Smart trainers for work - styling dos and don’ts

As the workplace moves away from the trappings of traditionally formal attire, trainers have begun to find their spot into weekday outfits. We’re not talking about fluorescent colours and super sporty looks, but with the right styling and design choices, trainers can become a smart casual, yet comfortable choice for the office.

There’s no sign of this trend leaving any time soon, so here are some of our top tips for working trainers into your weekday rotation and finding their place in the professional world.

Choosing the right trainers for work

When planning which trainers to wear for work, you’ll want to steer clear of those that are geared towards sports - often those that come in bright eye-catching colours and ‘out-there’ designs. There are plenty of trainer options that follow a more fashionable path. Neutral or dark colours can be great workplace trainers as they offer a more subtle look than those you’d see on athletes. Good colours for work trainers, depending on your workplace could be:
- Cream
- Navy
- Black
- Pastel colours
- Metallics
- Beige

It’s not just colour that you need to consider when you’re choosing trainers to wear to work. Opt for those with smart suede, leather or canvas materials which offer a formal, luxe look. These often come with chunky soles or streamlined shapes which whilst still comfortable, provide a fashion-forward look. When you’re looking for trainers for the office, think about how you could style the material, colour and design with the typical outfits you’d wear to work.

Dress code policy and workplace culture

Before donning your new kicks and heading into work, you might need to check your office dress policy. Although smart casual or casual offices will embrace the cool, comfortable footwear, you might find that there’s no flexibility in some settings. Often business casual or corporate offices will want you to stick to formal office attire and even the smartest trainers will have no place.

The culture or industry of your workplace can also have an effect on what you’ll be able to wear to the office. Creative industries, or those where employees are frequently on their feet will embrace trainers as part of dailyoutfits. Industries like banking, or those that require protective clothing like manufacturing or construction won’t allow trainers at work. If in doubt, it’s best to check your employee handbook or ask HR whether trainers are allowed.

How to style trainers at work

Trainers are one of the most versatile footwear styles, so when it comes to pairing them withoutfits for the office, there’s plenty of options. Chunky soles offer a wonderful balance against flowing midi and maxi dresses, and skirts, or pair white canvas trainers with capri trousers or cool culottes.

Smart jeans are also making their mark in contemporary office wear and when paired with a tailored blazer and smart trainers provide a stylish take on a modern suit. Trainers in neutral tones can be worn with a variety ofoutfits as they are so versatile. Another smart casual office look is a tailored shirt tucked into jeans and paired with leather trainers - throw over a jumper in the cooler months and that outfitcan be worn all year round.

Work trainer quick guide

If you’re going to be pairing your trainers with jeans then there are plenty of options to suit. Balancing out slim-fit trousers with trainers like these casual cupsole trainers, will offer a balance and create an interesting silhouette. Floaty dresses are lovely with sandals, but during transitional seasons, or offices where open-toed shoes aren’t allowed, trainers can offer an excellent alternative. High top trainers can work well to balance out shorter or midi dresses, whereas a maxi dress can be enhanced with a chunky soled pair. We like these casual trainers for a chic dress look. 

If you’re looking for a snappier option, perhaps with leather or suede to edge you towards the smarter end of smart casual, then why not try these Rieker cupsole trainers or these lace up trainers?

FAQs - wearing trainers at work

Can you wear smart trainers to work?

If your office dress policy allows then smart trainers can definitely work in the office. Pair with cool, effortless outfits for a contemporary take on the traditional suit.
 

Is it ok to wear trainers to work?

Wearing trainers to work can be a great way to boost your workplace comfort and stay stylish. It’s becoming more popular to leave behind the traditional office wear in favour of cool outfits that can still be smart.

Can white trainers be smart casual?

White trainers are a fantastic and versatile footwear option for the office. They can be paired with tailored blazers, jeans and t-shirts or blouses for a smart casual look that still means business.

Can you wear trainers with work trousers?

Trainers with work trousers is a great way to introduce different footwear into your weekday outfit rotation. Not only do smart trainers look great with jeans, but they’re also fantastic with slim-line work trousers, capri trousers and even culottes.

Styling summary

So, when it comes to wearing trainers in the office, we’ve got five golden rules:
1. Check your office dress code policy to make sure trainers will be welcome.
2. Stick to neutral colours and prints that can be paired with plenty ofoutfitcombinations.
3. Materials like leather, suede and canvas look smart and luxe.
4. Style your trainers with smartoutfits to provide a contemporary balance.
5. Embrace the cool comfortable trainer look with confidence.