Swapping Heels for Trainers

Fashion’s love affair with trainers is still going strong, but had you met me three years ago and asked me “When was the last time you wore flat shoes?” I’d have looked at you blankly, raised a (not on fleek) eyebrow, a tumbleweed would have blown by, and I’d have simply replied I can’t remember. I was a heels girl through and through. Block heeled ankle boots, sky-high stilettos, perfectly pointed court shoes- you name it, if it had some blockish form elevating me a good few inches off the ground, then it would be the only thing gracing my feet. But moving to London and realising that walking absolutely everywhere was an unfortunate necessity of my new life that didn’t bode well with my high-heel wearing feet simply happened to coincide with trainers becoming cool. And although I’d still never turn down a pair of vampish, vertigo inducing shoes over some brashly coloured sneakers, the allure of a box fresh pair of white trainers gets me into a little bit of a frenzy like no other.

The thing is, not all white trainers were created equal. Executed in premium crisp textiles, Lacoste’s Straightset in off white delivers style and quality in a muted palette. Perfect for this season, the tennis- inspired silhouette offers the label’s trademark easy elegance with tonal laces keeping the look clean. Sit them alongside tailoring for a fresh, urban touch to workwear, a complete antidote to the commuter-chic vibes you often see when you play trainers up against office staples. Rubber outsoles and leather linings enhance comfort and nod towards Lacoste’s athletic heritage, whilst subtle sophistication comes from exquisite levels of details on the embossed croc logo. Silky nappa edged in a tonal suede collar make this shoe feel so of the moment.

For the Autumn/Winter 2015 season, Lacoste has referenced its tennis roots without resorting to literal recreations, reflecting the brand’s dedication to respecting its past while looking firmly to the future. The footwear collection is underpinned by the idea that ‘Life is a Beautiful Sport’, a concept that seamlessly brings Lacoste’s sophisticated blend of performance and elegance to the everyday.

Photographs by Carl Thompson