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Comfortable shoes have never been more popular. Data from retail analytics firm Edited shows sales of stilettos dropped 12 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year. Instead, women are opting for different heel types such as kitten heels, wedges and block heels. At the same time, flat shoes like ballet flats, loafers and boots continue to rise in popularity. And then, of course, there is the ever so popular trainer.
Previously considered unprofessional footwear for women in the workplace, sneakers have had somewhat of a reputation overhaul – and are now staple in our ‘business casual’ wardrobe (office dress code permitting, of course).
‘That image of the peak of femininity being a woman in super high heels, it isn’t there anymore. It doesn’t resonate,’ Katharine Carter, fashion and retail analyst at Edited, told Business of Fashion. ‘More creative sneaker silhouettes or designer flats can be a status symbol as well, equally as much as the heel used to be.’
Not convinced? The key to wearing trainers at work is to look for ‘smart’ styles. Forget trainers that veer into ‘ugly dad’ territory or are too athletic (those Salomons all the influencers are sporting on Instagram might look good on the grid, but they’re not appropriate for professional wear).
Instead, choose sleek and minimalist silhouettes in muted colours: white is an easy choice (just remember to keep them clean); beige is another neutral shade that pairs well with whites, greys, blues and greens; and the same goes for metallics such a silver, which is a good alternative for those who find classic white kicks a little boring.
The best business casual trainers to shop right now
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