Sure, White Trainers Are Timeless, But These Statement Pairs Are Much More Now

Trainers have always been a staple in my wardrobe, but as a millennial, I’ve spent years playing it safe and gravitating towards classic white trainers—the kind that go with everything and never stand out.

But lately, something’s shifted. Blame it on the rise of statement dressing or the way Gen Z has completely redefined what “cool” looks like, but suddenly, trainers aren’t just an afterthought—they’re the main event.

Scrolling through my feed, it’s impossible to ignore that trainers are taking over. The spring/summer 2025 runways only confirmed what I’ve been suspecting for months: trainers are bigger, bolder and more expressive than ever. At Miu Miu, we saw sporty silhouettes styled with ultra-feminine pieces, proving that trainers can be just as directional as a sky-high heel. Gucci leaned into nostalgia with retro-inspired kicks that felt straight out of the early 2000s, whilst Loewe showcased minimalist, sculptural trainers that blurred the line between fashion and art. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach anymore, and I, for one, am fully embracing the change.

I still love a classic, but I can’t deny the appeal of a chunky sole or a bold colour. And it’s not just me—across generations, the way we wear trainers is evolving. Millennials like me have traditionally leaned into sleek, low-profile styles, whilst Gen Z is all about statement-making sneakers that feel fresh and playful. Even retro pairs that were everywhere in the ’90s and early ’00s are making a huge comeback, and Gen Z is fully embracing these cult styles, proving once again that fashion is, at its core, cyclical.

So, where does that leave us for 2025? Whether you’re loyal to your minimalist trainers or looking to experiment with a trendier pair, the new crop of statement sneakers offers something for everyone.