From Kate and Meghan to Katie Holmes, Everyone Loves These French Trainers
When Emma Watson and Meghan Markle wore a pair of trainers by the conscious French brand Veja, it quickly became one of the most talked-about sneaker brands in the UK. The classic white basket sneaks (made from recycled plastic bottles and wild rubber) feature the distinctive V logo in varying colours on each side. Kate Middleton has also given her seal of approval, along with celebrities far and wide, from Reese Witherspoon and Emily Ratajkowski to Katie Holmes.
Kate Middleton wearing Veja trainers.
Emma Watson first wore the trainers back in October 2016, but it wasn't until 2018 when Meghan Markle wore them that the simple lace-ups started gaining such widespread popularity. And with the Duchess of Cambridge having worn them repeatedly since last year, the popularity of these understated, sustainable trainers has only grown. Much like other classic trainers (think Converse and Vans), these have rapidly become a staple for when you need a comfortable yet stylish pair of shoes. Plus, these sneakers are so minimalist in design that they work with every type of ensemble—from midi dresses to straight-leg jeans.
Kate proving they look great with cropped trousers.
The Veja V-10 leather trainers arrived on Net-a-Porter in early 2017 and became the second and third best-selling pieces globally (only beaten out by a Gucci T-shirt) the same week they launched. The real impressive feat, though, is that they remain in Net-a-Porter's top 10 best-selling products today, so it's no surprise I constantly see them on editors and on Instagram constantly.
And if that's not enough to make you want a pair, then you might change your mind after scrolling through our edit of the best Veja trainers. Plus, there's even a guide to how fashion girls are wearing theirs for outfit inspiration.
HOW TO STYLE VEJA TRAINERS
Meghan Markle wore her Vejas with black skinny jeans, so now, we want to wear our Vejas with black skinny jeans.
Katie Holmes pairs hers with straight jeans and a smart coat for a perfect spring or autumn outfit.
French girls approve.
Don't they look great with white jeans?
The ideal accompaniment to puffer coats for winter walks.
Ellie Delphine just made us fall for the tan version.
SHOP VEJA TRAINERS
If you like your trainers a bit chunkier, I think you'll love the Venturi.
This mint-green option is one of Net-a-Porter's best sellers.
This retro silhouette is a new addition for Veja.
We've had our eyes on these for a while now.
Next up, these are the biggest spring/summer fashion trends to know.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
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