Before mid-2013, bar Converse, I hadn't worn trainers since P.E. class circa 2005, and even then they got minimal use. Though trainer mania had swept fashion, despite being a tomboy dresser, I was neither a sneakerhead nor a streetwear aficionado, so was reluctant to get on board. How do you wear trainers and look smart and sophisticated rather than as if you've just popped out for a run? What do you team trainers with and will people still take you seriously, or mistake you for a teen?
A few years on, it's safe to say I'm a trainer-convert and my footwear collection comprises at least 6 pairs of 'crepes' (learning fast!). I'm still mastering the art of working them seamlessly into my wardrobe of tailoring, dresses and denim but in 2016 the trainer trend prevails. If you too are looking for some footwear inspiration, we've taken some trainer tips and tricks from some of our favourite Instagram style stars...
Concealed With A Flare
You might think that pairing trainers with an oversized silhouette is a tricky look to pull off and there's the fear you may resemble an aspiring rapper but do like Charlie May, and wear a white trainer with wider-than-wide trousers and a baggy sweater. Cosy and chic.
@charliemay
The New Juicy Couture
Paris Hilton's all pink velour tracksuits with matching kicks are something we're happy to leave firmly in the early 00s but Alicia Roddy expertly demonstrates how to wear trainers with trackies in 2016. Head to her Insta immediately for more examples on how to nail trainers. If you like Vans, Reebok Classics or New Balance, you'll love her.
@lissyroddyy
Under Long Layers
In 2013 Céline had us all wearing skate shoes after the French fashion house released their take on the slip-on sneaker and the highstreet and pretty much every other label followed. Three years on skate shoes are even more popular but if you can't afford the designer price tags, Vans are still the original and the best. Wear with long layers for a feminine, grungy look a la Creative Director India Rose.
@indiaroseco
Pair With Pastels
In a sea of monochrome-obsesssed social media style-setters, we love blogger Frédérique Harrel for her playful approach to colour and print. Yellow and blue trainers might not be top of your wish list but we suggest being bold and taking a risk with vibrant tones when it can look this good.
@freddieharrel
Dress Down A Suit
A suit + sneakers = the ultimate effortlessly elegant style win. Take note from blogger Brittany Bathgate in Stella McCartney tailoring from Vestiaire perfectly paired with Acne trainers.
We're also obsessed with her dishevelled bob but that's another story.
@brittanybathgate
Copy Kylie And Kick Back In Chanel
With 48 million Instagram followers anything Ms Jenner posts is sure to become an instant sellout. At £480 Chanel kicks are at the top end of the trainer spectrum but if you can save up for some/stumble upon a goldmine then put your fashion foot forward in these.
@kyliejenner
Chanel Take Two
Victoria's Secret model Leomie Anderson has been a style crush of our's for sometime and flawlessly pulls off athleisure – and no one looks as good as her in fur and Chanel.
@leomieanderson
Add A Pop of Colour With New Balance
If we could raid one girl's wardrobe, chances are it would probably be Chiara Capitani 's who can pull off skyscraper heels just as well as a bold pair of trainers. Though it might be a struggle to match your ensemble with the cityscape behind you, you can definitely quickly brighten up a monochrome outfit with a vibrant pair of kicks. NB New Balance preferable.
@chiara_grazia_it
(Almost) All Black Everything
We were distracted at length by Vanessa's oversized slit knit from THP-Lab and perfectly-formed LV bag but the real stars of this outfit are her stark white Senso sneakers. Word of warning before you peruse Vanessa's blog and/or Insta, set aside at least 40 minutes. Don't say we didn't tell you.
@thehautepursuit
Upgrade Your Commuter Kit
If you're looking for a comprehensive education in trainers look no further than Illustrator and Designer Sophie Chang who is one of our favourite sneakerheads. We admire her skills at matching her trainers with her surroundings. Here she models grey adidas Ultra Boosts with a matching metal floor on her way to work.
@esymai
Yes to Yeezy
If you're committed to the kick cause, you also need to know Ugly Mely, whose Instagram is a tribute to trainers. The adidas Yeezy boosts sold out in 10 minutes but if you've tracked down a pair, hold onto them for dear life.
@uglymely
The Perfect Bag For The Perfect Shoe
If you're as obsessed with handbags as you are trainers then take a look at Wendy Lam 's Instagram. Whether it's a Supreme toolbox bag, Hermes Birkin or Chanel 2.55, Wendy has a bag for every occasion and every trainer.
@nitro_licious
Pop Into Pam Pam
Based in Bethnal Green, Pam Pam is the UK's first women-only trainer shop. The East-London store offers a tightly edited selection of sneakers, as well as jewellery, homeware and clothing. Our pick of the week is these baby pink Reeboks.
@pampamlondon
Put Your Feet Up
We know it's wrong to put your shoes on chairs but if you follow Instagram Fashion Director Eva Chen 's lead, you'll want to show off your fresh Nikes and floor-sweeping wide-legged pants too.
@evachen212Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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