As a fashion fan and a footwear fanatic, I love nothing more than a new shoe trend, and this season, I've spotted a particularly tempting one enter the conversation. Reluctant to squeeze my feet into any more heels and still not quite ready to fully commit to boots, I've instead tracked down the chic trainer trend that stylish people are wearing right now. An elevated update to our everyday trainers the suede trainer trend is gaining serious momentum this winter (and, if you ask me, is set to stick around well into 2025).
Supple suede adds a polished finish to any piece it touches, but suede trainers are a bit of a contradiction, marrying the impractical (albeit very chic) fabric with a shoe designed for comfort and performance. If not properly protected with a sealant or spray, suede can be prone to staining when it comes into contact with water, so this is probably one reason why suede trainers are peaking in popularity right now—whilst the weather is still pretty dry.
Of course, it's not just trainers that have been given the suede treatment this season. Suede jackets and coats are already all over our favourite brands, we're coveting suede bags; and suede loafers are now a thing, too. Although Miu Miu's pair (from its collab with New Balance) might have kickstarted interest in the style, the influx of suede trainers on the market has to be a result of the fabric's sudden favour.
Inspired to shop the suede trainer trend myself, read on to discover the pairs I love right now, sorted by colour.
SHOP THE SUEDE TRAINER TREND:
1. BROWN SUEDE TRAINERS
Style Notes: If you pay attention to one trainer trend this season, make it this one. Capturing winter's obsession with the brown colour trend, brown suede trainers offer a dose of the season's favourite shade in a relaxed and wearable form. Styling well with shades of blue, brown suede trainers are a natural pairing for your favourite light-wash jeans.
These look so much more expensive than they are.
New Balance trainers are a fashion-person favourite.
These also come in a chic cream colour way.
The contrast detailing adds an elevated edge.
2. RED SUEDE TRAINERS
Style Notes: Polished yet playful, this vibrant shoe trend offers a fresh pop of colour without overwhelming your look. Puma's red Speedcats are a firm favourite in Emily Ratajkowski's and Dua Lipa's footwear rotations, but Adidas and Autry have chic styles, too.
Shop the pair that celebrities are wearing on repeat right now.
This classic design will never go out of style.
Style with a white pair of socks for a coordinated look.
The easiest way to add a splash of colour to your winter wardrobe.
3. BLACK SUEDE TRAINERS
Style Notes: Go back to basics and shop the emerging trend in the one shade you know you'll always be happy to wear. Black suede is a sophisticated alternative to the white canvas trainers that have long lived in our wardrobes and are far less likely to be covered with grime after a few days' wear.
These classic black kicks look more expensive than they are.
Style with jeans or pair with tailored trousers.
I love the gum sole on these.
A classic sneaker option.
4. BLUE SUEDE TRAINERS
Style Notes: The colourful trainer trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down, and for winter 2024, fashion people can't get enough of pretty blue pairs. From sky blue to rich navy styles, blue suede trainers are the sneakers of choice for those who enjoy the brighter side of styling.
These are also available in a dusty grey shade.
Gum soles are another key trainer trend for 2025.
These ultra-comfortable trainers will soon become your most reached-for pair.
This dark-navy shade is so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
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