I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with.

I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with.

      If you've recently searched for alternatives to white trainers, we're in the same situation. There was a time when white trainers were my go-to footwear for everything. Running errands? White trainers. Going to the office? White trainers. Trying to make a dress more casual? You get the point. Their charm is clear—they match with anything, they don't seem overly forced, and they've been a consistent wardrobe essential for years. However, I’ve recently found myself craving something more unique—not a complete break from the convenience of white trainers, but a fresh take. Something with a bit more flair. If you're feeling similarly, you may be looking for alternatives to white trainers, and there are indeed many excellent choices available.

      It's not that white trainers have lost their charm—they certainly haven’t. But after many seasons of frequent wear, they can occasionally seem a bit predictable, particularly if your wardrobe leans towards minimalism like mine. I've noticed this same feeling echoed among some of our Gen Z editors at WWW, which honestly caught me off guard. I assumed they would tire of our classic, reliable footwear choice as millennials, but instead, they've welcomed them into their trend-focused wardrobes, making them feel fresh again. The twist? They're not solely wearing white trainers. Instead, they're pairing more traditional shoe styles—boat shoes, clogs, ballet flats—in fashionable ways that feel relaxed and relevant.

      Runway trends confirm this shift as well. The spring and summer 2025 collections showcased a resurgence of timeless, enduring footwear. At Bottega Veneta, flats were paired with sheer, barely-there fabrics, showing they can be as striking as towering heels. Miu Miu highlighted the dominance of boat shoes, with models styling them alongside everything from tailored shorts to laid-back suiting. Although loafers and Mary Janes continue to shine, I've been eyeing four classic silhouettes that offer the same versatility as white trainers but with a touch more personality.

      Practicality remains important. I need a shoe that can handle long days of walking, commuting, and darting between meetings without sacrificing style. After some research (read: Instagram stalking my favorite fashion influencers), I've discovered four alternatives that meet these criteria, each offering a different style for everyday wear—some leaning towards polished, others more casual—but all just as easy to wear as white trainers. Keep reading for my selections.

      Chic Alternatives to White Trainers:

      1. **Boat Shoes**

       Style notes: I'll admit, boat shoes weren't on my radar until recently. For years, they seemed a bit too "summering in the Hamptons," but newer styles are much less preppy and more versatile. Softer leathers, chunkier soles, and a more relaxed silhouette give them a cool, effortless vibe. I've been pairing mine with loose trousers and an oversized knit—a simple way to soften their slightly polished appearance. They also look surprisingly good with denim shorts and a crisp white tee for a minimal yet thoughtful spring outfit.

       Shop Boat Shoes:

       - **Miu Miu**: Canvas and Bleached Leather Boat Shoes

       A fashion week favorite—styled with everything from maxi skirts to structured trousers.

       - **Free People**: Yachting Day Boat Shoes

       The ideal pair to choose for boat shoes—an enduring classic that improves with wear.

       - **M&S Collection**: Leather Boat Shoes

       An excellent designer dupe that captures the retro vibe of the Miu Miu versions beautifully.

      2. **Birkenstock Bostons**

       Style Notes: If you’ve spent any time on Instagram in the past year, you’ve undoubtedly seen these. The Boston clog is ubiquitous, and while they’re not a new trend, their popularity remains strong. They exude an effortlessly cool, slightly relaxed vibe that elevates any outfit—even if you're just popping out for coffee. I love contrasting their bulkiness with softer elements—like a silky slip skirt paired with a lightweight knit. They also work well with loose denim and a simple tank for a laid-back feel.

       Shop Birkenstock Bostons:

       - **Birkenstock**: Boston Soft Footbed Suede Leather

       The taupe suede is the ultimate classic, and for good reason—it goes with everything.

       - **Birkenstock**: Boston Shearling Suede Leather

       I bought these for winter and continue to wear them—they feel like walking on clouds.

       - **BIRKENSTOCK**: Boston Suede Sliders

       A more polished iteration in brown suede, perfect for 2025.

      3. **Clarks Wallabees**

       Style Notes: Wallabees have always had a bit of a cult following, but they seem to be gaining popularity lately. Their slightly retro, '70s vibe makes them particularly appealing. They’re casual without being sloppy, classic yet interesting—an ideal balance. I've seen them styled with

I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with. I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with.

Other articles

WWW Curates: The Spring Collection from M&S Has Landed WWW Curates: The Spring Collection from M&S Has Landed M&S has just launched its latest spring collection, and we've already begun marking some essential items. Zara Consistently Remains Ahead of High Street Trends—7 Key Spring/Summer Styles It Has Already Mastered Zara Consistently Remains Ahead of High Street Trends—7 Key Spring/Summer Styles It Has Already Mastered Zara gives a glimpse of its SS25 trends. Ranging from boho chic to soft pinks and buttery yellows, along with beach-friendly knits and braided bags, here are the seven main trends the retailer has successfully highlighted. If you want to shop like a fashion editor, check out these 31 fantastic essentials from Amazon's Big Spring Sale. If you want to shop like a fashion editor, check out these 31 fantastic essentials from Amazon's Big Spring Sale. Discover the top discounted essentials in Amazon's massive Big Spring Sale today.

I’ve conducted the research—here are the shoes that fashion enthusiasts are replacing their white sneakers with.

White trainers are a staple in my wardrobe throughout the year, but they can start to feel a bit out of style. After conducting some research, I discovered four shoe styles that are even more fashionable, perfect for the upcoming spring season.