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7 Fresh Takes on the Dress-and-Trainers Combo for Effortless Summer Style

7 Fresh Takes on the Dress-and-Trainers Combo for Effortless Summer Style

Few outfit combos are as effortlessly cool—or as universally loved—as the dress-and-trainers look. Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, or jetting off on a weekend getaway, pairing a breezy dress with comfy sneakers strikes that perfect balance between style and practicality.

And while the classic combo never really goes out of fashion, summer 2025 is all about fresh twists that keep things feeling new. From bold color pairings to unexpected silhouettes, we’ve rounded up 7 chic ways to refresh your dress-and-trainers game this season. Get ready to step up your summer style—with zero effort required.

1. Graphic Maxi + Retro Runners

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Credit: Pinterest

This look proves that a flowing, graphic-print maxi dress pairs perfectly with retro-inspired trainers for an easy, elevated vibe. The long-sleeve silhouette keeps things polished, while the chunky New Balance sneakers add a cool, sporty contrast—right in step with 2025’s love for mixing feminine and athletic styles.

The combination feels laid-back yet chic, ideal for everything from brunch dates to city strolls. Bonus style points come from the bold accessories: red cat-eye sunglasses and a gold-chain handbag, which add extra personality without overwhelming the look. This is the kind of effortless summer styling we’ll be seeing everywhere this season.

2. Gingham Midi + Chunky Dad Sneakers

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Credit: Pinterest

This look is all about blending vintage-inspired charm with sporty edge. The black-and-white gingham midi dress, complete with statement sleeves and fringe details, brings a classic feel that’s instantly elevated by bold, chunky dad sneakers.

The contrast between the delicate pattern and the heavy-soled trainers feels super fresh for spring/summer 2025. Add in sleek white sunglasses and a cinched belt, and you’ve got a street style–ready outfit that balances polish and playfulness. This combo is proof that a feminine silhouette can totally hold its own alongside oversized, athletic footwear.

3. Celestial Maxi + Classic High-Tops

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Credit: Pinterest

This outfit channels laid-back luxury with a cosmic twist. The navy maxi dress, adorned with gold swirling patterns and subtle celestial motifs, creates a dreamy, almost ethereal vibe, while classic white Converse high-tops keep the look firmly grounded in casual cool.

It’s the perfect pairing for 2025’s ongoing love affair with statement prints balanced by timeless sneaker silhouettes. Oversized earrings, retro sunglasses, and a snakeskin handbag bring added texture and personality to the mix. This combo is proof that you can be both whimsical and practical in one stylish swoop.

4. Sheer Lace Maxi + Sleek Tennis Sneakers

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Credit: Pinterest

Romantic and sporty collide in this dreamy ensemble. The sheer lace maxi dress, with its delicate floral print and vintage-inspired paneling, brings ethereal charm, while crisp white tennis sneakers keep the overall vibe grounded and modern.

It’s a perfect example of how to make a traditionally feminine piece feel wearable for everyday life—ideal for everything from outdoor brunches to casual events. Oversized sunglasses and a structured white handbag add extra polish, proving that elegance doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort. This look is pure spring/summer 2025 perfection.

5. Cream Maxi Dress + Classic Adidas Sneakers

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Credit: Pinterest

This look is all about pairing timeless pieces for maximum impact. A flowing cream maxi dress brings understated elegance, while the addition of iconic Adidas sneakers keeps things casual and sporty. The cropped leather jacket introduces a bit of edge, perfectly balancing the softness of the dress.

A snakeskin mini bag ties everything together, adding just the right amount of texture and pattern play. This outfit is proof that even your most polished pieces can feel totally fresh when styled with trainers—a no-brainer combo for summer 2025.

6. Striped Maxi Shirt Dress + Minimalist White Sneakers

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Credit: Pinterest

For a look that screams easy elegance, this striped maxi shirt dress styled with crisp white sneakers is a winner. The dress’s oversized fit and subtle yellow stripes give it a breezy, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for hot summer days. Paired with minimalist sneakers, it keeps the whole outfit looking polished yet casual.

A woven leather tote adds a luxe, tactile element that elevates the simplicity of the ensemble. This combo is a masterclass in how to make understated pieces feel effortlessly chic for 2025.

7. Playful Mini Dress + Retro Brown Sneakers

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Credit: Pinterest

This flirty mini dress in a bold maroon and white pattern pairs perfectly with retro-inspired brown sneakers, delivering a youthful and energetic vibe. The dress’s voluminous shape adds movement and keeps things breezy for the heat of summer, while the sneakers ground the look with a sporty edge.

The matching burgundy bag ties everything together seamlessly, creating a cohesive palette. It’s a fun twist on the dress-and-trainers formula that feels fresh and unexpected for 2025. Perfect for city strolls or casual brunch dates, this combo proves you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort.