Are White Trainers in the Workplace-a Step too Far?

First published Autumn 2019

En Vogue

Brilliant white trainers were once perceived as a wardrobe staple for young people often disparaged as “chavs.” This season however, white trainers can be seen on the catwalks of Milan and on the feet of A-list actresses, models and even Duchesses.

Donning white trainers for work is now increasingly acceptable and en vogue. However some fashionistas are less than enthused by the trend. This raises the question; is a lady who sports white trainers in her workplace, simply taking things -a step too far?

Royal Seal of Approval

The white trainer trend was given the Royal seal of approval when Kate Middleton wore her trusted Superga’s pristine white plimsols on duty at the Kings Cup Regatta. The Duchess of Cambridge is renowned for dressing exactly on point and sparking major global fashion trends.

Also renowned for her impeccable style, is Mrs Victoria Beckham. The former Posh Spice has often been snapped working at her exclusive London store, wearing white trainers to complement her immaculate designer ensembles.

Hitting the High Street

The trend has inevitably filtered onto the high-street and increasing numbers of women are daring to sport white trainers in a variety of workplaces and social settings. The newfound popularity of this footwear among women is reflected in retail figures. High end store, John Lewis, reports a significant increase in demand for white trainers. Sales of their own brand have rocketed by 500% in the past year alone.

Many of these white trainers are likely being purchased to be worn in an assortment of workplaces. Philanthropist Melinda Gates has praised women in the UK for showing “strength” in wearing white trainers in the workplace. Gates berates herself for lacking the confidence to follow the fashion.

Fashion Faux Pas?

Gates’s reservations are seemingly shared by many women who are reticent to follow the craze. This trepidation is understandable. The harshest critics insist that despite the influence of the catwalks, white trainers are not appropriate for all work settings or events.

Emma Thompson, for instance, faced harsh criticism for wearing white trainers to Buckingham Palace to receive her Damehood from the Duke of Cambridge in November 2018. Despite the fact that the sneakers were by Stella McCartney, Thompson was accused of a major fashion faux pas.

Frowned Upon 

When it comes to white trainers and the workplace, the etiquette can be something of a minefield. There are some places where this current fashion trend is now acceptable within the company dress code. In other work environments, such shoes may be somewhat frowned upon. The harshest critics have suggested that selecting white trainers to wear in the workplace, demonstrates a lack of commitment and indicates a failure to appreciate the gravity of one’s professional role.

Footnote

So, before deciding on your footwear it is imperative to consider your company’s protocol and dress code. After all, when it comes to selecting shoes appropriate for your workplace, the last thing you want to do- is put your foot in it.