The Style Crowd Have Spoken, And These Are The Trainers You'll Be Wearing This Summer
Image by: @bzrstreetstyle
Sorry sandals, these are the sneaker styles that will go with all my summer outfits
As the good summer weather kicks in (rejoice!), chatter inevitably turns to sandals. However, let’s face it: despite counting down the days until we can wear them again, this quintessential summer shoe often falls short in the comfort and practicality departments. Think about it—lack of support, grubby toes, the constant need for a pedicure, and they only really complement your breeziest holiday pieces. Instead, I’m focusing on updating my core footwear collection for the new season: my trainers.
Over time, trainers have transcended their gym floor origins to become everyday wardrobe essentials. Frankly I can’t imagine how I managed certain outfits—from activewear to suiting—without them. Once upon a time, they’d be at the top of any nice bar’s ‘banned’ list, while many of us would stash a pair to quick change into on our daily commute before clip-clopping our way through the revolving door of the office in heels. But now, trainers are the shoe to keep you on your feet from the start of the day to the very end, no matter what you’ve got pencilled in. While some trainer styles are taking a backseat (thank you, Prime Minister), there’s one brand whose appeal has never faltered: New Balance.
Every few seasons, certain styles and brands ascend to cult status and New Balance’s beloved 550s quickly became the fashion girl’s go to. Inspired by 90s basketball, these brand signatures aren’t what you’d call a ‘Dad’ sneaker (you can hit up the New Balance 530 for that) but are perfectly nostalgic thanks to their chunky fit and flat sole. As a result, they pair as effortlessly with a sleek pair of Adenola leggings as they do with tailored wide leg trousers or even your favourite picnic dresses. But there’s way more to New Balance than just the 550s. The brand has rolled out plenty of styles that promise to be just as crowd-pleasing. For instance, the New Balance 327s offer a retro aesthetic with modern comfort, making them perfect for both casual outings and more polished looks. Meanwhile, the New Balance 9060s, with their vibrant colour options, are perfect for an injection of Y2K styling – great with cargo pants if you’re willing, or perhaps a linen maxi skirt. They might be made with function in mind with the kind of comfort technology to accompany you on a 5k run, but there’s zero requirement to do anything more in these than look sensational.
Below I’ve gathered a few of my favourite New Balance kicks, chosen with summer in mind. Box-fresh whites, hints of colour, but most of all versatile enough to go with everything I intend on wearing from here on out.
New Balance
327 Shoes
£110.00
The New Balance 327 shoes bring a retro vibe with a modern twist, and in the navy and grey colourway they bring just the right amount of colour without impacting their versatility. Also, way less harsh than black - no?
New Balance
530 Shoes
£100.00
The New Balance 530 shoes are a nod to the brand's running shoe legacy, infused with something of a futuristic flair. That chunky sole provides excellent support for all-day wear, whether you’re dressing up your athleisure or adding a sporty edge to a summer dress.
New Balance
9060 Shoes
£160.00
The soft, muted green hue feels perfect for lazy afternoons sat on the grass with a selection of picky bits and your favourite Ganni dress.
New Balance
550 Shoes
£120.00
The original and the best when it comes to what fashion girls want on their feet, these are the undisputed champion of going with absolutely everything you own. The all-white design will receive endless wear all summer long.
New Balance
574 Core Shoes
£95.00
You want something darker but black feels too stark for summer? The deep grey mixed with rich suede and mesh is a winner.
New Balance
327 Shoes
£120.00
Top tip: bringing in off colour and a bit texture is a sure fire way to instantly elevate your look versus plain, bright white leather. Try it and see.
New Balance
574 Shoes
£100.00
But why am I convinced that these will go with so many pieces in my wardrobe? From natural linen trousers, to beige tailoring, and crisp white cotton shirts and dresses, the orange acts like a more vibrant summer neutral.
New Balance
9060 Shoes
£160.00
If you love that chunky retro look, these really do tick all the boxes. The hint of colour adds an earthiness that feels very chic too.
New Balance
CT302 Shoes
£110.00
With a clean and minimalistic aesthetic, these tennis shoe inspired trainers feature a sleek silhouette that pairs beautifully with everything from tailored shorts to sundresses. The extra cushioned sole ensures proper comfort too for all-day wear, and a little bit of extra height while you're at it that will help you out with longer, wide leg trousers.
New Balance
Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 Shoes
£160.00
Featuring innovative Fresh Foam X cushioning, these trainers lean more heavily into the performance side of things - that means unparalleled support and a plush feel with every step. But their poppy, modern design makes them versatile enough to transition from your morning run to a casual day out.
New Balance
574 Shoes
£100.00
Again, green is so versatile during the warmer months. Find some matching sunnies to go with and you'll find these easy to wear 574s featuring in all your favourite looks.
New Balance
327 Shoes
£110.00
With, an angular reworking of the tried-and-true wedge silhouette, outsize, asymmetrically applied ‘N’ branding, and wraparound, trail-inspired lug outsole, the 327 is a fresh take on the ultimate 70s running shoe. It feels a little smarter than your average sneaker making it perfect for tailoring at the office.