Some tights-and-shoe pairings feel like a match made in heaven—knee-high boots and semi-sheer tights, for example, are a time tested duo. Others, however, continue to spark debate among fashion circles. Tights and open-toe sandals, though a red carpet staple, remain a rare sight in everyday wardrobes. Another divisive combination? Tights paired with trainers.
While opinions in our team are mixed, one fashion insider who firmly embraces the look is model and singer Suki Waterhouse. Stepping out amid the whirlwind of New York Fashion Week, Waterhouse wore an embroidered leather trench coat, sleek black sunglasses, and an oversized scarf. Yet, as striking as these elements were, they weren’t what stole the show. Instead, it was her unexpected choice of footwear—trainers worn with tights—that truly caught my attention.
Eschewing the predictable Nike or Adidas picks, Waterhouse instead opted for a pair of vibrant orange and pink Kurt Geiger Islington Trainers (£159). Tapping into the colourful trainer trend that has been gaining momentum over the past few months, her choice injected a playful contrast into her winter ensemble with minimal effort.
Though an unconventional pairing, Waterhouse’s tights-and-trainers combination offered both comfort and practicality—ideal for the demands of Fashion Week—while also adding a fresh, unexpected lift to her heavier cold-weather look.
Convincing a number of the Who What Wear staffers who were previously on the fence that this combination is worth another look in, read on to discover our edit of the best tights and trainers below.
SHOP TIGHTS AND TRAINERS:
These high-waisted tights also come in five other shades.
These light beige trainers are so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
Style these with simple trainers or wear with a sleek, knee-high boot.
Adidas' Taekwondo trainers are a fashion person's favourites.
These come in sizes XS—3XL.
Shop the style that Waterhouse loves.
These feature a firm support design for a comfortable fit.
The snake-print design gives these such an elevated finish.
Style with a pretty mini or pair with a long-line dress for a full-coverage effect.
Salomon's trainers are a fashion person's favourites.
I always come back to Swedish Stockings for their chic, high-quality collection/
Be quick—I can't see these staying in stock for long.
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