4 Shoe Alternatives to White Trainers That Make up My Seasonal Wardrobe

If you've also googled alternatives to white trainers in the last few days, we're in the same boat.

There was a time when white trainers were the only shoes I reached for. Running errands? White trainers. Heading to the office? White trainers. Trying to make a dress feel more relaxed? You get the idea. Their appeal is obvious—they go with everything, they never feel too try-hard, and they've been a solid wardrobe staple for years. But recently, I've found myself wanting something… different. Not a complete departure from the ease of a white trainer, but an update. Something with a little more character. If you're feeling the same way, you might be on the hunt for alternatives to white trainers. And trust me, there are plenty of great options.

It's not that white trainers don’t still work—they do. But after seasons of heavy rotation, they can sometimes feel a little predictable, especially when you lean toward a minimal wardrobe like I do. I've noticed the same sentiment from a few of our Gen Z WWW editors, which, honestly, surprised me. If anyone was going to be over our classic, reliable millennial shoe of choice, I assumed it would be them. But no—they've embraced them just as much, integrating them into their trend-heavy wardrobes in a way that makes them feel fresh again. The difference? They're not only wearing white trainers. Instead, they're styling more classic shoe silhouettes—boat shoes, clogs, ballet flats—in ways that feel relaxed and relevant.

Runways backed this up, too. Spring and summer 2025 saw a return to simple, wear-forever footwear. At Bottega Veneta, flats were styled with sheer, barely-there fabrics, proving they can feel just as statement-making as a towering heel. At Miu Miu, the boat shoes reign emerged, with models wearing them with everything from tailored shorts to relaxed suiting. And while loafers and Mary Janes continue to have their moment, I've had my eye on four classic silhouettes that offer the same versatility as a white trainer but with a little more personality.

Of course, practicality still plays a part. I need something that can handle long days of walking, commuting, and running between meetings without sacrificing style. And low and behold, after some research (ahem Instagram stalking of my favourite fashion people) I seemed to have found four alternatives that fit the bill, each offering a different take on everyday dressing—some leaning more polished, others more casual—but all are just as easy to wear as a white trainer. Keep reading for my picks.

Shop Chic Alternatives To White Trainers:

1. Boat Shoes

Style notes: I'll admit, boat shoes weren't on my radar until recently. For years, they felt a little too “summering in the Hamptons,” but the new wave of styles is far less preppy and far more wearable. Softer leathers, slightly chunkier soles, and a more relaxed shape make them feel less yacht club and more effortlessly cool. I've been styling mine with slouchy trousers and an oversized knit—an easy way to balance out their slightly polished feel. They also work surprisingly well with denim shorts and a crisp white tee for a minimal spring outfit that still feels considered.

Shop Boat Shoes:

2. Birkenstock Bostons

Style Notes: If you've been on Instagram at all in the last year, you've seen these. The Boston clog is everywhere, and while they're not new, their appeal isn't fading anytime soon. They have that easy cool, slightly undone vibe that makes any outfit look considered—even if you're just wearing them to grab coffee. I like to contrast their chunkiness with something softer—think a silky slip skirt and a lightweight knit. They also work well with baggy denim and a simple tank for a more relaxed feel.

Shop Birkenstock Bostons:

3. Clarks Wallabees

Style Notes: Wallabees have always had a bit of a cult following, but lately, I've been seeing them everywhere. There's something about their slightly retro, '70s feel that makes them so interesting. They're casual but not sloppy, classic but not boring—the perfect middle ground. I've been seeing them worn with wide-leg trousers and a simple tee—letting the shoes do the talking. They also pair well with longer skirts for that cool, slightly unexpected proportion play.

Shop Clarks Wallabees:

4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ballet flats are everywhere again, and I couldn't be more thrilled. They're simple, classic, and work with just about everything. But this time around, they feel less polished, more lived-in—perfect for dressing up or down. I've been loving the contrast of ballet flats with oversized pieces—baggy jeans, slouchy tailoring, structured blazers. They also look great with cropped trousers and a lightweight knit for something a little more classic.

Shop Ballet Flats.