So the other day on Insta (I'm so so so sorry, that's where I've been living recently.  I am TRYING to get my new blog layout sorted but it's bottom of the pile of priorities and that's TOTALLY my doing as it means moving to a new platform.  Which means change.  And right now, I don't have the brain space to be able to get to grips with that.  It may just be the straw that broke the camel's back) I mentioned that I tend to launch straight from sandals to boots and trainers. 

And pretty much most people agreed with me.  What has happened to the humble shoe?  I will be exploring that in more detail another day but for today, I am devoting a whole blog post to trainers. 

They're no longer a bold footwear statement, they're not unique, they're not a fashion thang, they are a wardrobe staple.  Yes, there are different styles that you can choose from and I've got some options for you today.

There are the classic, pared back styles, some vintage style reruns and of course those that are a nod to this season's trends.

And I'll start with them.  You can pay a fortune for these.  At the designer end of the scale, these are what you will find.  For ££££.  But hallelujah for our highstreet, there are some fantastic options around which, unless you have a microscope and can search for a designer label, generally you would be hard pushed to know the difference. 

They're also great for just trying the trend.  If you do decide you love them and they are your fave shoes ever and want to invest in a more expensive pair at a later date, then fair enough but first off, if you want to (literally) try them on for size, 

So here we go - and bear in mind that we're starting with the marmite varieties.  These are VERY on trend BUT the reason I love them is that they can work wonders to totally alter the look of a potentially more prim outfit.  A work suit that you've had for years and perhaps don't wear as much as you did - throw it on with a plain or logo tee and a pair of these and you've got a whole new outfit.  They also look great with any sort of dress.  Chuck on a blazer, biker or trench and your outfit is completely new seaon ready. 

Stradivarius gum sole chunky trainer £39.99


From H&M £34.99




With a hint of colour.  Perfect for adding just that little bit of interest into a monochrome outfit. 

Gola Eclipse Trainers from Anthropologie £80




White Atworth Trainers from hush £139




Of course they're not going to be for everyone.  I'm going to say that I like them but I'm not SURE if I love them yet... 

The pared back classic trainer is still the route that I prefer.  (ask me again in a month or two when I can't get enough of them...).

And there are lots to choose from BUT if I had to pick just one pair that isn't going to break the bank, it would be the Stan Smiths. 

Adidas Originals Stan Smith in classic green £75




Adidas Originals Stan Smith in navy £75





Similar but at a much more palatable entry level price point.

ASOS DESIGN Doro chunky trainers in white £28




Leather alternative for those who love all things leopard at Boden. 

Classic Trainers £75




And in the snake - also from Boden and also £75




Black star versions in leather at M&S £45



Variation on a theme also at M&S, in suede. 

Leather Suede Panel Lace Up Trainers £49.50




These however are also pretty fabulous.  AND they happen to look identical to the Isabel Marant pair which are probably at least 4 times as much. 

Reebok Club C trainers £70




These are also on my hit list from The White Company - the Veja Esplar Trainers £95



However the Converse are a very, VERY close second.  And I've gone ever so slightly off piste with a bit more red on them than a classic white trainer should have BUT THEY'RE SO GORGEOUS! 

Converse white western hi tops £60




A more cost effective version at New Look. 

White Canvas Hi Tops £14.99



Or there are the Gola which I tried on last week in Anthropologie and I can confirm that they're pretty darn fabulous.  They also do them in a black which I loved but I think I'll save that for another day. 

Gola Cadet Hi Tops £55 from Anthropologie




And sneaking some silver ones in at the end. 

Skye Hi Top Trainers from hush £55 (which they also do in black).


And here I am in mine which my friend gave me (I KNOW!) from Russell & Bromley.  She got then as a present but they don't fit her (awks), however they are perfect on my trotters.  RESULT.

Tee - Zoe Karssen from TK Maxx (about 5yrs ago)
Jacket - Zara (3yrs ago)
Slort - LabelMIx (current from a paid partnership)
Trainers - Russell & Bromley (from a friend)
Bag - Jerome Dreyfuss (4yrs ago)
Sunglasses - Accessorize (current)

So things I've got coming up as the season is well and truly in full swing.  Got to be knee high boots.  And then jumpsuits and possible my favourite style coat - the check version. 

I WILL be back (said in my best Arnie voice).