What Trainers to Wear With Dresses: Style Guide

Trainers and dresses were once considered an unlikely pairing. Today, the combination is a genuine style statement, championed by everyone from Serena Williams to Kendall Jenner. If you're wondering what trainers to wear with a dress, you've come to the right place.

In this guide, we'll cover:

• Is it OK to wear trainers with a dress?
• The best types of trainers to wear with a dress
• How to wear trainers with a maxi dress
• How to wear trainers with a mini dress
• Frequently asked questions

Browse our full women's trainers collection for styles to suit every dress.

Is It OK to Wear Trainers with a Dress?

Yes - and it's more than OK. Pairing trainers with a dress is stylish, comfortable and practical, and it works for almost any occasion.

The look is flexible by design. Dress it up with a sleek leather trainer for an evening event, or dress it down with a classic white trainer for a daytime outing. This versatility is exactly why the trend has stuck around: it lets you enjoy the elegance of a dress without sacrificing the comfort of a trainer.

The Best Trainers to Wear with a Dress

Choosing the right trainer comes down to your personal style. Here are the styles that work particularly well.

Classic White Trainers

A white trainer is endlessly versatile, working just as well with a floral sundress as it does with a monochrome shift dress. White trainers bring a fresh, clean finish to an outfit without competing with the dress for attention, making them a reliable choice for both casual days and smart-casual occasions.

Shop the full range of white trainers to find your perfect match.

High-Top Trainers

High-tops add a retro edge to an outfit and work particularly well with mini dresses or dresses with a flared silhouette. Because they draw the eye down towards the leg and shoe, they're a great option if you want a livelier, more energised look for daytime events or evenings with friends.

Explore our high-top trainers collection.

Slip-On Trainers

Slip-on trainers are a favourite for anyone who wants an easy, no-fuss outfit that doesn't compromise on style. Neutral tones create a sophisticated finish, while bold colours and prints add personality. They pair particularly well with midi and knee-length dresses, where their sleek profile complements the streamlined shape of the dress.

Browse our slip-on trainers range.

Leather Trainers

For a more polished finish, leather trainers add a touch of sophistication to a dress-and-trainer outfit. Paired with a fitted midi or pencil dress, a sleek leather trainer creates a smart, elevated look that works well for evening events and more formal settings.

Discover our leather trainers collection.

What Trainers to Wear with a Maxi Dress

A maxi dress and trainers are a winning combination when the proportions are right. The aim is to work with the flowing shape of the dress rather than overwhelming it, so these trainer styles tend to work best:

• Platform trainers – add height and help balance the length of a maxi dress
• Classic white trainers – complement the flowing silhouette for an easy, casual look
• Slip-on trainers – lightweight and streamlined, they suit the relaxed profile of a maxi dress

Chunky trainers are best avoided with maxi dresses, as they can unbalance the silhouette. For an extra style touch, try tying the hem of your dress to reveal your trainers.

What Trainers to Wear with a Mini Dress

A mini dress and trainers make for a fun, vibrant combination - ideal for summer days, festivals or casual outings. Consider these options:

• High-top trainers – their edge adds proportion and energy to a mini dress
• Classic white trainers – a versatile choice that brings a sporty, fresh feel to the outfit

Layer with a denim jacket, sunglasses or statement jewellery to complete the look.

Shop high-top trainers or browse our full women's trainers range for more options.

Trainers and a Dress: A Match Made for Every Occasion

Wearing trainers with a dress is a versatile, comfortable and stylish choice for almost any setting - from casual days out to more formal evening events. Whichever trainer style you choose, the combination is a reliable way to stay comfortable without compromising on style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear trainers with a formal dress?

Yes. A sleek leather trainer in a neutral colour can work well with a more formal dress, particularly for smart-casual events. For traditional black-tie occasions, a heeled shoe is still the safer choice.

What colour trainers go best with a dress?

White trainers are the most versatile option, as they complement almost any dress colour or pattern. Neutral tones such as black, tan or grey are also reliable choices for a more understated look.

Are trainers appropriate for a summer dress?

Yes. Slip-on trainers are particularly well suited to summer dresses, as they're lightweight, breathable and casual in style.

Do trainers work with a midi dress?

Yes. Classic white trainers and leather trainers both pair well with midi dresses, as their sleeker profiles complement the dress's streamlined shape.