Apologies to flip-flops and ballet flats, but I believe summer dresses will always look best with this type of shoe.
When the warm weather rolls around, there's nothing quite like a summer dress. Whether you prefer a soft shirred maxi or a silky mini, the right choice will carry you throughout the season. Once you've selected your dress, the next challenge is typically deciding what shoes to wear with it. Many have their go-to footwear options—think cozy strappy sandals for those who like classic styles, or for a more edgy look, consider a ruched front loafer. Almost anything pairs well with a dress. However, trainers are often less commonly seen alongside dresses.
This might be surprising. Last year, fashion enthusiasts were enamored with the combination of trainers and dresses. This reliable pairing is not only low-maintenance but also quite versatile, suiting various occasions. Planning to attend a festival? A flowy dress will keep you comfortable, while trainers offer better support for rough terrains. Traveling abroad? They’ll make navigating those cobblestone streets much easier. While it seems that fashion influencers have shifted toward jelly shoes and ballet flats, a few celebrity style icons are currently wearing trainers, reminding us of how stylish this combination can be. From Kaia Gerber to Anne Hathaway, celebrities are showcasing various dress and trainer combinations, so why not join in? Here are five outfits that will work as well this summer as they will next:
1. Maxi Dress + Sporty Jacket + Trainers
Style Insights: Dresses don’t always have to evoke a 'feminine' vibe. Millie's take on this pairing features a cotton brown dress and a sports jacket for a more relaxed feel. Coupled with a sleek bun and silver trainers, this is a look I plan to imitate.
Shop the Look:
- DISSH: Alexia Ruched Cotton Midi Dress
- adidas Originals: Firebird Track Top
- Adidas: Taekwondo Trainers
2. Polka Dot Dress + Trainers + Shoulder Bag
Style Insights: Polka dots have been in fashion since last summer, particularly on stylish tops, jackets, and knee-length skirts. The polka dot dress offers a classic interpretation of this trend. Paired with simple trainers, it makes for a practical summer outfit.
Shop the Look:
- Nobodys Child: Polka Dot Lace Trim Iris Midi Dress
- Adidas: Vl Court Bold Shoes
- Reformation: Elena Shoulder Bag
3. Pleated Dress + Baker Boy Hat + Trainers
Style Insights: Who does it better than Emilie Sindlev? She shows us how to refresh this pairing, making it feel edgy. Her sporty off-white dress, combined with silver sneakers and a camo baker boy hat, creates a look that the best-dressed Gen Z would surely love to recreate.
Shop the Look:
- SIMKHAI: Quinlin Striped Satin Bustier Midi Dress
- Urban Outfitters: Bdg Camo Utility Cap
4. Check Dress + Wax Jacket + Satin Trainers
Style Insights: One thing I admire about Rebecca's style is her boldness with prints. This check dress and jacket in burgundy tones pair beautifully with soft pink satin trainers. We all recognize and adore the Miu Miu satin trainers, but there are also more budget-friendly alternatives that blend elements of ballet flats and trainers.
Shop the Look:
- Damson Madder: Katana Hanky Midi Skirt - Cardamon Check
- Miu Miu: Plume Satin Sneakers
- Nobodys Child: Khaki Cord Detail Barn Jacket
5. Mini Tank Dress + Technical Trainers + Cool Accessories
Style Insights: Sometimes, especially during a heatwave, simplicity is key. The ideal summer dress, like the tank style worn by Ruby here, may be basic, but your accessories don’t have to be. You can compensate for fewer layers with standout accessories—resin bangles, stylish sunglasses, and a crossbody bag for all your festival essentials will elevate this casual dress and trainers look.
Shop the Look:
- ADANOLA: Ultimate Strappy Stretch-Woven Mini Dress - Xs
- Nike: Nike P-6000 Utility Junior
- ASOS DESIGN: Pack of 3 Resin Bangles With Burgundy
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Apologies to flip-flops and ballet flats, but I believe summer dresses will always look best with this type of shoe.
The perfect combination.