Emily Ratajkowski Just Wore the Controversial Trainer Trend I Still Can’t Believe Is a Thing

I think it's fairly obvious at this point that Emily Ratajkowski is no shy dresser. With a penchant for bold outfits and often unexpected accessory options, the model is no coward in the face of a controversial trend.

Stepping out for a walk in NYC, Ratajkowski casually styled her lasted divisive buy in a manner that's stopped me in my tracks. Wearing her knee-grazing denim shorts with a black tank top and a pair of sunglasses, Ratajkowski's outfit was off to a fairly inconspicuous start. However, upon closer inspection, it was clear that her shoes weren't the standard mary janes you might have assumed they were on first glance. Instead she chose a pair of ballet trainers from London based brand Foundry Mews.

Half ballet flat, half trainer, the ballet trainer trend strikes a controversial cord by blending the two seemingly opposite shoe styles together. With a chunky, rubbery sole—akin to the kind we wear for our morning runs—and a more delicate, round-toe silhouette, the trainer trend offers an entirely fresh silhouette that can equip your outfit with the element of surprise.

Emily Ratajkowski wears ballet trainers

(Image credit: Getty Images)

This isn't the first time I've seen this trend out and about. Already being offered up across a few of my favourite high street and designer brands, ballet trainer shoe trend is set to become big news this season.

Love it or loathe it, the shoe trend is a playful alternative to the leather ballet flats, mary janes and sandals that typically dominate across the summer months. For a low-key look that's ideal for errand running, reach for a comfortable tank top and style with denim shorts à la EmRata. Alternatively, wear these with a flowing dress or white cotton shirt for a fashion-forward look that any London stylist will commend you for.

If you too fall at the intersection of intrigued and inspired by this unusual shoe trend, read on to discover our edit of the best ballet trainers below.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST BALLET TRAINERS HERE:

Natalie Munro
News Writer

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.