Trainers with workwear

[LolaSmiles]

I don't particularly like the trainers with more formal workwear style/trend, but with a change in role I'm needing to rethink some of my work outfits without spending a fortune.

I think wearing a pair of nice or stylish trainers might be something to try, but it really isn't my natural style. I also dislike the white trainers with skirts/dresses trends and only wear trainers with active clothing or my approach shoes with a jeans and jumper outfit.

I like converse lo and high tops and other canvas style shoes, but still want to look polished and put together for work.

What tips would style and beauty mumsnetters give to avoid looking clichéd ?

Placeholding for this one, I've recently started at a new workplace and despite the organisation's dress policy, last week I seemed to be the only person there not in trainers.

Like you, it's not a look I'm a fan of and prefer to look more polished, my style is classic and comfortable. I keep trainers for the gym/walks!!

I think smart trainers look really good with wide leg trousers, so this is a look that can easily be made business-appropriate.

I've got a pair of dull silver adidas trainers that I wear with everything

If you don't like the look don't force yourself.

You could try a brogue or a brogue/trainer hybrid like this

Or this

I'd suggest first start with what it is that you think you need to change and why.
Eg is it that noone else in the office is wearing heels? In which case could you try other types of flats (brogues/loafers/ballet flats etc) if you're not keen on trainers?

Or is everyone else wearing trainers? In which case you could go for low key trainers, mono black/grey/navy, no obvious logo? If you look online at clothing brands (eg M&S, Whistles etc) rather than just trainer brands, you might find more of that type if trainer.

Or is it that noone is wearing suits/formal shift dresses/tights etc - in which case try trouser/blouse/knit separates (millions of these in Zara, Mango, M&S etc)?

dameofdilemma
Mine is because a change of role means that trainers or trainer-esque shoes are likely to be the most practical footwear.

I'm not a big heels fan but my overall work style tends to be the smarter end of whichever organisation I'm in.

I like having different 'vibes' between my work style and home style but can see in this role there's probably going to be more overlap.

Could you wear loafers or lace up shoes instead?

I do wear trainers with my workwear now - l also avoid the white trainer/midi skirt look.

I think the key thing is that the trainers need to be pristine. I only wear them when they look like new and then relegate them to every day wear. I have some black lace up leather trainers from Air & Grace, some Saucony ones from Cos and some black trainers from Me & Em. I also wore some Wales Bonner Adidas ones from Net a Porter.

I recently went to a formal meeting and all the (very smart, stylish) women there were wearing trainers - not trendy ones, but fairly expensive ones - I spotted at least one pair from Russell & Bromley