Fashion Editors Are Quietly Swapping Their Trendy Trainers For This Under-The-Radar Pair

Here's the thing: my closet is stacked with ballet flats, kitten heels, and Birkenstocks, with the occasional Speedcat trainers thrown in the mix, so I've never really claimed to be a sneaker expert. But I don't need to be a certified sneakerhead to know that a certain trainer I've spotted on the most stylish people I know (and as a fashion writer, I know many) is a pretty major deal. But here's the plot twist, the trainer is not from the usual sportswear suspects. Not Adidas, Puma, or even New Balance. No, the trainer currently seducing fashion insiders comes courtesy of Dries Van Noten.

Given that the Belgian brand is largely known for its brilliantly refined yet opulent prints and colours, as well as its flattering, considered design, it was only natural that the trainers in question follow suit. They're sleek, elevated, and so discerning, it would feel almost criminal to wear them to the gym.

The streamlined trainers – rendered in trendy suede, patent leather and even metallic and python-effect styles – lean into the retro sportswear silhouette that has been incredibly popular since the Adidas Sambas went viral a few summers ago. Detailed with curved leather accents and served up in an assortment of sorbet-hued shades, the Dries Van Noten trainers add a hint of a '90s vibe while somehow still feeling distinctly modern.

Shop: Dries Van Noten's Trainers

Little surprise then, that whether you're traipsing down Holland Park or Le Marais, you're likely to spot an impossibly well-dressed woman (or two) sporting the chic trainers. Fashion-forward celebrities are also on board; Hailey Bieber was spotted in her pair at Coachella earlier this year, and Harry Styles has taken his for a spin out in London on multiple occasions.

What is it about these trainers that has the style set falling so hard? Well, comfort is a given, but it's also the easy yet polished styling potential they present. Whether you invest in the neutral black or tan style, or opt for a pop of red or silver, these trainers easily slip into any outfit formula. Running errands? Style them with your best jeans and a simple white T-shirt. Heading to work? They'll add a playful touch to your pinstriped blazer. On a warm summer day, wear them with bermuda shorts and barely there ankle socks (just don't tell your Gen Z niece). Come fall, they'll look great with trousers and cosy knits – simply add a pair of woollen socks to keep warm.

A bit more elevated than most trainers dominating Instagram feeds and beloved by in-the-know insiders, these Dries Van Noten trainers have sold out in the past, so get your hands on a pair while stocks last.

Shop: Alternate Colours Of The Dries Van Noten Trainers

Main image credits: ©Instagram/@smythsisters @prohoda

Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.