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Stylish trainers for work

117 replies

Alwayssupportingdifference · 30/08/2025 06:18

Hi I need some stylish trainers to wear for a conference. I’m senior management but will also be helping with logistics and mucking in so need to be comfortable while also having professional meetings all week. Also have plantar fasciitis mildly so need to be careful.

I generally don’t have any problems with styling myself but have no clue when it comes to trainers. I’m 50 years old. Don’t want to look like going to gym. Will be wearing with cropped trousers and a top. Pref all white or all navy. What brands are best for my age and the situation please and where from?

OP posts:
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Wadadli · 01/09/2025 15:20

ChocoChocoLatte · 01/09/2025 11:23

@CarefulN0w @Wadadli

I can’t walk in the flat converse at all but I LOVE my slightly curved, platform ones. So much so am on my second pair.

I’d rather walk barefoot on burning coal than wear Converse or Birkenstocks! 😂 Give me Hoff, Nike or FitFlops for casual wear in the tootsie department 😂

ChocoChocoLatte · 01/09/2025 15:24

@Wadadlieach to their own lol

I loved my birkies but can’t wear them anymore sadly. The cork no longer agrees with my chemo ravaged feet.

my thick soled converse or fit flops are my usual go to these days, alongside some air & grace sandals

TaffyandTeenyTaffy · 01/09/2025 15:54

I wear Clarks Un Rio.... they come in both navy and white but not sure if they are current as I have them from the outlet shop (or online). Ive had the lace up and velcro crossover strap versions and find them super comfy and good for PF as they have very a slight wedge. I can't wear flat.

www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/un-rio-sprint/26162695-p

Justgorgeous · 01/09/2025 16:34

Hoff.

deeahgwitch · 01/09/2025 17:00

Wonders Samira - white with some silver are great. A bit of a platform and very comfortable.

ParmaVioletTea · 01/09/2025 17:17

What brands are best for my age and the situation please and where from?

I'd have a look at Camper. They are arty-groovy, and recognisable to shoe aficionados. I love variations on the Peu model, but it might be a bit too "barefoot" for you with plantar fasciitis. You could look at their quite dressy trainer, Pelotas, or the Twins range is fun.

ChampagneRose · 01/09/2025 17:58

I have PF and for ages could only wear Brooks wide fit. I’ve now managed to find some new balance that are comfy https://www.newbalance.co.uk/pd/327/WS327V1-42713.html . Their fresh foam ones are lovely but a bit too unworky.

I also wear All Birds but they are not as supportive as some of the others.

Plastictreees · 01/09/2025 19:40

BlondeFool · 30/08/2025 07:12

Adidas Samba

I made the mistake of purchasing a limited edition pair of these, tempted by the flower print. They are agonising to wear! They rub the back of my ankle and no amount of ‘break them in’ will solve the problem.

Apparantly many others have similar issues with these shoes. I wouldn’t buy again.

JimmyGiraffe · 01/09/2025 21:21

SwallowsandAmazonians · 30/08/2025 10:14

I also wear fitflop rally for conferences with lots of walking. I have silver ones which look fine with dresses.

I really like the silver ones!

JimmyGiraffe · 01/09/2025 21:25

londongirl12 · 30/08/2025 20:13

I love the smart adidas suede pumps.

Can you post a link to these?

TiredyMcTired · 01/09/2025 22:22

OP, I have Plantar Fasciitis too, and dodgy knees, so have also been down the comfy but appropriate footwear’s for work route.
If you want something a bit smarter than a sporty trainer, try Fitflop or Geox. They both do trainer style shoes that have amazing heel cushioning and arch support. Also Skechers do some arch support trainers that are pretty good. I also have a couple of pairs of Dune wedge trainers that I have worn to death, they are so comfortable- like theseDune Eiline

Eiline 2 Cream, Lace Up Wedge Trainers | Dune London

Shop Eiline 2 Cream Lace Up Wedge Trainers at Dune London. Take your casual styling to the next level with our Women's range. Next day delivery.

https://www.dunelondon.com/eiline-lace-up-wedge-trainers-cream-2026500620004133.html

sweetpea567 · 02/09/2025 21:15

Geox do some smart and comfortable trainers, expensive but you can get them cheaper sometimesg on m and m direct

GEOX Womens Blomiee Trainers Navy

GEOX low profile lace up trainers with side zip fastening.

https://www.mandmdirect.com/01/details/G130211/GEOX-Womens-Blomiee-Trainers-Navy

CleverButScatty · 02/09/2025 21:31

OffToSeaInABlizzard · 30/08/2025 22:06

But in that case, @Pherian the OP would surely be better off taking advice on the best footwear for her specific feet from a podiatrist, rather than fashion advice on MN? As I understood it her foot condition was only an additional consideration, and not the main reason why she wanted trainers for her conference.

(If it were me I’d much rather have a supportive pair of boots into which an orthotic insole could be inserted.)

Tbh the OP does not need to gain the approval of a medical professional to decide she would rather wear trainers than loafers/shoes.

As a grown adult she can make this decision all by herself.

solvendie · 02/09/2025 22:38

I know you said you don’t want a ‘trainer’ trainer but ……. I need to wear trainers due to ankle injury. Surgery has left my tendons weak and my plantar sore. I wear these and they look great with navy/blue dresses or cropped or wide trousers

https://www.on.com/en-gb/products/cloudvista-2-3we3013/womens/glacier-eclipse-shoes-3WE30130818

Cloudvista 2: Versatile Women’s Trail Shoe With Grip | On

The adventurous women’s trail shoe to unlock the great outdoors. Now with improved grip and softer cushioning. Find out more.

https://www.on.com/en-gb/products/cloudvista-2-3we3013/womens/glacier-eclipse-shoes-3WE30130818

averythinline · 02/09/2025 22:57

Birkenstock bend low in black leather... They sort of disappear can wear insoles if needed

Orangemouse25 · 02/09/2025 23:46

I have plantar fasciitis and I wear the sketchers uno walk on air, they are so comfy, and correct the arch in my feet so my fasciitis doesn't bother me that much. Sketchers do them in a range of colours, oh and I'm almost 49! I wear them for work, have them in a few colours! https://www.skechers.co.uk/uno---stand-on-air/73690_WHT.html

Orangemouse25 · 02/09/2025 23:49

forgot to add a pic!

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