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SHOE KNEW

I’m a fashion expert and these 5 styles of trainers make you look frumpy

TRAINERS are no longer just for exercise, the style rules have changed. 

Originating from the plimsoll that dated back to the 1800’s and was named after the plimsoll line on a ship's hull, the sneaker has come a long way since. 

Are your trainers making you look old fashioned?
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Are your trainers making you look old fashioned?Credit: Getty

Long associated with fitness, trainers were deemed unacceptable to wear with everyday clothes and never workwear.
But these days we wear them for pretty much everything - and our feet are thankful. 

Singer Billie Eilish even wore a pair on the Oscars red carpet in 2020. 

Like all fashion items they have trends that peak and fall and some trainer styles are now outdated and could be making you look frumpy.
Here, Fabulous’ Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend, reveals which ones you should avoid. 

FLATFORMS 

Flatform trainers are making you look frumpy.
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Flatform trainers are making you look frumpy.Credit: Getty

Flatform trainers are all well and good for giving you an extra inch in height but the lifting is now just a bit naff. 

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Plus, the flat sole of the shoe means there is no support for the natural arch in your foot, which can cause pain for your joints, similar to ballet pumps.

LACE-LESS 

They may be practical but laces-less trainers after old news.
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They may be practical but laces-less trainers after old news.Credit: Adidas

Trainers without shoelaces that come with an elasticated band over the top of the foot are good when you’re in a rush and don’t have time to faff around with laces, however they’ve become old hat. 

The look can become frumpier still when the elastic has velcro too. 

EMBELLISHED 

Embellished trainers are out of fashion.
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Embellished trainers are out of fashion.Credit: Asos

Sneakers covered in rhinestones were the novelty shoe of the noughties but they have well and truly had their day - even Gen Z aren’t bringing them back.
They’ve become so out of style that Katie Price is flogging hers for £120 on resale app Depop.

PLIMSOLLS 

Plimsolls are for P.E, not for fashion.
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Plimsolls are for P.E, not for fashion.Credit: Crew clothing

The humble plimsoll brings back memories for many of shuffling around a cold sports hall at school whilst waiting to throw a bean bag, they do not conjure up images of fashion-forward style icons.
Similar to the flatform trainer, they’re flat sole isn’t good for your feet and you’d be better off in a pair of stilettos. 

SOCK TRAINERS

Kylie Jenner wears Balenciaga's sock trainers in 2017.
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Kylie Jenner wears Balenciaga's sock trainers in 2017.Credit: INSTAGRAM

Designer Balenciaga brought out their sock trainer in 2017 and has been worn by A-listers like Kylie Jenner and Rihanna - and had brands like Primark doing multiple dupes. 

But fast forward to today and the sock trainer is out, no one is wearing them anymore.
If you’re after a celeb approved shoe then try the current cult style, an Adidas Samba. 

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