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Gola’s Top 5 Sustainable Trainer Styles

In a world where we’re all striving to be more mindful consumers to protect our planet, there’s never been a better time to invest in more sustainable footwear styles. 

At Gola, we strive to make more planet-conscious decisions, so we’ve curated a collection of our popular trainers in both men’s and women’s styles that use recycled materials. 

This blog reveals our five favourite sustainable trainer styles because we believe being planet-conscious shouldn’t impact style! Read on to discover our favourites from the range, how to style them and most importantly, what makes them a more sustainable choice!

Table of contents: 

Grandslam ‘88

Raven 

Slam Trident

Chicago 

Daytona Chute

Are old trainers recyclable?

Grandslam ‘88

Grandslam '88 trainers

Never was a trainer so effortlessly chic as the Grandslam ’88. This stunning shoe is inspired by Gola’s heritage lines and is the perfect addition to your trainer collection.

Featuring crisp lines, this classic court white-on-white trainer features a stylish colour pop to complement an otherwise neutral shoe. The Grandslam ’88 takes on eye-catching  colour pops , allowing for an abundance of stylish dressing options.

True to authentic Gola style, the Grandslam ’88 is available in men’s and women’s sizes. 

For men, these trainers won’t look out of place when paired with chinos for the office, cargo pants on off-duty days or shorts if you want to step into summer in Wimbledon whites, reinventing last year’s ’tennis core’ trend.

For women, the Grandslam ’88 offers several stylish options, so why not pair yours with a swing dress or style them with oversized baggy boyfriend jeans?

Sustainably stylish, with a recycled PU upper, so you can step out in style knowing that you’ve made a planet-conscious choice that transcends trends. 

Raven 

Raven trainers

Embrace a kaleidoscope of colour with Raven, one of our popular women’s trainer styles. Crafted from 100% recycled nylon, the Raven is a trainer with sustainability at its heart.

Our Raven trainer is a stunning choice for any woman who isn’t afraid of colour or statement style. Whatever your colour preference, you’ll find options to suit it in this extensive collection, including pastel shades perfect for spring, autumnal-inspired rich, deep colours and bright colour pops perfect for summer dressing. 

The variety of colours in each trainer lends to many stylish looks, whether you opt for a neutral-coloured outfit and let your trainers stand out or choose one of the trainers’ many shades and build your outfit to complement it.

Either way, these trainers would look good paired with jeans or joggers on more relaxed days.

Slam Trident 

Slam Trident high-top trainers

If you love ’80s-inspired style, our Slam Trident  women’s high-tops are the perfect sustainable pick. Inspired by our ever-popular Grandslam line, our Slam Trident high-tops offer a feminine silhouette for those who love this vintage-inspired style.

The  Slam Trident  high-top features all of the signature styling you’d expect from this classic Gola trainer, but with parts of its upper made from recycled materials to create a more eco-friendly shoe. 

A super lightweight sole and classic branding make this trainer the perfect go-to for this season’s looks. 

Although Slam Trident high-tops pair perfectly with leggings, jeans and short shorts, we love them styled with a maxi split-denim skirt and an oversized shirt for a chic, contemporary look. 

Chicago 

Chicago trainers

A new addition to the men’s Gola collection, the Chicago jogger is the epitome of ’80s track trainer style. This sustainable men’s trainer features a recycled nylon and suede upper and comes in various muted tones, which is ideal for matching many stylish looks.

A heritage style, this lace-up jogger would be perfectly placed when styled with ’80s-inspired track pants for a contemporary take on a retro-inspired look. Or, smarten up your look by pairing them with beige trousers with rolled-up cuffs and an oversized sweatshirt. 

Whatever your style preference, from cargo pants to wide-legged jeans, the Chicago trainer is the ideal retro-inspired sustainable style that will provide many versatile dressing options.

Daytona Chute

Daytona Chute Trainers

One of our most popular men’s Gola Classic styles, the Daytona Chute, has now been sustainably reimagined because being a conscious consumer shouldn’t compromise style!

This new version of the Daytona features recycled materials in its parachute nylon upper. Undeniably retro-inspired in its design, this trainer has been lovingly reimagined from Gola’s back catalogues for a modern take on a popular classic design.

Whether you style yours with skinny cuffed joggers or white crew sports socks and shorts, the Daytona Chute is the sporty, off-duty addition you’ve been searching for. Or, to add a casual alternative twist to a classic look, why not pair yours with tapered trousers and a shirt?

For retro trainer lovers everywhere, the Daytona Chute comes in various colourways and is finished with classic Gola branding and signature detailing as a true mark of style.

Whichever style you opt for, you’ll easily recognise our recyclable materials trainer range by looking for the green recycled icon displayed next to each pair. So it’s never been easier to find and invest in a sustainable style. The hardest part will be choosing your favourite pair!

Are old trainers recyclable? 

33 billion pairs of shoes end up in landfills every year in the UK alone, and with the increasing popularity of the trainer market, this number is set to continue rising unless we take action.

The good news is that the Gola + JogOn partnership means that you’ll never have to send any of your Gola trainers to landfill again. Your unwanted trainers could give someone the opportunity for an income and you’ll protect the environment by not sending your shoes to landfills to rot for over a thousand years.

JogOn Founder and CEO Tony Piedade pledges to give usable trainers a second chance by putting them to good causes.

To learn how to recycle your unwanted Gola trainers, why not read our Gola + JogOn guide? 

Shop for trainers containing recycled materials at Gola today!

Now you know our favourite sustainable styles, why not explore our collection of men’s and women’s trainers containing recycled materials at Gola today? From running styles to heritage classics, you’ll find an extensive selection of planet-friendly styles when you browse the collection! Or, find out more about sustainability at Gola by heading to our Sustainability at Gola page.

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Art Born in Britian Fashion General Shoes Styling Tips and Trends Trends

Elan spotted in SNOW XUE GAO F/W24 NYFW Collection- Big Apple Blend: Plaid Perfection

Gola’s heritage sneaker Elan has been spotted in the Snow XUE GAO Fall/Winter 2024 Collection; the new range infuses the vibrant energy of New York City and seamlessly blends classic motifs with avant-garde silhouettes making it a great pairing to our vibrant and eye-catching retro style Elan.

Gola Classics Women’s Elan Trainers
Santorini/Black/Fuchsia

When it comes to heritage sports Gola has a tale to tell and Elan’s roots as a multi-purpose training shoe can authentically make this claim. An old school gum sole, in just the right vintage tone, is reminiscent of days in the school gym, whilst striking colour combinations such as this santorini, black and fuchsia, give a thoroughly modern looking women’s trainer. Elan is certainly a trainer to opt for if you want to make a statement this season.

Gola Classics Women’s Elan Trainers
Evergreen/Black/Fuchsia

Elan in our best selling colourway evergreen has been spotted at the new Snow XUE GAO F/W24 show at NYFW. This saturated colour combination of evergreen, black and fuchsia, gives a thoroughly chic look to this women’s trainer. You’re not mistaken if you can see the resemblance to Gola’s flagship Harrier style, Elan is almost a twin but has an additional heel tab panel to give an extra colour pop. Selling out as quickly as we get them in, this is the hottest women’s Gola trainer of the season.

Shop Elan now at Gola.co.uk

Art Styling Tips and Trends

Top 4 Tips On How To Wear White Trainers For Women

Gola Classics women's Eclipse Trident Trainers

White trainers are the perfect addition and building block for any woman’s capsule wardrobe. 

Incredibly wearable and versatile, there isn’t an outfit you can’t style a pair of classic white trainers with, whatever the season or event. However, if you’re new to wearing white trainers, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start when pairing them with an outfit.

In this guide, we’re offering our top tips on how to style yours, from how to wear them differently across the seasons to the minor details that can’t be overlooked, such as the best socks to wear them with.

Read on to discover how to wear white trainers for women and get ready to step out in style with Gola!

Table of contents: 

How to style white trainers for women

  1. How to style white trainers with dresses and skirts
  2. How to style white trainers with shorts for summer
  3. How to style white trainers with jeans
  4. How to style white trainers with leggings

Do you have to wear white socks with white trainers?

How to style white trainers for women

White trainers for women are such a popular choice because they are classic and timeless. A shoe staple transcending trends, they are perfectly appropriate for any age group and can be styled in various ways with many outfits. 

If you’re looking to invest in a single pair of trainers to complement your wardrobe, you may want to think about which style of trainer would be the most practical for you before you even think about styling them with your outfits. For example, if you’re always on the go, a pair of white leather trainers may be the most suitable as they’re easy to keep clean. 

To make the best choice, start by assessing your wardrobe to see whether a high-top or a traditional low-cut sneaker would be the best choice for your personal style, whether you’d prefer a patterned or plain look and which material or finish will work most practically in your capsule wardrobe.

Then, you can start styling your looks for the season ahead, using your white trainers as a central hero piece.

1 How to style white trainers with dresses and skirts 

Trainers are an increasingly popular pairing to dresses and skirts and can help to make a look that may otherwise be formal take on a much more casual feel. 

A light day dress in summer looks perfect when paired with white trainers and other accessories, such as a denim jacket, another essential summer wardrobe staple. Finish with an oversized shoulder bag and some jewellery for the ideal outfit for hitting the shops or meeting friends for coffee. Our Gola Classics Women’s Grandslam Leather Trainers style perfectly with summer dresses adding a cool edge to your completed ensemble. 

women's Grandslam white leather trainers

However, it’s not only summer that allows you to pair your white trainers with dresses and skirts. When the weather starts to change, a longer-length dress or skirt can look just as chic. Simply swap out the denim jacket for a leather one and choose a stylish long-sleeved T-shirt or cosy knit to pair with your skirt or layer over your dress to complete the look. A cosy scarf helps you to add that perfect finishing touch. 

Or, if you want to wear a mini or midi-length skirt or dress in the colder months, simply layer a long coat or cardigan over your outfit. 

2 How to style white trainers with shorts for summer

If there were ever a shoe built for summer styling, it would be white trainers. Not only do they complement a whole host of dress and skirt lengths, but they also look exceptional when styled with shorts. 

Shorts and white trainers are an essential pairing, whether you’re heading abroad or simply planning to enjoy the sun at home .

If you prefer plain shorts such as a classic blue denim pair or a tailored style, choose a patterned T-shirt to add another level to your look. Or, if you prefer timeless style, a Breton T-shirt can look particularly chic. 

Complete the look with some classic Gola Strap Trainers in white. You could even base your outfit colours around the wingflash colour or pattern featured on your trainer. 

Vegan Gola Classics Womens Coaster Strap

Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Coaster Strap

3 How to style white trainers with jeans

Irrespective of the season, white trainers and jeans are a match made in heaven. 

White trainers go with any shade of denim, so whether you prefer skinny black jeans or flared ripped blue denim, you’re guaranteed style points with this look. 

If you work in a modern office, a pair of fitted jeans styled with a classic button-down shirt can look smart without appearing overly formal. Layering an oversized knit jumper over your shirt in the cooler months will offer added style points. Our Gola Classics Women’s Tennis Mark Cox Trainers are the classic pick we’d recommend to nail this look. Suit pants look just as effective styled in this way for the days when you want a break from your jeans. 

Similarly, a T-shirt paired with skinny jeans and white trainers provides a perfectly chic summer outfit, which you can layer a blazer over once that autumn breeze takes hold. 

If you’re trying on the oversized or flared jeans trend, white trainers can be a great choice and prevent you from falling and tripping like you could if you pair the look with heels or boots. If you’re small in height, choose a trainer with extra height to its sole to balance out the width of the look, such as our Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Coaster Peak High Trainers and reserve them exclusively for your flared-jean days. 

Vegan Gola Classics Womens Coaster Peak High Trainers

Although white trainers work with any jeans type, consider the length of your jeans against the ankle height of your trainers to ensure a winning look. For example, if you’re wearing cuffed boyfriend jeans, high-tops work well, whereas low-tops could create the illusion of a shortened figure if too much of the ankle can be seen. Denim jean shorts, however, pair with all trainer types and heights. 

4 How to wear trainers with leather-look leggings

Both leather and faux-leather leggings are popular choices for day dressing and evenings out, and luckily, white trainers can look just as stylish when paired with them as they do anything else in your wardrobe. 

Taking an otherwise formal look and making it more wearable and casual when paired with your white trainers, your leather-look leggings will look as stylish at work as when browsing the shops with friends. 

For occasions that require it, opt for a more formal top if you’re swapping out heels for white trainers. However, for stylish off-duty days, pair your leggings with a fitted T-shirt and an oversized cardigan or button-down to add a casual feel to your look. Why not choose our Gola Classics Women’s Eclipse Trident Trainers for a fashion-forward finish?

Gola Classics women's Eclipse Trident Trainers

Do you have to wear white socks with white trainers?

So, now you know how to style your most popular wardrobe pieces with your white trainers; it’s important to get your socks right so as not to take attention away from your look. And while you might think that white socks are the best pairing to your new favourite shoes, this isn’t necessary. 

Irrespective of trainer style, most pair three main types of socks with their trainers. These are no show socks, perfect for low tops and plimsolls when you want to give the illusion of no socks at all, ankle socks that finish just about the ankle, and regular crew socks that finish part way up the calf. 

The style of socks and the colour you choose ultimately depends on personal preference. For example, if you want to make a statement with your socks, ankle or crew socks in bright or patterned designs might be the best choice for you, whereas no-show socks or ankle socks in classic colours are more suitable if you’re going for a smart or classic look.

White crew socks can look great with sportier styles or running trainers, especially when paired with athleisure and loungewear looks.

Explore our women’s white trainers at Gola

Now you know what to wear with white trainers, ladies; it’s time to shop for the perfect pair to fit your personal style! 

Whether you prefer heritage styles to curate a classic aesthetic or trainers that are bang on trend, we offer various styles at Gola. Shop the collection today, including our stylish vegan options.

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A Men’s Style Guide On How To Wear White Trainers

vegan Gola Classics men's Varsity trainers

White trainers are the perfect choice if there’s only room for one pair of trainers in your wardrobe. Classic and versatile, they provide many dressing options and can add a sophisticated, sharp finish and an approachable edge to even the most formal looks.

Whilst black and brown trainers are often seen as a more formal choice, and patterned designs are a loud focal point that helps to show off your personality, white trainers are timeless and wearable, whatever the occasion! But what clothes go with white shoes?

In this guide, we’re offering our top tips on wearing white trainers for men, so when you invest in a pair, you’ll have an abundance of go-to dressing options. We’ve even considered what colour socks to wear with white trainers to ensure that even the smallest details don’t affect your desired aesthetic.

Table of contents: 

What to wear with white trainers

  1. Chinos
  2. Shorts
  3. A Suit
  4. Jeans
  5. Sportswear

What colour socks go with white trainers

What to wear with white trainers

Have you ever wondered what to wear with white trainers? Today, men’s fashion editorials are filled with stylish outfits that are rounded off with a classic pair of white trainers; the good news is, they pretty much go with anything. 

Whether you’re looking to add a casual finish to a formal suit or want some trainers to pair with your chinos for the office, white trainers are an ideal option. The key to nailing the look is to choose a minimalist style and to keep your trainers immaculately clean, wear after wear. 

Here are our top five ways to style your white trainers:

1 Chinos 

Chinos are a popular style piece in most modern men’s wardrobes. They’re also great for off-duty days and office wear, when dress trousers may seem too formal.

When pairing chinos with white trainers, the styling possibilities are endless. For the best looks, choose chinos that naturally taper towards the ankle and come in neutral shades such as navy, black or grey. Your trainers should be minimalist, so choose a style like our Gola Classic Men’s Grandslam Leather Trainers for a chic, crisp finish.

Gola Classics Men's Grandslam Leather Trainers

If you want a smart, modern look for the office, style your chinos and white trainers with a button-down shirt and a light sweatshirt, or for a smart off-duty look, a tailored polo shirt can be just as stylish. 

Or, opt for a long or short sleeve T-shirt in a plain colour, put together with your chinos and your white trainers and complete the look with a stylish accessory, such as a wristwatch, to add some sophistication to your otherwise smart casual look. 

2 Shorts

If you’re looking for a way to carry your style into the summer season, it’s fine to pair your white trainers with shorts. 

Keep it simple by choosing neutral shorts and pairing them with a basic T-shirt in a classic shade or a light-knit polo to add a smarter finish to your outfit. 

For best results, opt for chino-style shorts that sit just above the knee, and pair them with white canvas trainers, such as our Vegan Gola Classics Men’s Comet Plimsoll Trainers and no-show socks. 

Want to add a jacket to your look? Choose a casual suede bomber or a relaxed, open button-down shirt for ultimate style points.

3 A suit 

A style once reserved for the most daring of dressers, pairing a suit with white trainers is becoming a more popular option for even the most sophisticated gentlemen. However, some style codes relating to fit and how you tie the look together need to be met for this look to work.

First, your suit of choice should be tailored to fit you flawlessly. Much like the chinos example, trousers slightly tapered towards the hem are a great style choice. Then when finishing the look, choose a casual T-shirt or Breton striped top to prevent your outfit from becoming too formal or stuffy. 

This style choice works best with a shirt in a neutral shade and when things are kept casual. A good quality fitted T-shirt or a stylish, lightweight wool jumper can provide a perfect finishing touch. 

vegan Gola Classics men's Varsity trainers

Our Vegan Gola Classics Men’s Varsity Trainers are just the ticket to pulling off this look. Pair with a navy suit to accentuate the trainer’s classic detailing. 

4 Jeans

Every man’s wardrobe usually contains an assortment of jeans in various fits and shades, and the good news is that white trainers go well with them all! Whether classic, distressed or ripped, curating many looks around this perfect pairing is easy. 

When choosing a matching top, be as classic or casual as you like. Basics such as hoodies or bomber jackets can look great, creating an essential off-duty outfit that wouldn’t look out of place in a coffee shop or at the football. Or, if you love skinny jeans, why not roll the hem to show a little ankle and finish your outfit with a fitted T-shirt in a single shade?

men's Harrier Elite trainers

Our Gola Made in England – 1905 Men’s Harrier Elite Trainers wouldn’t be out of place here. Cut from the finest leather to a classic silhouette, they’re a timeless design that pairs perfectly with various jean styles – just be mindful of colour transfer from your jeans to their off-white, buttery leather. 

5 Sportswear 

Athleisure, or the trend of wearing sports clothes for fashion, has become increasingly popular in recent years and is another great way to wear white trainers. Whether running errands or travelling, adding stylish white trainers to your outfit can transform your loungewear into a premium look.

To curate this style effectively, choose fitted joggers that taper downwards into a cuff or hem that wraps around the ankle. Go for looser layers on top, such as a relaxed polo shirt or a T-shirt in an oversized cut for balance. 

Gola Classics Men’s Hawk Leather Trainers offer heritage styling and evoke a vintage Varsity-style aesthetic, making them the perfect pairing to this laidback look.

Gola classics men's hawk trainers

What colour socks go with white trainers?

The sock colour that works best with your white trainers largely depends on your outfit, so it’s not always as simple as pairing white socks and shoes. Alongside the colour, you might also want to consider the length and style of socks you choose.

When choosing a colour, consider your outfit carefully. Do you want your socks to be a statement part of your outfit, or do you want them to blend seamlessly into the background? White trainers go with any colour, so in this case, the colour of your outfit will be the determining factor.

With a suit, unless your socks are loud on purpose, choose a neutral colour that pairs well with your suit trousers, such as grey or black with a grey suit, or navy with a navy. Whereas with shorts, unless you’re trying to make a statement, ankle or no-show socks are the best choice for keeping your outfit stylish and classic. Mid-calf socks are also ideal for sportier looks or layering under jeans. 

Classic black socks in a mid-calf length go with most outfits and allow your trainers to take centre stage without drawing attention away from them.

For a fun and playful twist, why not use colourful striped socks to bridge the gap between your white trainers and jeans for a statement finish?

Shop men’s white trainers at Gola for timeless dressing 

Now you know how to style white trainers seamlessly, why not shop for your perfect pair at Gola? From plimsolls to our Heritage styles, you’ll surely find your missing wardrobe piece when you shop the collection today, including vegan styles. 

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Why are white trainers so popular?

women's Grandslam white leather trainers

With their chic yet versatile style, white trainers are wardrobe staples – and we all have at least one pair of them in our shoedrobe.

This versatile footwear style is worn by millions of people worldwide, regardless of age, gender or demographic. It is timeless, reliable and regularly considered one of the best shoe styles on the market. So, what makes white trainers so popular? 

Here, we explore why white trainers are among the first footwear choices on people’s buy lists, including why white trainers are the perfect way to upgrade your outfits and how to style them to suit any occasion.

A pair of white trainers are modelled on their side, soles facing eachother. They feature thick white soles with dash detailing, and Gola's logo sits along the wingflash in a chic mustard colour, stylishly contrasting against the white trainer. The background that the trainers are set against is hot pink with dark green and teal detailing in the corners.

Table of Contents

  1. Why are white trainers so popular?
  2. Can white trainers be worn in any season?
  3. Do white trainers go with everything?
  4. Shop comfortable white trainers at Gola

Why are white trainers so popular?

White trainers are cool, chic and easy to style, making them a popular go-to footwear for men and women worldwide. 

One of the most prominent reasons people love white trainers is that they add instant style and a fresh aesthetic to any outfit. They offer a crisp, clean look and are considered a classic. 

A classic white Gola plimsoll high-top, pictured from the side. It has white fabric uppers and a thick sole, with off-white tones contrasting against the white laces. Gola's logo sits along the wingflash with black lettering, standing out stylishly.

Gola Classics Women’s Coaster High Trainers

Moreover, a huge selection of white trainer styles is always available, making it easy to choose a pair to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight canvas shoe, a slip-on style or smart leather trainers with a chunky sole, you’ll find simple yet stylish designs that are always in fashion and ideal for a capsule wardrobe. 

At Gola, we stock a fantastic selection of white trainers for men and women. So, whether you’re searching for the perfect white trainers to tie your outfits together or a comfortable pair for running errands, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect style in our collection. 

A men's varsity trainer, white with contrasting black detailing and wingflashes. Gola's logo is white and is contrasting against the black wingflash on which it sits.

Vegan Gola Classics Men’s Varsity Trainers

Can white trainers be worn in any season?

It is a common misconception that white trainers can only be worn during the warmer months, but you certainly can embrace the white trainer trend all year round. 

Whilst canvas trainers are more appropriate for spring/summer, as they keep your feet cooler, white leather trainers offer a more sturdy footwear option that is better suited to autumn/winter. They can be paired with your tights, leggings or jeans so that you can try plenty of outfit combinations. Try a layered look by wearing knitwear over your favourite T-shirts and tops for a cosy, practical look.

Do white trainers go with everything?

White trainers can pretty much go with anything! From simple block colours to boldly patterned fabrics, they can blend in or contrast with all colour palettes to create coordinated outfits that look put together. 

They can also be paired with smart and casual clothing, so you can wear them for various occasions. If you’re attending an event and want to stay comfortable, your white trainers can be dressed up with a floaty midi dress or skirt in bright colours or floral patterns to make your outfit pop. 

A women's grand slam chunky trainer by Gola. Its base is white, however it features off-white wingflashes and grey fabric detailing around the eyelaces and back of the shoe. The back upper, logo on the tongue and wingflash, and bottom sole is a contrasting light teal green. This shoe is recycled.

Gola Classics Women’s Grandslam ’88 Trainers

White trainers can also be dressed to create a more laid-back look, ideal for running errands or other daytime tasks. Style them with comfortable jeans or leggings with an oversized T-shirt or sweater for the ultimate casual look. You can also experiment with accessories to put your own twist on your daytime outfits. 

At Gola, we host a stunning selection of classic trainer styles, from those that contrast Gola’s heritage styling with contemporary fashion to popular vegan designs for every occasion. Many of our white trainers also feature coloured wingflashes or contrasting soles, perfect for adding a bright dash of colour to your outfits. 

Gola women's daytona trainer. It features a white background however various patchwork colours throughout, including peach fabric backs and fronts, which frame the mesh toe area. The wingflash is black, and Gola's logo contrasts in it with its peachy colouring. The shoe's sole is red, as it the detailing on the shoes back upper and logo on the tongue.

Gola Classics Women’s Daytona Trainers

Comfortable white trainers at Gola

A high-quality pair of white trainers will never go out of style if you wear them well. They are wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit the latest trends. If you don’t have a pair in your wardrobe, this is your sign to treat yourself to your next fashion staple.

You can also wear white trainers during any season, as their neutral tones will complement everything from muted shades such as grey and beige to bright, bold colours, including yellow, pink and green. This means you can experiment with colour without worrying whether your shoes match your outfit.

Many forgo wearing white shoes because they believe they will get dirty easily. However, if you clean your shoes regularly and care for them properly you can maintain that box fresh look. Using high-quality shoe care products suitable for the material of your trainers will allow you to provide them with long-lasting protection.

Browse our range of white trainers

White trainers are timeless, versatile and easy to style, so there’s no reason not to try them. Whether you pair them with denim, trousers or joggers, you can create plenty of on-trend looks.

Check out Gola’s full range of white trainers for men, women and kids and explore our most popular styles and colours. From casual sports trainers to smart fashion styles, our premium collection has options for every taste. 

Looking for more footwear styles to enhance your outfits? Discover our new in range and embrace the most popular trainer styles at Gola today. 

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How to wear high-top trainers

High-top trainers are one of the most popular trainer styles on the market. They are comfortable, versatile and can be worn all year round – all you need to do is adapt your outfit!

However, it is important to know how to style high-top trainers to get the most out of them.

Whether you’re searching for the latest style advice or unsure how to wear high-tops, we’re here to help. Follow our guide for everything you need to know about this popular footwear style, including how to wear high-top trainers with various outfits, lace them properly, and style them for any casual occasion. 

Two different styles of Gola high top trainers sit against a contrasting, bold pink and orange striped background. One of the trainers features rose-gold wingflashes, and the other has silver.

Table of contents

  1. How to wear high-tops
    1. How to lace high-tops
  2. What to wear with high-top trainers
    1. How to wear high-top trainers with jeans
    2. How to wear high-top trainers with shorts
  3. Can I wear high-top trainers with a dress?
  4. Shop high-top trainers at Gola

How to wear high-tops

With their full coverage shape and secure lace-up fastening, high-top trainers not only look on-trend, but they can offer support around the ankle. They also offer effective protection against the elements, so your feet stay warm and dry without compromising style.

Once you’ve purchased your brand new pair of high-tops, you may want to know how you should lace them. Below, we’ve shared our tips on how to lace high-top trainers. 

A white Gola high-top with off-white trims and a off-white sole.

Gola Classics Women’s Coaster High Trainers

How to lace high-tops

While lacing your high-tops may seem trivial, it is essential for a secure, comfortable fit. 

Everyone has their preference when lacing high-tops, from creating criss-cross patterns to straight bar lacing. Here, we share how to lace your high-tops the Gola way.

Step one: First, straighten your laces to ensure they aren’t twisted. This will help them to last longer and provide a more secure fastening.

Step two: Next, thread your shoelace through the bottom eyelets of your high-tops closest to your toes. Insert the lace through the eyelets from above and pull through, creating a straight, horizontal bar between the two eyelets.

At this stage, it’s important to ensure the length of lace left on either side of the eyelets is as even as possible so that you will not run out of lace on one side of your shoe as you continue.

Step three: Start with the left eyelet lace and run the lace to the next eyelet up on the right side of the shoe, creating a diagonal line. Pull it through the eyelet from the top side of the shoe so that the end of the lace faces the shoe’s tongue as it is pulled through. This will create a stylish, seamless look.

Step four: Repeat step three with the opposite lace, again running the lace diagonally to the opposite side of the shoe and pulling it through the eyelet from above. Once you have completed this, you should have two diagonal lines that make a criss-cross pattern, with the ends of each lace facing inwards towards the trainer’s tongue. 

Step five: Continuously repeat these steps until you get to the top eyelets, criss-crossing the laces on the opposite sides and running the laces through the eyelets from above in the direction of the shoe’s inner part.

Step six: Once you have reached the top, you can tie your shoelaces together as normal, pulling the laces as tight or loose as needed to ensure a secure yet comfortable fit.

A white gola high top with rich rose-gold/peachy toned wingflashes. At the back of the shoe, near the top, it features a teal detailing. The high-top has a thick sole with ribbed detailing.

Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Rally High Plimsoll Trainers

What to wear with high-top trainers

High-top trainers come in a range of classic and on-trend designs guaranteed to become wardrobe-essentials. There are endless possibilities when styling them, as they offer so much versatility. 

Wearing high-top trainers is effortless, as you can easily style them with your go-to clothing pieces to create outfits that make you feel chic, comfortable and confident. Read our tips below to style your trainers with your favourite wardrobe staples. 

How to wear high-top trainers with jeans 

Denim jeans are extremely versatile, so pair perfectly with high-tops.

High-tops teamed with relaxed fit jeans are a great pairing. Straight, mom and wide-leg jeans are exceptionally comfortable and provide a casual aesthetic on dressed down days. Whether running errands or relaxing at home, we recommend opting for light wash denim in blue or grey and worn with simple T-shirts, shirts or knitwear to suit the season. 

Alternatively, try a more fitted style, such as slim or skinny jeans, for a smarter look. Their figure-hugging design will draw attention to your high-top trainers, making them a perfect choice if you want to show them off. Dark washes such as navy blue and black create a smart-casual look that can be worn for a wide range of occasions. Plus, if you have bright-coloured high tops, they will really contrast and pop against the darker denim.

Bold print high-top trainers by Gola. They are predominantly black and white, with a thick white sole that is ribbed near the front of the shoe. The sides of the shoe feature dalmation style dots, while the front, including the eyelet part of the shoe and the tongue, is a contrasting black colour.

Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Baseline High Safari Pure

How to wear high-top trainers with shorts

Shorts are an excellent clothing choice with high-top trainers, especially during the warmer months. 

Go casual with a pair of light-wash denim shorts or cargo shorts in a neutral or bold colour. They can be styled with various short and long-sleeve tops, so it’s easy to create different outfits to change your look. Try a pair of tailored shorts  to smarten up your high-tops.

Can I wear high-top trainers with a dress?

With many on-trend features, high-top trainers are perfect for marrying with dresses. You can style them with long maxi dresses or short dress styles, offering an on-trend, urban look. 

Plain white chunky Gola high-tops. These high-tops have a similar look to dunks or chunky trainers. They have Gola's loga in plain white, almost camoflaged into the white sides of the shoe. Chunky and cool, perfect for everything from jeans and shorts to dresses and skirts.

Gola Classics Women’s Slam High Trainers

Shop high-top trainers at Gola 

There are no rules for styling high-top trainers, as you can use your creativity to pair them with anything. Whether you opt for trousers, joggers, shorts or a skirt, there’s no end to the looks you can create.

At Gola, we stock an on-trend selection of high-top trainers, expertly crafted with high-quality materials. 

Explore the collection to discover our most popular high-top styles in various chic colours to suit your taste. From simple block colours to eye-catching prints, our striking collection has options to suit every taste.

Or, if you’re looking for more of your favourite Gola styles, discover our men’s and women’s new in range and find your next favourite pair today.

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Art

The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Trainers

Being vegan goes beyond diet. With growing concerns for the environment and the impact of animal farming on the planet, even those not dedicated to a plant-based diet are exploring alternatives as vegan fashion merges into the mainstream. 

Making vegan wardrobe choices reduces the need for leather goods and cattle farming, which is a key contributor to climate change. 

Gola is committed to extending its vegan trainer collection with a view of reducing the impact on the environment. Our vegan trainers complement a lifestyle choice, offering must-have footwear across low to high tops in various designs.

If you’re looking to create a vegan wardrobe, trainers are a great way to start, so follow our guide to vegan trainers for everything you need to know about the swap.

Table of Contents

  1. What are vegan trainers made from?
  2. Vegan trainers for men.
  3. Vegan trainers for women.
  4. Vegan trainers for children.

What are vegan trainers made from?

To qualify as vegan, trainers must be made with non-animal materials and use vegan-friendly glue and other elements. 

Canvas vegan trainers

Our vegan collection offers high-quality canvas trainers that are comfortable, lightweight and easy to clean, so you can keep them looking box-fresh for years to come. Easily paired with a wide range of outfits, Gola offers animal-print, platform or monochrome designs to suit your style seamlessly. 

Vegan trainers for men, women and children

Our vegan trainer collection is registered by The Vegan Society, which was established 75 years ago. The vegan trademark helps customers easily identify products free from animal ingredients. The vegan trademark allows brands to shout about their vegan products, from clothing and cosmetics to food and drink.

Vegan trainers for men

Our Vegan Gola Classics Men’s Varsity Trainers offer a classic lace-up plimsoll. With a canvas upper and classic Gola callouts, this style is versatile enough to dress up or down. A definite wardrobe essential, wear them with smart jeans and a jumper for an on-trend aesthetic. 

Vegan trainers for women

Our Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Coaster Trainers are superior quality, crafted with a canvas upper and rubber toe cap. This timeless trainer style is available in various colours, so you can pick your favourite to match an on-trend look. Impressively versatile, wear Coasters with jeans and a T-shirt for an off-duty day look, or team them with a dress for a more feminine look.

Vegan trainers for children

Our Vegan Gola Classics Kids Coaster Rainbow Trainers are a fun and vibrant style for an on-trend ‘mini-me’ look. Available in black or white with classic Gola callouts, these quality trainers are ideal for playtime outside. With an iconic heritage design that is comfortable and striking, these children’s vegan trainers also have a simple hook and loop fastening for quick and easy dressing.

Vegan footwear is on the rise as the movement continues to gain traction globally. Whether you’re looking to add to your existing vegan wardrobe or seeking to start from scratch, our selection of vegan trainers never compromises style. 

Crafted with comfort and durability in mind, invest in a premium pair of vegan trainers to help you tread lightly on the planet. Shop our full range of men’s or women’s vegan trainers today.

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Art Styling Tips and Trends

How to Wear Black Trainers for Women

Sleek, sophisticated, standout style. Black trainers deliver time and time again. 

Far from being restricted to gym wear,  black trainers can now be dressed up to take you effortlessly from day to night as they become an increasingly popular match with blazers and formal wear for an on-trend contrast.   

Black trainers can match effortlessly with all clothing pieces, from trousers to dresses and skirts to jeans. 

If you’re unsure how to style your black trainers or looking for sneakers to match your outfits, follow our style tips as we explore how to style black trainers and what colour socks to wear to complement your look.

Table of Contents:

  1. Midi skirt and low-top black trainers
  2. Knitted dress and black leather trainers
  3. Blazers and black suede trainers
  4. Mom jeans and chunky trainers
  5. Beige trench coat and black trainers
  6. Cargo pants and all-black trainers
  7. Smart trousers and black trainers
  8. Skinny jeans and high-top black trainers
  9. What colour socks to wear with black trainers

Midi skirt and low-top black trainers

A midi skirt and low-top black trainers is an effortless ensemble for those who enjoy a relaxed outfit. Pair a midi skirt with a leather jacket for a look that exudes style while retaining a laid-back aesthetic. 

Match our Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Coaster trainers perfectly with various colours of midi skirts for versatile style. These low-top retro plimsolls boast true British heritage style and are crafted with superior quality to offer a stylish finish to various outfits.

Black women's Gola canvas trainers

Knitted dress and black leather trainers

Can you wear black trainers with a dress? Absolutely. Wear black trainers with a knitted dress for an on-trend mix of style and comfort. This classic look can be dressed up for an evening out or worn with a padded jacket to keep you warm during colder seasons. Pair with a smart black coat to imbue sophisticated style or a leather jacket to inject effortless coolness into any outfit.

Add our Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Glitter Trainers to your wardrobe for a glitzy finish to your outfit. In a low-cut silhouette style, this heritage trainer features a black leather upper with a glitter wingflash trim and heel tab for subtle sophistication.

Black women's Gola trainers with glitter trim

Blazer and black suede trainers

Blazers have evolved from office wear essentials to everyday style staples. A blazer is a versatile piece that can be paired with jeans, leather trousers or a midi skirt to take your outfit from day to night. Match your blazer with a pair of black sneakers to keep the outfit looking on-trend and effortless. 

Our Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Pearl Trainers have a black suede upper with a contrasting pearlised heel tab and wingflash. This low-profile, sleek trainer with iconic Gola branding will add a hint of sparkle to dress up any outfit.

Women's black suede trainers

Mom jeans and chunky trainers

Straight from the ’80s, mom jeans are still popular as they match well with pretty much anything from oversized shirts to smart blazers. While all trainers can pair well with mom jeans, chunky trainers complement this ’80s vibe. 

Discover our Gola Classics Women’s Eclipse Trident Trainers to add a high-fashion edge to your outfit. These black trainers guarantee comfort and catwalk style with colour pop panels on a black upper and an exaggerated off-white sole.

Women's black Gola trainers with colourful details

Beige trench coat and black trainers

A must-have for any capsule wardrobe, beige trench coats are trending up and up. A trench coat is wonderfully versatile, as it is the perfect piece to take you from season to season. Match with black trainers for a fresh look for your coffee catch-up.

Our Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Trident Snake Trainers offer a contemporary edge with a striking sun, pink and grey reptile printed Gola wingflash trim. A modern rework of a black trainer classic, Bullet Trident fuses the old and the new for a style refresh.

Gola Classics Women's Bullet Trident Snake Trainers with a striking sun, pink and grey reptile printed Gola wingflash trim

Cargo pants and all-black trainers

From the runway to the street, cargo pants have been everywhere since their recent return to the fashion charts. Bang on-trend for the season, cargo pants can be difficult to style to keep them looking fresh. An easy way to adopt the utility-inspired style is to match them with all-black trainers.  

Our Gola Classics Women’s Grandslam Leather Trainers have a clean and simple design to subtly complement cargo pants without detracting from them as the standout piece. With a chunky sole and contrasting Gola branding, these trainers come straight from the back catalogue to express retro style.

All black women's Gola trainers with a chunky sole

Smart trousers and black trainers

Wearing smart trousers with black trainers is becoming increasingly more popular, as it gives any polished look an on-trend laid-back aesthetic. 

Our Vegan Gola Classics Women’s Coaster trainers are tennis-inspired plimsolls with a black upper and a contrasting off-white wingflash. Based on an original Gola style worn by tennis player Mark Cox, these black trainers will effortlessly complement smart trousers.

Women's black Gola trainers with white details

Skinny jeans and high-top black trainers

Skinny jeans and trainers are a classic combination for everyday style. Easy to put together, this combination offers a timeless look that will quickly become your go-to for every season, whether you opt for low-top or high-top trainer silhouettes. 

For cooler seasons, why not try our Gola Classics Women’s Coaster Peak High Hiker Trainers, as they offer the aesthetic of a boot with the look of a trainer? This hiker-inspired trainer option has a water-repellent upper to keep your feet warm and comfortable. 

High-top boot-style Gola trainers with thick white sole

What colour socks to wear with black trainers?

Black trainers are a must-have item for any woman’s wardrobe as they are an easy addition to an abundance of outfits. Black trainers pair well with nearly every colour of socks, however, certain rules must be followed to achieve your desired look.

Pairing black ankle socks with black trainers will always create seamless style, but be sure to replace socks as the black colour begins to fade into grey, as this will pull the focus from your outfit.

Wearing white socks with black trainers is an increasingly trendy look, creating a sportier aesthetic. Wear white long or ankle socks, depending on your outfit, for an added dimension. Or match black trainers that feature a contrasting wingflash with coordinating colourful socks. Use pastel colours or bold hues for a standout look.

Find your perfect pair of black trainers

Whether you prefer high-top or low-top silhouettes, formal sophistication or laid-back athleisure, black trainers provide the perfect finish to a wide range of outfits. 

With decades of expertise, Gola has an impressive collection of black trainers that are the perfect fit for every aesthetic. 

Explore our full collection of women’s black trainers to find your new favourite pair. 

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Influencers spotted in Gola

In need of inspiration on how to style your new Gola trainers, keep reading as this guide will show you how some of the hottest influencers have styled their Gola women’s sneakers.  

Let the influencer round up commence. 

Gola Classics Women’s Hawk Trainers

First up is @sophiefultonnn styling the brand new ‘Hawk’ court-inspired trainer. The ‘Hawk’ style translates as a ‘relaxed ‘80s’ trainer making it a top favourite with many influencers. @sophiefultonnn has paired this heritage sneaker with a pair of tailored trousers, a cream T-shirt and she has polished off her outfit with an oversized denim jacket, to create an effortless everyday look. 

Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Pure Trainers

It’s easy to see why the Gola ‘Bullet Pure’ trainer is a go-to style. This women’s heritage sneaker from Gola is a timeless design; featuring a hot coral wingflash and a marine blue heel tab, which add a pop of colour.  @sophia_rosemary has styled her pair of Gola’s with a cute sweater and blue high waisted jeans; a stylish look for a breezy summer day.

Gola Classics Women’s Grandslam Mode Trainers

If you are on the search for a pair of sneakers that are funky, fun and fabulous then the ‘Grandslam Mode’ pair will certainly tick all your style boxes. @rubymoira has embraced the vibe of this zebra and leopard printed Gola trainer and paired ‘Grandslam Mode’ with dazzling red trousers, a white T-shirt and a trendy leopard print jacket.  

Head over to Gola.co.uk to shop the latest Gola women’s styles.  

Art

The most successful colours in football

football team colours

If you looked at a list of the most successful Premier League football clubs, we’re sure the same team names would crop up again and again. Some of the top teams may put their success down to skill, effort and strategy but are there any more factors at play?

With an impressive sporting legacy and links to the world of football since the production of its first pair of football boots in the 1930s, Gola wanted to find out whether colours of kits impacted on success. The study looked at the colours worn by all premier league teams for every game and used this to see whether any team strip proved luckier or more effective at producing a win in the Premier League.

Method

Gola gathered data on all of the home and away games played since the beginning of the Premier League in 1992 and cross referenced this against the colours worn in each game to see if there was any correlation between colours worn and outcome of the match. Data up to the 17/18 season was used as the current season hasn’t yet ended (and we wouldn’t want to tempt fate by assuming the winners just yet).

This study included the different colours worn for both home and away games. Where a shirt had multiple colours present, Gola based the colour choice on the majority hue. The number of games each colour was worn in was analysed and this was used to work out the numbers of wins, losses and draws to calculate win and loss rate overall.

most successful football colours graph

Wins

To work out the win rate, the total number of games each colour was worn for was taken and used to calculate the percentage of wins and losses compared to games played. Not only was red worn for the most number of games that won, it also had the highest win rate of all colours. Considering Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal frequently wear red, it may not be much of a surprise to fans that the hue fared so well. So, if you want to increase your odds, it might be time to consider adopting red for your home team.

In second place was claret, which when worn for games won 40.1% of the time (not bad odds at all). Claret is a regular colour worn by top league teams West Ham and Aston Villa. Blue came third with a win rate of 39.2%, a colour popular amongst Birmingham, Brighton and Everton. Other colours that fared well were gold, black and white, all achieving over 35% of wins when worn.

Green was the unluckiest colour for wins, achieving only 21.3% of wins overall, this has been worn in away games previously for Aston Villa, West Brom and Liverpool (alongside other teams). Unfortunately for clubs opting for less popular colours, such as Watford and Blackpool,orange and yellow didn’t get good results and won less than 29% of the time.

ALLWinsDrawsLossesPointsWin RateLoss RateTotal Games
Red16939811128692944.50%29.70%3802
Claret432300344161040.10%32%1076
Blue13899641194482239.20%33.70%3547
Gold41264729436%41.20%114
Black735528827272035.20%39.60%2090
White145811051593472435.10%38.30%4156
Grey46395017734.10%37%135
Turquoise7682133.30%38.10%21
Sky Blue609404870222332.30%46.20%1883
Navy317283483127029.80%44.60%1083
Purple69679928329.40%42.10%235
Yellow498487808201427.80%45%1793
Orange695912026027.80%48.40%248
Pink4842025%25%16
Green628114826721.30%50.60%291

Losses

Green performed worst on losses as well, losing over half of all games played. Could it be that the colour matches the pitch a bit too much and makes it harder to see your teammates?

Orange and sky blue also had a high number of losses, losing over 45% of the time. The loss rate is surprising considering some of the top clubs frequently wear sky blue.

Wearing pink proved to win 25% of the time and lose 25% of the time (the rest being draws). It may not be the best guarantee to win, but it’s certainly not the worst colour to wear overall.

Draws

When looking at draws, white was the colour most likely to produce a draw. Of 4,156 games played with a team wearing white, 1,105 resulted in a draw. It may not be the best sign to wear white for a vital game where a win is needed, if your team does you may not want to hold out too much hope. Red and blue also produced high numbers of draws.

As a percentage of all games, the less common colours proved more likely to result in a draw. Purple, green and turquoise all had a draw rate of over 28%, more than any other team. It shows going for unusual hues may not be the best strategy for your club.

Points

When based on points, red was the colour which came out on top. This, combined with the percentage of wins relative to games played, means red is the one to back if your team want to up the chances of a win. Quintessentially British colours showed to have luck on their side, as the top three highest winning colours were red,white and blue.

Pink was the colour that achieved the lowest number of points in the Premier League, worn only a handful of times and having more chance of resulting in a draw than a win.

Colour of choice

White was the most popular colour of choice, being the option chosen in 4,156 out of 20,490 games up to 2018. Whilst popular, this hasn’t ensured it produced the most wins, so some teams may want to rethink their away strips for next season.

Art

The key trends of the 1970s

1970s van

The 1970s was a decade to be remembered in history. Not only revered for its introduction of technological advancements, the decade also paved the way for a new era of fashion and music trends which would go on to inspire and mould the creative outputs we see today.

The ‘70s was not only a key time in history but also a turning point when Gola became a household name, following the release of our flagship Harrier shoe in 1968. With such significant events occurring during this time, we take a look back through the 1970s to remember the best music, technology, hairstyles and fashion.

Groovy Music

beatles record

The 1970s was all about experimentation with music. We saw greater diversity forming with the new wave of anarchic punk witnessed from the Sex Pistols alongside the juxtaposing upbeat development of funk and soul from legends like Aretha Franklin. The disco anthems of the Bee Gees provided some of the greatest hits of the ‘70s, with hits such as ‘Stayin’ Alive’, ‘Night Fever’ and ‘How Deep Is Your Love?’ all being released in the decade.

Musical icon David Bowie changed the way we experienced music with his evolving style and intriguing personas adding more dimension to his music, in particular the Thin White Duke became a key persona for the ‘70s era. Bowie’s songs proved to stand the test of time and are still enjoyed today, showing the longevity of his influence and the power of his talent.

Fleetwood Mac released their internationally acclaimed album ‘Rumours’ in 1977, which brought to the mainstream hits; ‘Go Your Own Way’, ‘Dreams’ and ‘The Chain’. Perhaps one of the most celebrated of all time and certainly one of the best-selling, the album documented the widely speculated relationship issues of the bands own members. ‘Rumours’ took the tribulations of Fleetwood Mac themselves and channelled it into a best-selling album which still stands up against chart music released today.

Legendary band ABBA formed in Stockholm in 1972 and would go on to win Eurovision in 1974, a feat which would help propel them to fame of astronomical levels. ABBA enjoyed a string of hits through the ‘70s, including renowned singles ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Money, Money, Money’. Not just inspiring in music, ABBA went on to influence films and stage, with their catalogue of songs turned into a movie and show ‘Mamma Mia’.

New Technology

polaroid camera

Technology may have advanced in leaps and bounds over the years but it wasn’t that long ago we were all listening to tape cassettes and marvelling at the capabilities of a Pocketronic calculator. The Polaroid camera was created a few decades before the 1970s but saw a surge in popularity during this decade, as it allowed users to efficiently print their snaps in minutes and take with them on the go.

Entertainment advanced further with electronic game consoles being a must-have in many family homes. The Atari was a favourite pastime for ‘70s kids, who spent many a weekend trying to beat their high score on Pong.

The TV had already become an essential home item by the 1970s but the invention of the Videocassette Recorder made it all the more desirable to consumers, giving families the option to record their favourite shows and play them back at a later date. VHS tapes were released in the early ‘70s to allow storage of TV recordings, revolutionising the way we consumed television and ensuring quality television shows were never missed.

The home computer also took off in the ‘70s, with the Apple II becoming one of the first commercially successful PCs to be released. Created by technical geniuses Steve Jobs and Jerry Manock, the Apple II offered something new to the average household and took a different approach to competitors who were targeting the professional market at the time. Jobs ensured the Apple II design featured a plastic outer casing to be more appealing to the average person, concealing the wires and mechanics inside and being a more aesthetically pleasing computer to have at home.

Bold Fashion

70s fashion

In the recurring cycle of fashion 1970s trends have returned in new iterations, but back in the day these trends were revolutionary and new to the experimental fashion consumer. Western themed clothes came to the forefront of design, as tan suede adorned many jackets, waistcoats and trousers. Fringing also became a huge trend of the decade, with jackets and skirts taking on the style in an abundance.

Menswear saw collars and cuffs go oversized, with accommodating flared trousers to suit. Colour matching suits and shirts were not popular during this time, as bold hues such as purples and blues were clashed with lime greens and oranges for a vibrant result.

For women, there were many trends on offer to provide a versatile choice of style. The ‘hippy’ movement inspired earth tones in both clothing and footwear, with maxi dresses and peasant blouses becoming more popular in pretty embroidered designs.

Shirts were colourful, with no shying away from clashing prints or textures with your outfits. Tie-dye was a popular DIY method of creating colourful prints on T-shirts. Button-down shirts also offered busy patterns and prints with psychedelic designs becoming popular to result in statement looks.

The influence of disco music and the new wave of rock and pop encouraged more fashion-forward observers to don jumpsuits on nights, not complete without sky-high platform heels to match. There was an androgyny to the stage outfits of artists such as David Bowie that birthed a new way to dress for the masses.

In sportswear, Tennis was the sport that influenced casual wear for men and women. Polo shirts became a staple silhouette to many wardrobes, often being paired with adhering tennis trainers in bright white hues. Tracksuits also grew to become everyday attire toward the end of the 1970s, as the beginnings of what we know as athleisure today developed.

Big Hair

retro hairstyle

Hairstyles became bigger and wilder during the 1970s, as people looked for a new look to suit the changing times. Jane Fonda became a style icon, influencing women everywhere to go for the ‘Shag’ style and cut more layers into their hair and add a fringe to match. Women’s hair in general was looser and less styled, reflecting the free-spirited nature of the time.

Men’s hair also got less structured as more guys embraced a natural look and grew their hair long. Beards and mustaches also became more popular during this time, perhaps inspired by the top musicians of the time.

Think you know all about the 1970s? Take our retro quiz and see if you recognise the faces and items.

Art Born in Britian Fashion Music & Pop Culture

How 80s and 90s Manchester Music Changed Male Fashion

90s Music

Music and fashion is a stormy marriage. For one artist it’s a supportive crux that keeps them in the limelight (Madonna’s cones and anything Gaga), for others it’s the first sign that things are on the slide (Sinitta’s X-Factor palmleaf dress).

But the clothing choices we make owes a lot to bands and singers, and few areas can boast a heavyweight title in this area than the Manchester music scene.

This vibrant north-west England metropolis — the first city outside of London to open an Armani shop — is divided between delirious Madchester, rhythmic Northern Soul, and ballsy Britpop. A city that fuses ‘Manc Swag’ and all-night clubbing with high-end designer shops and ultra-chic hangouts; we’re looking at how Manchester music launched male fashion into unchartered territory.

Manchster music

Happy Mondays

If you hear Madchester, one of the first bands you see is Happy Mondays. The term Madchester became part of British vocabulary in the 1990s. It was created to sum up a revolution in Manchester’s music scene, as well as the surging popularity of psychedelic rock and electronic dance music. Madchester’s quirky/bohemian clothes and fresh sound worked together to create a cultural phenomenon in the city, which centred around the explosion in the availability of ecstasy that changed a ‘night out’ into an entirely new experience.

Before anyone knew it, ‘baggy music’ — a genre of funk, house, guitar rock, and psychedelic sounds — was born and Happy Mondays fandom soared.

Even excluding the band’s hallucinatory sound, mad performances and off-stage behaviour, Happy Mondays is one of the most entertaining bands ever to hit music fashion.

Think flared jeans, buttoned up shirts and hippie-like tops (or just Shaggy from Scooby Doo) topped off with a fishing or bucket hat and you’ve got a visual style that is Madchester through and through. Happy Mondays fans quickly followed suit and even today, we can buy the smiling ‘acid face’ logo emblazoned on t-shirts and hoodies, which shows how the band’s fashion legacy has kept strong.

Stone Roses

A lot like Happy Mondays, Stone Roses helped to marry music and fashion, and were massive players on the Manchester music scene. Founding member, Ian Brown, led the band to international stardom in the 1980s, and they soon become famous for their distinctive style and resurrection of flared trousers.

From the fisherman bucket hat to the Adidas jacket, Stone Roses fashion was all about loose clothes and a casual dress sense. You catch Stone Roses fans sporting tracksuit tops, floral or checked shirts, too-big Stone Island sweatshirts, and maybe even the iconic ‘mod cut’ hairdo made famous by Brown himself. This messy haircut is a mix of classic rock and ‘baggy style’, influencing stars and fans alike over many years — including Liam Gallagher and The Enemy.

Stone Roses helped to create a fashion spin-off of the ‘baggy music’ genre that fans loved, and this Manchester band became synonymous with the term, scally — a word first used to simply describe a working class person with a casual/sportswear dress sense that is now, unfortunately, almost always used as an insult for yobbish behaviour.

Oasis

Another of Manchester music’s most famous bands, Oasis, formed in 1991 and won countless MTV, NME and Brit awards before splitting in 2009.

Immediately when you think of how Oasis dressed, you probably imagine khaki parkas, baggy shirts and Lennon-esque glasses. A big part of music and fashion in Manchester around Oasis’ heyday was the revival of the 1960s’ Mod, which Oasis spearheaded amazingly.

Original mod fashion brought together tailored suits and military-style trench coats with buttoned-down collars and fitted trousers. Bands like Oasis took hold of this idea and spun it into something that fitted perfectly into the world of Manchester music. Keeping the streamlined look, Oasis gave mod fashion a rockier edge with Paisley-print shirts, tracksuit jackets, messy haircuts, khaki coats zipped up to the chin, and straight/slim fit jeans (never skinny).

Brands like Levi, Fred Perry and Tommy Hilfiger were often found draped on The Gallaghers, who also loved the lightweight, waist-length look of the Harrington jacket. This garment was actually first made in Manchester, which probably made it a source of pride for the Mancunians, and it was the perfect mix of smart/casual for the quintessential 90s’ mod look.

Throughout their time at the top, the Oasis boys loved the odd Kangol-branded bucket hat like the rest of Madchester, and made sure to sling on plenty of Adidas tracky jackets (fully-zipped) for the ultimate lad-look that you see everywhere today.

Oasis continues to influence the world of fashion. Ex-member, Liam Gallagher, started fashion label, Pretty Green, in 2009 which has had great success in bringing Oasis’ mod/Britpop/90s’ lad fashion into 2017.

Joy Division

A Manchester music scene titan, Joy Division was originally called Warsaw and formed in 1976. It had great commercial success before the death of lead singer, Ian Curtis; but was also a leader in alternative fashion that still influences fans today.

The band had a very simplistic attitude to clothing. Tucked-in dress shirts, plain suit trousers, brogues, and large overcoats with upturned collars was the style of Joy Division. Similar to The Smiths, Joy Division opted for monochrome shades that didn’t attract attention and helped encapsulate the dark, emotional, disenchanted sound that was Joy Division’s post punk/gothic rock legacy.

The Smiths

Eighties’ rock band, The Smiths, had huge influence over the independent music scene and inspired a wave of alternative rock/indie pop groups. But when questioned about fashion, Morrissey was brutally dismissive of clothing trends and claimed that The Smiths were pretty much the worst dressed band ever.

Many fans clearly disagreed and Morrissey is still known for his quiffed hairstyle and wire-rimmed glasses (which possibly inspired Liam Gallagher’s spectacles affinity). The Smiths’ uniform consisted of baggy shirts, over-sized cardis and large jumpers, but they also had a grungier side that was made up of acid-washed/ripped jeans, leather jackets and sunglasses. These styles worked to cement the band’s unique and unforgettable sound that blended poignant, multi-layered songs with an undertone of youth angst and discontent.

The Smiths came about at a time when the flamboyant costumes of Duran Duran, Adam Ant and Culture Club sashayed around the opposite side of the Eighties’ music stage. However hard Morrissey fought on the side of art against fashion pageantry, The Smiths still inspired generations of dressers who go for the thoughtless, laid-back, ‘thrown-on’ look every morning.

Manchester music and fashion has revolutionised British style for decades. Check out our range of retro men’s and women’s plimsolls for your own alternative look.

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