Try as I might to mix things up, I have come to accept that there’s one shoe I’ll always wear more than the rest: trainers. Living in London, spending a lot of time on your feet commuting from place to place is a given and, thankfully, these days, trainers are suitable for almost any scenario, from the office to the date-night drinks. It all comes down to how you style them. But a consequence of their universality is that trainer-based outfits can start to feel a bit… dull. I know I’ve maxed out the ways in which to wear mine!
Now, with autumn on the horizon, I’m determined to seek out fresh inspiration. And where better to look than to the Scandi fashion set and their irresistibly chic trainer outfits?
From my research, the Scandi lot fall into two camps when it comes to styling trainers for autumn. The first is sleek minimalism, where trainers are given an effortless, “I-just-threw-this-on” vibe to balance out the more polished aesthetic of contemporary tailoring and sleek separates. The second is more irreverent, where fashionable faces, such as content creator Amaka Hamelijnck, pair trainers with a more playful mix of pieces: Think double denim coupled with brightly-coloured kicks.
However you define your personal style, you’re sure to find a Scandi look that inspires you. Here, see my pick of six trainer outfits curated by our favourite Scandi tastemakers that I’ll be copying this autumn.
7 Scandi-Girl Trainer Outfits to Recreate This Autumn
1. Jeans + Leather Trench + Sambas
Style Notes: This is the kind of effortlessly chic look I could only hope to aspire to re-create. The best part is, it’s made up of so many wardrobe staples that you can mix and match throughout the season to create a plethora of looks.
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& Other Stories
Crewneck T-Shirt
One of my favourite go-to t-shirts.
COS
Column Jeans – Straight
I’m such a fan of COS jeans.
Arket
Belted Leather Coat
You’ll never regret owning a black leather trench.
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Samba Og Leather and Suede Sneakers
The Samba’s popularity is unrivalled.
DeMellier
The Midi New York Bag
I love how Madsen contrasts the black leather trench with the soft brown tote.
2. Double Denim + Colourful Trainers
Style Notes: This outfit is a brilliant way to inject a little colour into autumn dressing without going full maximalist. Double denim is a look that will never go out of style, and I love how Hamelijnck breaks up the blue with her vibrant green trainers.
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Reformation
Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans
ANINE BING
Rory Denim Jacket
Jigsaw
Compact Wool Cashmere Blend Jumper | Navy
I love how Amaka keeps to the blue colour story with her clothes—it makes the whole look seem more considered.
COS
Chunky Mariner-Chain Necklace
A chunky chain is a brilliant finishing touch.
ASICS
Skyhand Og Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers
Reformation
Small Silvana Bucket Bag
For an extra injection of colour, follow Amaka’s lead and opt for the very on-trend burgundy bag.
3. Striped Top + Tailored Trousers + Trench + Running Shoes
Style Notes: Proving that trainers can be a part of a more polished ensemble, Nnenna’s look is a brilliant example of how to wear trainers for a more professional scenario. The chunky running shoe silhouette is a great way to make these tailored styles feel more contemporary.
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Nobody’s Child
Striped Easy Fit Crew Neck T-Shirt
A Breton stripe is so classic.
Our whole team is obsessed with these trousers.
A black leather belt is the easiest way to make an outfit look more pulled together.
& Other Stories
New Balance 610 Sneakers
Jigsaw
Nelson Cotton Trench Coat
The ultimate autumn coat.
4. Shearling Jacket + Black Jeans + Converse
Style Notes: For those autumn days when all you want is an outfit that is cosy and easy, an all-black look topped up with a warm shearling jacket is an unbeatably good idea. The perfect shoe for this look? The classic Converse, of course.
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& Other Stories
Square-Neck Knit Top
This neckline is so good.
& Other Stories
Wide Long Jeans
I’ll always love a wide-leg jean.
Whistles
Faux Fur Aviator
CONVERSE
Chuck Taylor All Star 70 Canvas High-Top Sneakers
5. Oversized Shirt + Tailored Trousers + Beige Trainers
Style Notes: As much as I’m a fan of an all-black ensemble, I’ve noticed that its the influencers who play with different neutrals and warm tones who really look like autumn dressing pros. I love the understated simplicity of Anouk’s outfit, and the way the tonal trainers hit the perfect note of sophisticated and relaxed.
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THE FRANKIE SHOP
Piper Pleated Crepe Wide-Leg Pants
The Frankie Shop is a great go-to for tailored pieces.
With Nothing Underneath
The Classic: Fine Brushed, Grey
A beautifully warm grey tone.
Whistles
Hai Betty Necklace
Pearls continue to be a top jewellery trend—and I’m not complaining.
LOEWE
Flow Runner Leather-Trimmed Shell and Suede Sneakers
These Loewe trainers are at the top of my designer shoe wish list.
MANGO
Shopper Bag With Buckle
An ultra-versatile leather tote.
6. Jeans + Work Jacket + Bandana + Running Trainers
Style Notes: While I love the Scandi minimalist aesthetic, I’m equally obsessed with their mastery of layering, and how they use classic pieces to create more playful, unique ensembles. Emili’s outfit is a perfect example, balancing simple jeans, trainers and knitwear with nostalgic pieces like a gingham shirt and bandana.
Shop the look:
H&M
Oversized Cotton Shirt
Reformation
Sienna Oversized Cotton V Neck Sweater
Such a cool, slouchy fit.
AGOLDE
Clara Baggy Wide-Leg Organic Jeans
GUCCI
Gg Marmont Leather Belt
ASICS
Gt-2160 Faux Leather-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers
ASICS is the trainer brand to watch.
Dua Lipa is one of my influencers backing this jacket’s comeback this season.
Chan Luu
Embroidered Daisy Bandana
7. Mini Skirt + Blazer + Sambas
Style Notes: It’s not all about jeans and trousers—Scandi girls are big fans of mini skirts, and these high hemlines are made to be paired with trainers. Add an oversized blazer and some sleek sunglasses, and you’re set.
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This fitted silhouette is a great option for layering under an oversized blazer.
Everlane
The Dream Mini Skirt
& Other Stories
Oversized Blazer
MANGO
Oversize Knit Sweater
Follow Mary’s example and wear tied across your shoulders.
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Samba Og Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
I’m dreaming of getting this Samba colourway.
CELINE EYEWEAR
Monochroms Cat-Eye Acetate Sunglasses
Wear at every opportunity.