In 2025, retro trainers for women are defining the fashion landscape with their blend of nostalgia and contemporary style. According to Google Trends data for 2025, searches for women's trainers consistently surpass those for men's, peaking at the end of 2024, a clear indicator that women are driving the retro trainer revival. Fashion magazines, bloggers and runways confirm: classic silhouettes and heritage branding are everywhere, and the trend isn't slowing down.
Brands like Back 70, Gola, Victoria (Spain), and Teddy Smith (France) stand at the forefront, offering women a curated mix of comfort, style, and throwback appeal. These aren't just shoes, they're a style statement, versatile enough for wide-legged trousers, chic dresses, or athleisure wear.
Retro Looking Trainers for Women
Retro-looking trainers are all about channelling the past, think streamlined shapes, suede uppers, bold stripes, and saturated colour pops. Suede trainers, in particular, have seen their trend momentum surge, with search interest up 150% since April 2024. This year’s biggest design notes include low-profile soles, caramel rubber or gum outsoles, and visible heritage branding.
Gola’s women’s retro range celebrates the brand’s British heritage with pastel hues, floral overlays, and eye-catching partnerships. Many styles, including the Elan and Tornado, nod to vintage track shoes while using leather & suede for a breathable and lightweight finish.
Victoria, a trending Spanish brand, modernises its retro runners with bright palettes and eco-friendly innovation, while maintaining the clean, nostalgic lines beloved by our customers. This season, expect animal print and hints of metallic in their retro-inspired walking trainers; they're sure to sell out fast!
Back 70, one of our newer Italian brands, revives classic silhouettes with durable construction and design nods to both 1970s and Y2K styling. They're a real must-have for the authentic retro lover. These low-profile styles combine high-grade Italian leather and suede, a round toe box and a low cut design which feels great to wear!
Teddy Smith brings French flair with a streetstyle edge to its trainers, striking the balance between Parisian cool and retro comfort. They're so comfortable to wear with great support. They're a fantastic price point for anyone looking to try out a retro style.
Retro Platform Trainers
A major shift in 2025 is the powerful comeback of retro platform trainers. According to fashion trend data, platform designs are merging retro influences with height and modern comfort. Our customers gravitate to these trainers for the extra lift without sacrificing wearability, perfect for office-to-evening outfits or midi-dresses.
Key features in the latest retro platforms:
- Lightweight soles with advanced cushioning for all-day wear.
- Classic uppers in bold hues or minimalist neutrals.
- Combine ergonomic designs with heritage-inspired finishes.
Brands like Victoria and Gola have some fantastic options, offering platform variants that reference their most iconic models but with ultra-supportive, modern soles. Expect playful colourways and chunky silhouettes that nod to both ‘90s excess and 2020s functionality.
Retro Runner Trainers
Retro runner trainers are at the heart of the 2025 sneaker surge. Popularised as everyday must-haves, they have transitioned seamlessly from sporting roots to style staples. These runner silhouettes—often with suede and nylon uppers, sculpted soles, and a slightly raised heel—offer support, versatility, and a distinctly vintage athletic charm.
Gola’s “Firefly”, “Grandslam”, and “Elan” models are standout examples, blending archive-inspired design with street-ready details.
How to style Retro Trainers in 2025:
Here at Sheneil shoes, we love how versatile retro trainers are. There are endless ways to style them. Here are some of our favourite combinations:
- Pair with Tailoring for Effortless Chic
Retro trainers work beautifully with wide-leg trousers, straight-legged slacks, or even tailored shorts. Balance a slim, low-profile retro runner with looser cuts, or offset chunkier silhouettes with more fitted pieces.
- Update Casual Looks
Jeans: This is a classic pairing. Straight, barrel, or wide-leg denim allow your trainers to stand out (cropped cuts show off ankle details). Maxi denim skirts are also trending alongside retro trainers in 2025. Add a slouchy hoodie, T-shirt, or bomber jacket for relaxed streetwear energy. Or, add an oversized leather jacket for a touch of edge.
- Mix with Feminine Dresses & Skirts
Retro trainers are the ultimate way to ground floaty midi or maxi dresses, offering a stylish contrast that feels both modern and comfortable. Runway stylists are pairing sporty suede trainers with printed dresses for a playful yet sophisticated vibe this season. Pleated midi skirts or slip dresses also bring out the retro trainer’s versatility.
- Embrace Athleisure and “Wrong Shoe Theory”
Wear tailored trousers or a sharp waistcoat with sporty trainers for a juxtaposed, fashion-forward take. Athleisure also thrives, retro trainers bring polish to joggers and athflow silhouettes, combining comfort with contemporary appeal.
- Add the Right Socks and Accessories
Ribbed crew socks, especially in a white or tonal shade, are a must with retro trainers in 2025. For a personal touch, consider customising your laces or adding lace charms and pendants—a subtle but on-trend styling update.
Best Retro Trainers 2025
The best retro trainers of 2025 are defined by three pillars:
- Heritage style,
- Innovative comfort & support
- Eco-conscious construction
Trend data confirms that demand for women’s retro trainers is at an all-time high, outpacing men’s in search volume, and sustainability is a driving purchase factor.
