I've been known to occasionally flirt with sleek black boots and ballet flats, but if I'm being honest, trainers are the only shoes I truly care to wear.
Their unbeatable comfort and inherent cool factor make them my go-to, and more often than not, I struggle to justify wearing anything else. Naturally, I’m always on the lookout for trainers that feel fresh, and over the past few months, one style in particular has caught my attention.
More dynamic than minimalist white trainers, yet less overtly statement-making than the neon-soled, hyper-technical designs that we see so much of, contrast trainers are the perfect middle ground. Featuring just two colours, the result is a honed trainer that I would argue looks more elegant than cluttered, clashy pairs.
Depending on the colour combination, contrast trainers can take on a completely different mood. A crisp white base with cherry-red overlays instantly feels bold yet classic, tapping into a retro-sport aesthetic. Meanwhile, a softer pairing—think muted grey and sage green—leans more understated, blending effortlessly into a neutral wardrobe. This versatility is part of their appeal: they’re eye-catching without being overpowering, and this makes them so easy to style.
It's no surprise that plenty of brands are experimenting with the style. Miu Miu sent a pair down its autumn/winter 2025 runway in a sheeny green-and-grey finish. Paired with knee-high socks and a printed dress, the trainers felt fresh yet relaxed—a subtle way to disrupt an otherwise polished outfit with a casual touch.
A model wears contrast trainers on the Miu Miu autumn/winter 2025 runway.
These trainers already have the approval of some of the fashion industry's favourites. Whilst Kendall Jenner styled her black pair with olive-green trousers and a leather jacket, Iris Law crafted a more casual look, styling her grey-and-black pair with a flowing jacket and casual track pants.
I've curated an edit of the best contrast trainers available to shop now, so read on to discover the pairs I love.
SHOP CONTRAST TRAINERS:
This playful green-and-yellow colour combination is one of my favourites.
Miu Miu's trainers are a resounding favourite within style crowds.
These look so much more expensive than they actually are.
These also come in pink and blue.
All of my most comfortable trainers are New Balance.
This pretty colour combination will add some interest to your spring wardrobe.
Style with denim or a relaxed pair of trousers.
These also come in two other shades.
-
Before You Invest In Mesh Flats, Consider the Newer Version I Keep Seeing Fashion Girls in Lisbon and Miami WearingCopenhagen, New York, and Barcelona, too.
-
Don't Buy New Sambas Without Seeing These Cool-Girl Sneakers That Just LaunchedThey might or might not also be from Adidas.
-
It's Shocking How Much Cooler This '90s Sneaker Trend Makes Jeans and a Blazer LookThey transform classic outfits.
-
35 Incredibly Chic Finds I Immediately Shared With My Fashion-Editor Friends When I Found ThemThey're so good I want them all.
-
Fashion People Are Buying These 4 Flat-Shoe Trends atReplica Store This SummerYour guide to this season's must-have styles.
-
Fashion People in Their 20s and 50s Wear This Flat-Shoe Trend With Skirts to Look ChicHint: It's not loafers.
-
If You Hate Flip-Flops, Try the Viral Sandal Trend Everyone With Good Taste Is Wearing This SummerYou can trust me.
-
Return Those New Flats—*These* Are the Cool Shoes Fashion People Are Wearing With Dresses and SkirtsFresh and unexpected.
