Dresses and Trainers: An Expert Guide to Fashion's Favourite Formula

For me, wearing a pair of trainers with a knockout dress is the ultimate outfit. Here's why: You get to look smart in a frock, but not too OTT, thanks to the addition of the more casual sneakers. I was first introduced to this look around 2006, thanks to Lily Allen doing the ball gown and Nike Air thing. While it wasn't considered "high fashion" then (Lily was always ahead of the curve), thanks to trainers becoming a bona fide street style favourite, this outfit is one of the chicest around. But, if you're still not sure how to do it, then allow me to help. I've hunted down some of my favourite dress-and-sneakers combos to help show you just what I'm talking about. You can even shop the looks too. Keep scrolling for seven outfits that will make you want to ditch your heels-and-frock ensembles for good.

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Style Notes: It might be mid-winter but that shouldn't stop you from wearing your favourite summer dress. Instead of bare legs, opt for tights, and throw on a great winter coat. Then, when the warmer weather hits, you'll be ready. 

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Style Notes: Rejina Pyo, as seen on fashion editor Veronika Heilbrunner here, is one of our favourite designers right now. Opt for one of her pink dresses and balance out the bold hue with another vibrant colour: yellow.

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Style Notes: If you didn't already know, polka dots are one of the most popular prints around right now. Whether it's black dots on white, or vice versa, wear it with your favourite pair of box-fresh "ugly" dad sneakers. 

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Style Notes: Really taking inspo from Lily's original 2006 outfit, tulle dresses look incredible with sneakers. This is ideal if you don't want to appear to princess-y. Toughen it up further with a leather jacket. 

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Style Notes: Floral dresses have been one of our favourite pieces from 2017, and we know that's going to continue into 2018. Add grey trainers for a sophisticated take on this outfit. 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Definitely one to store for the warmer months–a striped dress gives off nautical vibes and should only be paired with simple white sneakers. 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: A deep green dress is so perfect for the winter. If you're going for a satin frock, then be sure to add your most runner type of trainer to detract from how posh your frock is. 

Next up, the biggest S/S 18 fashion trends you need to know about. 

Elinor Block