I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval.

I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval.

      Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn firmly established, we seized the chance to try on some of the best new arrivals from your favorite brands, documenting our experience. We believe that the ideal way to shop online is to see items in real life and read honest reviews, so we hope this helps you make your best purchases of the year. I eagerly accepted the opportunity to test out the trending trainers for autumn, those styles I adore but may not need (or have space for in my wardrobe). I've considered myself a bit of a trainer enthusiast for several years, adept at recognizing upcoming trends, which I always choose over loafers or ballet flats.

      Not every trainer can claim the esteemed title of being a must-have this season. From timeless white trainers to buzzing launches like the New Balance X Miu Miu collaboration—which has undoubtedly become one of the most coveted designer trainer collections—there are a few key indicators that suggest a style is bound to sell out. First, they seamlessly fit into a capsule wardrobe, offering versatility and ease of styling (essentially, you can wear them repeatedly without losing their elevated feel). Second, you’ll see them on those in the know. Among so many trends, only a few seem to unite both fashionistas and celebrities alike, so if they do, you’re headed in the right direction. Finally, they must be genuinely comfortable. By 2025, the best trainers should feel like walking on clouds—with no need for breaking them in.

      After trying on various pairs trending for autumn 2025, I’ve selected the five that stood out, so if you’re in the market, scroll down to see the pairs worth investing in for the upcoming season.

      **The Best Trainers for Autumn 2025, Tried and Reviewed By an Editor**:

      1. **Dries Van Noten Leather-Trimmed Sneakers**

      *(Image credit: Who What Wear)*

      **My Review**: With a nostalgic ‘70s vibe influencing the trainer scene, streamlined styles with skinny soles and rounded toes now seem commonplace, but Dries Van Noten's Leather-Trimmed Sneakers truly set themselves apart. Attracting fans like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, these trainers showcase clean lines, a soft suede finish (unless you opt for the leather and fabric version), and a complementary two-tone color scheme that balances the classic trainer look with a fresh 2025 twist. I’ve noticed them replacing Adidas Sambas in the outfits of stylish Instagram users, so trying them out was essential.

      They fit like a glove, and their minimalist design instantly enhances anything they’re paired with. To my dismay (I hoped they wouldn’t be as impressive in person due to their higher price point), they lived up to the expectations. Though the flat sole provides minimal cushioning, that’s part of their charm—they almost conform to your feet, which is a desirable trait I seek when searching for trainers: they give a refined appearance to your feet. Anyone with larger feet can relate to this challenge. While many trainers, from chunky to flat-soled styles, tend to exaggerate my shoe size, these do the opposite; their sleek, sculptural design creates the illusion of petite feet without compromising their fashion-forward edge.

      Whether you choose the classic tan suede or the best-selling Bordeaux leather-and-fabric option—both trending colors for autumn 2025—you’ll add a perfect subtle splash of color to your casual autumn wardrobe, ensuring your trainers elevate rather than detract from your overall look. To test them out, I styled the suede pair with a timeless autumn capsule outfit: light denim jeans, a chunky knit sweater, and a khaki trench coat; they appeared as polished as I had hoped. I paired the Bordeaux variation with the popular Dries funnel-neck jacket over the same jeans and knit. The jacket, with balloon sleeves, a high collar, and a cotton-wool blend, strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and structured, making it ideal for layering. Chic, versatile, and fashionably modern, these are definitely worth your time and investment.

      *Shop the Trainer*:

      **DRIES VAN NOTEN**

      Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers in Tan

      **Dries Van Noten**

      Leather-Trimmed Sneakers in Bordeaux

      *The yellow laces are a fun detail.*

      **Dries Van Noten**

      Balloon-Sleeve Jacket

      *I don't think I’ll take this off all winter.*

      2. **COS Minimal Leather Trainers**

      *(Image credit: Who What Wear)*

      **My Review**: Now that we're in agreement about the return of slimline trainers, I must highlight COS's minimal leather trainers. Seen on influencer Lucy Williams at the brand’s spring/summer 2025 presentation in Athens, there was quite the buzz in the Who What Wear UK office when these designer-inspired trainers became available. Now, I know you may have doubts about high-street trainers, but hear me out. With a reputation for high-quality

I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval. I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval.

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I've tried on countless pairs of fashionable sneakers this year—only these 5 have received editor approval.

A carefully refined list.