Every capsule wardrobe needs a pair of white trainers (or sneakers if you're in the US). Comfortable, endlessly versatile and eternally stylish, there are few fashion pieces that are such an easy win when you're choosing what to wear.
Whether you're pairing them with straight-leg jeans, wide-leg trousers, midi dresses or loungewear, white trainers are the ultimate off-duty shoe. But these days they make a frequent appearance in office attire, too.
They can be used to dress down a trouser suit, and as we move into summer I'll be wearing them with dresses to add a more casual element too.
- The trending pair: adidas Samba Trainers, £100 / $120
- The royal-approved pair: Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Trainers, £65 / $75
- The pair to wear with dresses: Veja Campo Trainers, £100 / $160
- The chunky pair: Nike Zoom Vomero 5 Trainers, £144.99 / $120
- The high-street pair: John Lewis Fiona Leather Trainers, £66
Celebrities & royals wearing white trainers
Everyone from the royals to A-list celebrities and top fashion designers have a pair of white trainers in their repertoire. Princess Kate prefers a sleek style, choosing Vejas or Superga Cotu Classics, while Kendall Jenner tends to wear chunkier pairs, from basketball-inspired Nikes to retro New Balance. Katie Holmes shows hers off with cropped straight-leg jeans, and I love them as a finishing touch to Olivia Palermo's all-white tailored ensemble.
How I chose the best white trainers
- Brands: I've only included brands tried and tested by the HELLO! shopping team. Universally-loved sports labels like Nike and adidas are no brainers, while the likes of Superga and M&S get impressive reviews.
- Style: I've included a range of silhouettes, from minimal and sleek to chunky and statement.
- Price: Equally, I've included something for every budget, from trainers around £20 to pairs at the £200 mark.
The best white trainers for women
1/9
adidas Samba Trainers
Editor's Note:
Loved by the likes of Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and most recently Cat Deeley - the adidas Samba trainers are still the shoe of the season and continue to fly off the shelves. The cult sneakers have now been released in countless colourways, and additional styles, like these LTs.
2/9
Veja Campo Trainers
Editor's Note:
Veja's sleek Campo trainers are made with ChromeFree leather with mixed suede panels. The celebrity-favourite brand prides itself on being sustainable and is loved by Princess Kate and Meghan Markle, who both have a pair.
With their minimalist design, I love them styled with skirts and dresses in both mini and midi lengths.
3/9
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Trainers
Editor's Note:
The Superga Cotu Classics are a plimsoll worn by Princess Kate. She's stepped out in the style for numerous royal engagements over the years, and it's no wonder as they're so classic and versatile. They have a sleek lace-up design that she pairs with everything from tailored trousers to straight-leg jeans and summer shorts.
4/9
Nike Zoom Vomero 5 Trainers
Editor's Note:
The trainer of the moment is Nike's Zoom Vomero 5s. The chunky style with metallic accents are so comfortable and a welcome change from the ever-popular Air Force 1s.
5/9
New Balance 550 Trainers
Editor's Note:
Inspired by 90s basketball sneakers, the New Balance 550s are the ultimate chunky trainer that work to elevate any look. I'd wear them with wide-leg jeans or a loungewear set this spring.
6/9
John Lewis Fiona Scalloped Detail Leather Trainers
Editor's Note:
John Lewis might not be the first brand you think of when shopping for white trainers, but this popular pair gets five-star reviews for their style and comfort. Made from real leather and with foam underfoot cushioning, they'd make a chic addition to any outfit.
7/9
Lacoste Lerond Pro Trainers
Editor's Note:
First created by tennis champion René Lacoste in the 1950s, his eponymous brand's luxe trainers are still bestsellers today. Made from luxurious Nappa leather, the Lerond Pros are super durable but soft and lightweight.
8/9
Axel Arigato Clean 90 Sneaker
Editor's Note
If you're looking to invest in a pricier pair, Axel Arigato's Clean 90s are the perfect chic and minimalist style. Made from 100% leather, set on partly recycled rubber cup-soles, they also feature discreet gold logo accents at the sides.
9/9
M&S Lace Up Trainers
Editor's Note:
Marks & Spencer's sleek white trainers are bestsellers thanks to their classic design and low price point. Not just stylish, they also feature the brand's signature Insolia Flex technology to ensure your feet are correctly placed and stay comfortable all day.
