalgic retro styles, or sleek, minimalist designs, 2025's biggest trainer trends have something for everyone. And if you're anything like me, you'll probably end up adding more than one pair to your collection. Below, I've broken down the five key styles that are dominating right now—along with the pairs that are currently topping my wish-list.

Shop the 5 Statement Trainer Trends 2025:

1. Designer Collabs

Style Notes: The trainer world has fully embraced the power of collaboration, and some of the most exciting drops right now are coming from high-fashion-meets-sportswear partnerships. Whether it's Cecilie Bahnsen's ultra-feminine take on Asics or Loewe's sleek reimagining of On Running's performance sneakers, these collaborations feel fresh, directional, and worthy of the hype. The beauty of these trainers is their versatility—depending on the collab, they can be worn in an ultra-minimalist way or as part of a bold, maximalist look. I love styling them with a mix of sporty and feminine elements—think a vintage-style tracksuit jacket over a delicate slip dress or a pleated midi skirt with a boxy sports tee.

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2. Bold Coloured Trainers

Style Notes: Colour is back in a big way, and nowhere is that more evident than in the trainer world. Gone are the days of sticking to neutrals—this year, the brighter, the better. Whether it's a bold mix of primary shades or softer pastel blends, multicolour trainers add instant personality to any look. Leaning into the playful energy of this trend, I love pairing multicolour trainers with unexpected textures and silhouettes. A ruffled mini skirt with a sporty windbreaker? This trend is all about having fun.

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3. Retro Trainers

Style Notes: The nostalgia train isn't slowing down anytime soon, and that means retro trainers are officially back on the agenda. The resurgence of old-school classics like the Adidas Samba and Nike Cortez speaks to our collective love for all things vintage. These styles were once athletic essentials, but now they're a fashion staple in their own right. If you’re leaning into the full throwback aesthetic, try styling retro trainers with a vintage-style sports jacket and a micro mini or layering an oversized football jersey over a sheer dress. This trend is all about embracing nostalgia but making it feel modern.

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Style Notes: Love them or hate them, chunky trainers are here to stay. The "dad shoe" trend might have started out as a niche streetwear moment, but it's now fully embedded in the fashion mainstream. This season has seen even bigger exaggerated soles and oversized proportions—It's all about making an impact. Chunky trainers work best when they're balanced out. I like pairing mine with streamlined silhouettes—like straight-leg jeans or a fitted mini dress—to keep the proportions in check.

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5. Textured Suede Trainers

Style Notes: Suede trainers are making a quiet but powerful comeback, offering an alternative to the usual leather or mesh styles. The softer, more tactile finish adds depth and a slightly retro feel, making them a great choice for those who love classic silhouettes but want something a little different. Suede trainers add a bit of richness to even the simplest outfits. I love them with slouchy knits and wide-leg trousers in colder months or with lightweight dresses and ribbed socks when the weather warms up.

Shop Solid Colour Trainers: