The question of “Can you wear trainers with a suit?” is probably more controversial in the UK then on the Continent where suits and more relaxed footwear are seemingly more acceptable and more readily embraced. While we feel there is still very much a place for formal shoes in professional work settings or for certain occasions, the smart-casual suit look can be achieved with the right choice of trainers or sneakers. There are rules though!
Rules for wearing trainers with a suit
- No running shoes…even if they are brand new. Leave these sporty styles for your runs or other sweat-inducing pastimes. Even with the best of care, sports trainers will start to wear or get dirty. However, even trainers straight out of the box are the not the vibe for suits.
- Choose quality trainers or sneakers to match the spirit of your suit. A suit is a smart outfit so match this aesthetic with equally smart trainers or sneakers.
- Go for leather or suede rather than synthetic mesh favoured by sports shoes.
- Choose a neutral shade. Wearing trainers with a suit is not an opportunity to roll out the neon! Like you would choose black, brown or navy shoes to accompany a suit, apply the same rhetoric to your trainer choice. White trainers and sneakers are the exception though.
- Keep them clean! White trainers, especially, must be sparkling. In the same way you would polish your formal shoes, look after your sneakers-for-suits too.
- Choose a tailored or slim-fitting suit to team with your trainers. You may want to consider a shorter leg or turn up to create a break between your suit and your trainers to highlight their existence.
- Do not wear trainers where formal attire is expected. Certain professions or work dress codes will be a no-no for trainers, as well as weddings, funerals, graduation ceremonies, black-tie events, job interviews, etc. The exception will be if a casual dress code is stipulated then fill your boots (or sneakers) but make sure you check!
Trainers and sneakers to wear with suits
Smart trainers and sneakers have long been a part of our portfolio to meet the need for the gentleman who can wear more casual shoe styles at work or likes a dapper style for the weekend. Let’s run you through our latest styles that we think are suit ready.
The Brisbane
The Brisbane trainer blends a high-quality calf combination on an exceptional Extralight sole. Like a Vibram sole, Extralight is an expensive addition to any shoe as they provide amazing comfort and durability but also look amazing. We have this style in brown, navy and tan, and dark grey and tan as the perfect collection of neutral shades to team with your suit of choice.
The Paris
The Paris is a supremely comfortable trainer on, again, an authentic Extralight sole for grip, lightness and durability. These premium soles are trusted by the best manufacturers, so we had to spec them in our latest designs. We have used premium suedes with a printed finish and soft calf leathers to create an elegant rival to mass produced brands. Choose from navy, tan and black.
The Metz
Handmade trainers and sneakers are hard to find, so if you want something that has the quality of your welted shoes but in a more casual look, we have what you need! The Metz is a sneaker has a lovely combination upper in neutral greys and a top-quality sole for comfort.
The Amalfi
If you are looking for white, the Amalfi is our latest and greatest cup-sole sneaker. Clean minimalist lines make Amalfi a classic for everyday wear and with a sharp suit. Made from the highest quality leathers with the best quality European soles, these are a sound investment. We have used a small family-run factory in Portugal to create these so you can enjoy artisan levels of quality at mainstream prices. The Amalfi is also available in black.
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