Trainers with everything: 3 ways to wear

It’s no secret I’m a huge advocate for trainers, I love the way they dress down an outfit and can allow me to go about my day in a much smoother, quicker fashion. And since having a baby this has never been more necessary (although now I’m almost cursing being so mobile whilst pregnant as Peggy can’t fall asleep in her pram unless I’m walking at a lightning pace!).

When I first saw this dress (admittedly, it was via Does My Bum Look 40’s Instagram Stories), I knew it needed trainers (or a great simple flat sandal – A Piedi do gorgeous ones if you’re after a super comfy pair that will last). The dress was quite parachute like but it was loose and had buttons which was exactly what I needed for post pregnancy. A few friends have bought this dress after seeing me wearing it with trainers as it just makes the whole thing more wearable.

A few years ago I would never have worn a red maxi dress in the day but this feels great.

These are more ‘plimsolls’ I suppose, and something I felt was missing from my wardrobe (in truth, nothing is ‘missing’ from my wardrobe but that’s how I justify it!) – I have Converse high tops but wanted something a bit simpler and pristine and less chunky to wear with tea dresses. Veja is a vegan brand I’ve been looking at for a while (their ethos is so great) but the versions I like are always sold out, so when I saw them in Arket a few weeks back I knew I had to try them on – and they’re so comfortable I’ve rarely taken them off since.

Next up are the ‘dad’ trainers. This style is huge right now and like them or not, this pair are amazingly comfortable. I first heard of Walsh trainers via Hannah from En Brogue, they’re made in the UK and vegan too! So when Boden collaborated with the brand I was keen to get on board (I was gifted this pair).

Again, I have worn these with dresses but I love the utility look of pairing them with a jumpsuit. This is a great outfit for meetings as I still feel smart, or a good weekend look (yep, breastfeeding friendly).

And lastly are the trainers I get asked about ALL the time on social – the mustard Vans. I have had a pair of black Vans for years and although tough to break in (the backs of them are rather stiff), it is totally worth doing.

I first stumbled upon these Vans with Lucy Williams in Philadelphia whilst shooting for Free People and we both immediately went home and bought them! My black vans had died and I love the colour of these – ‘Glazed Ginger’ – nice to have a common pair of sneakers in an unusual colour. Skate style trainers make polka dots and frills seem less ‘girly’ and suit that tomboy vibe I am used to (and the mini bag brings it back to girly again).

I know, I know, the little bags again. But don’t worry, I still have an eco bag of all my ‘stuff’ to carry around – and I’m lucky now as I can put that bag under the pram now! This bag does also come with a long cross-body strap but I like the cuteness of it without – more Alexa Chung vibes (I’m hoping, anyway!).

This is what I’ve been living in lately, and also note that all of these outfits would work really well with flat sandals and heels too for something less casual. I always try and strive for a wardrobe that can be easily adapted for any situation – that way I never have to panic buy for an event. All of these looks can be changed dramatically by adding a jewelled earring and a kitten heel. Done.