Trainer Trash

Surely one of the greatest dilemmas of all time is finding a pair of suitable trainers. With London being fully stocked with every conceivable brand and with designer collections having that must-have sport element in this season's look, finding the proverbial trainer takes meticulous planning and the research skills of a marketing analyst. To start, and please note this is much more important than the pragmatic practicalities of wearability or cost: one must consider the cool factor. Contrary to popular belief, a pair of trainers is not worn a few hours each week to a pilates class or treadmill encounter, nor is it's sole purpose (pun intended) to outfit your outdoor activity or taking your schnauzer for a walk around Kensington Gardens. The perfect trainer exudes coolness when worn with your Dior suit or faded jeans, and complements your daytime outfit as well as your evening party frock. The perfect trainer, therefore, is one that is comfortable, fashionable, and an all-rounding accessory to your wardrobe. If retaining your street-cred is high on the list, aim to find a pair that does not deviate from the trends (i.e., platform trainers are NOT cool) but to sport a type that either nobody has or at least cannot be bought from a high street near you. This, of course, is where the planning process begins, so make certain you allocate enough time to find those prize shoes.

Please also do not confuse designer trainers with the original creators. The best (retro) designs from Adidas, Nike, and Converse have rarely been matched by the likes of Prada Sport or Louis Vuitton. Those low-soled-striped gems are the crème de la crème of trainer fashion and rip-off just don't cut it. If designer footwear is your thing, Helmut Lang has some fabulous shoes this season, a suede retro low cut trainer with stripes in black or white and a 'Hamlet' leather luxury casual trainer also in black or white, GBP 140 and 155, respectively, from a selection at Harrods. Continuing designer and sporting goods collaborations, such as Jil Sander and Puma, Yamamoto and Adidas have become contemporaries and teamed up to create some glorious footwear in the Y3 range. For something a little more simple and less expensive try the ever-classic Converse at GBP 40 in cream or navy, available at Poste, South Molton Street. Or, if you like, scour the likes of Camden market or professional athletic shops, for that proverbial retro trainer that nobody has.