Can You Wear Leather Trainers to Work? A Guide to Office Dress Codes

Not every man wants to wear formal shoes to work every day.

For some, a pair of Derbies or Oxfords is part of the job. For others, the office is much more relaxed. Chinos, shirts, knitwear and loafers are common, and trainers aren't unusual either.

That is where leather trainers come in.

A plain leather pair can look sharper than a sports trainer. It also feels easier to wear all day. Still, not every trainer fits the same purpose. One kind goes well with office clothes. Another kind looks like it belongs in the gym. Silver Street London has a collection of different shoes that pair well whether you are going to the office or a party.

So, can you wear leather trainers for work? In the right workplace, yes.

First, Look at Your Office

There is no universal dress code for all companies within the UK.

The place where you go to see your clients may require simple business shoes.  At design or creative agencies, you can wear sneakers every day without problems.  Another team may like business casual style, which allows you to look smart yet gives you some extra space.

If you are unsure about the dress code, pay attention to other people’s clothes.

What do the other guys wear? Is it the suits along with the appropriate footwear, or have the chinos and sneakers made their way into the work attire?

That is most likely the best answer.

Think about the day you are meant to have. Most workdays, you could use your smart sneakers right at your desk. If you have a meeting with a client, put on something more formal.

What Makes A Leather Trainer For Work The Right Choice?

A neat leather top helps. The sole should not be too thick. Go for low branding. A smaller running shoe type usually fits better than a bulky one.

Black is also a simple choice. It matches navy and grey, and it works with darker pants too. The full outfit stays put together and does not feel overly casual.

The Trentham Leather Smart Casual Trainers is a solid example. It gives off a relaxed sneaker vibe, but it does not feel like a sports shoe.

If you are looking for a shoe that falls somewhere in between an ordinary sneaker and regular office shoes, then the Spinney Leather Smart Casual Trainer can work for you.

These are the sorts of trainers for men that can work when your wardrobe is already fairly smart.

Can You Wear Them With Chinos?

Chinos are probably the easiest trousers to wear with leather trainers.

Try navy chinos with black or white trainers and a plain shirt. Or go for beige chinos with a tan pair and a lightweight jumper. You don't need to dress it up too much.

The Holden Leather Cup Sole Trainer in tan is the kind of shoe that works well with this sort of outfit. Tan footwear with navy chinos is a particularly easy combination, and it can take you from the office to a pub or restaurant afterwards without needing a change.

That's one of the nice things about men's smart casual trainers. They don't have to be kept solely for work.

What About Tailored Trousers?

This combination can look even better than you might expect. Tailored trousers make the outfit smart. The trainers make it less formal.

Any simple trainers in white or black, or any dark leather shoes, will match well with navy, grey, or charcoal trousers. Then, just add a shirt or a sweater, and you are ready to go in style.

This will work very well for offices where wearing a complete suit seems too much.

The trainers should be clean and fairly understated. A pair with a huge sole or lots of sporty detailing will usually work against the rest of the outfit.

Can You Wear White Trainers to Work?

Yes, if your office allows trainers.

White leather has a very clean look when it's looked after. The problem is keeping it that way. Anyone who commutes in the UK knows what happens to white footwear after a few rainy journeys. Pavements, train platforms and general everyday wear can leave their mark.

The Harold Smart Casual Trainers in white can work well with chinos and lighter tailored trousers. Just give them a clean when they need it.

If you don't want to spend time looking after white trainers, black or darker leather is an easier everyday option.

Are Leather Trainers Comfortable for a Full Day?

This is one of the main reasons men choose them.

A day at work can involve a surprising amount of walking. You move out in the morning, then you go for lunch, and after that you are back in meetings. Later, you head home.

Some days you may feel fine in proper shoes as well. Still, a lot of men choose trainers instead.

If you plan to stand for a long time, check the fit before you go. Choose shoes that give your toes a bit of space. Make sure your heel does not slide. You also want no tight squeeze on your foot.

A shoe that feels uncomfortable in the shop isn't going to become better after eight hours.

Leather Trainers or Proper Office Shoes?

Both have their place.

If you work somewhere formal, keep your traditional shoes. If your work environment is laid-back, there is no reason why you should not have a pair of leather sneakers.

In fact, having both would be helpful. Sneakers on regular days, and formal shoes during meetings.

When Should You Avoid Trainers?

There are some situations where a formal shoe is simply the better choice.

An interview is one. A formal client meeting is another. Weddings, important presentations and business events may also call for something more traditional.

And check your company's dress code. If trainers aren't allowed, don't try to find a way around it with a “smart” pair. The rule is the rule.

There is also a difference between leather trainers and sports footwear. Your running shoes may be comfortable, but that doesn't make them suitable office trainers.

How We See Smart Trainers at Silver Street London

At Silver Street London, we think smart-casual footwear should be easy to live with. You shouldn't have to completely change your wardrobe just because you're wearing trainers.

If the leather shoes are clean, they may be worn with chinos for the everyday office. They may look a bit more stylish with the fitted trousers. At weekends, they may be worn with jeans.

That's why we include different styles in our trainer collection rather than sticking to one look.

If you prefer black, the Ambrose or Spinney styles offer a simple starting point. The Holden would be great for you to get that warm and cosy look, whereas the Harold will give you a white choice.

The key step is choosing a match that fits what you already wear.

Can Men Wear Leather Trainers For Work?

If the office is okay with that.

Pick a plain leather pair. Skip anything that feels too sporty. Then match it with clothes that are already sharp.

Chinos work well. Tapered pants will also look great. In case the atmosphere is relaxed, jeans would be an appropriate choice. For any occasion where dressing up is necessary, avoid wearing sneakers. Wear Derbies or Oxfords rather.

In case of going out to do errands, it is acceptable to wear leather trainers for work.

FAQs

1. Are leather trainers appropriate for an office?

Leather sneakers would work well in cases where the work environment is either business casual or casual. In formal environments, one would require conventional shoes.

2. What should you wear with smart trainers?

Some of the items that can be paired quite easily include chinos or tailored trousers. In addition, one can add a shirt, polo or simple sweater.

3. Are leather trainers smart casual?

A stylish leather sneaker can match well with the smart-casual outfit.

4. Can you wear white leather trainers for work?

Yes, if sneakers are allowed at work. One needs to keep them neat and wear them with decently smart clothes.

5. Can leather trainers replace formal shoes?

They cannot totally replace the former. One needs to stick with formal shoes for interviews and other formal occasions.