Truthfully, when I first saw these images of Emily Ratajkowski wearing laceless trainers, they brought back vivd memories of a very similar water-friendly style I used to be forced into as a kid at the beach. Having resented this laceless silhouette ever since, it seems almost miraculous that Ratajkowski has just made a pair seem incredibly cool.
Styling a pair of slip-on, laceless trainers from the Brain Dead x Oakley Factory collaboration in an imitation python print (£155), Ratajkowski donned her most controversial shoe yet. Not one to shy way from a shoe with a built-in talking point, I’ve spotted the model style jelly flats, ballet trainers and mesh shoes on multiple occasions, but never a pair quite like this. Cut to the height and size of a conventional trainer, these shoes are designed without laces, and instead are lined with a lycra fabric that closely hugs the foot, keeping them in place.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
Having stepped out in the shoes on multiple occasions over the past few weeks, it’s clear that they’re a new mainstay in her wardrobe. Styling them last week with a tailored miniskirt, Ratajkowski proved the surprising versatility of the the “ugly” trainer trend. Wearing them again with baggy, khaki trousers and a fitted tank, Ratajkowski doubled down on the surprising trend.
Not a conventionally attractive shoe, this emerging trainer trend was swept in by the evolving “ugly” shoes trend that has seen Maison Margiela’s Tabi shoes become a fashion favourite, as well jelly shoes come back into the fore.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Sweeping through the wardrobes of celebrities this season, Ratajkowski isn’t the only person I’ve spotted styling the trend as of late. Wearing a pair of controversial ballet trainers with a white ensemble, model Iris Law has taken the laceless trainers out for a stroll as well.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Infused with a gorpcore energy, these new trainers are set apart from the slip on trainers of past seasons—such as Van’s classic slip on sneakers, via the thick, gripped soles, and sporty silhouettes.
Set to rival traditional trainers in coming season, read on to get ahead of the game and shop the laceless trainer trend below.
SHOP EMILY’S SHOES HERE:
Brain Dead X Oakley Factory
Team Python Flesh
This also comes in nine other styles.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE OTHER BEST SLIP-ON TRAINERS HERE:
Adidas
Taekwondo Striped Leather Sneakers
This also comes in white.
These hybrid ballet flat trainers are set to be a major trend this season.
Mango
Canvas Leather Trainers
Trust me—these will sellout this season.
Style with baggy jeans or wear with a tailored miniskirt.
Salomon’s trainers are a fashion persons favourites.
Our Legacy Gabe Sneakers
Trainers
These chunky trainers guarantee lasting comfort.
NIKE
Acg Rufus Leather-Trimmed Suede Slip-On Sneakers
These also come in a light beige shade.
