If You Want Your Trench Coat to Look French in Autumn, Wear Them With This Shoe Trend, Not Trainers
Our take
The subtle shift in footwear pairings this autumn signals a broader recalibration within the fashion landscape – a move away from the aggressively casual and toward a quieter, more considered elegance. The declaration that trainers are no longer the go-to accompaniment for a classic trench coat, championed by Kaia Gerber, feels less like a fleeting trend and more like a natural evolution. We’ve already seen a similar sentiment emerge, with fashion enthusiasts embracing closed-toe shoes over the ubiquitous flip-flops and sandals [Over Flip-Flops and Sandals? Fashion People Are Styling This Closed-Toe Pre-Autumn Shoe Trend Instead]. This isn't about rejecting comfort entirely; it’s about integrating it with a sense of refinement, a conscious effort to elevate everyday pieces through deliberate styling choices. The inherent Parisian chic associated with the trench coat demands a certain level of polish, and a sneaker simply doesn’t always align with that aesthetic. It’s a return to intentionality, a desire to project an image of understated sophistication.
The power of Kaia Gerber's endorsement shouldn't be underestimated. As a style icon with a keen eye for detail and a consistent commitment to a refined personal aesthetic, her choices resonate deeply within the fashion community. It speaks to a larger cultural mood, one that favors timelessness over fleeting trends and quality over quantity. This echoes the sentiments explored in our recent piece about building an elegant autumn wardrobe, where Massimo Dutti pieces were highlighted for their enduring appeal and ability to create a foundation of effortless style [I'm Building My Most Elegant Autumn Wardrobe to Date—9 Massimo Dutti Buys That Made It Easy]. The emphasis is on investing in well-made, versatile pieces that transcend seasons and trends, and pairing them in ways that feel both authentic and considered. The shift away from trainers, therefore, isn't a rejection of casual wear, but a recognition that even casual pieces can be styled with intention to create a more polished and sophisticated look.
This development also reflects a broader cultural conversation surrounding "quiet luxury," a style characterized by understated elegance, impeccable quality, and a lack of overt branding. It’s a rejection of the loud, attention-seeking trends that have dominated fashion in recent years, opting instead for a more subtle and sophisticated approach. The focus is on the details—the cut of the coat, the quality of the leather, the craftsmanship of the shoe—rather than the logo emblazoned across the front. It's a style that prioritizes longevity and timelessness over fleeting trends, a philosophy that aligns with a growing awareness of sustainability and ethical consumption. Even the consideration of hair care, essential for maintaining a polished look, is gaining importance, as highlighted in our recent article on summer hair repair [The 10 Best Summer Hair Repair Products for Sun, Salt and Chlorine Damage]. Ultimately, the entire presentation—from clothing to hair—contributes to the overall image of understated confidence.
Looking ahead, it’s intriguing to consider how this shift in footwear pairings will influence the broader fashion landscape. Will we see a continued move away from overtly casual trends and towards a more refined aesthetic? Will other style icons follow Kaia Gerber's lead and embrace more sophisticated footwear choices? Perhaps the most compelling question is whether this signals a more permanent rejection of the “athleisure” look that has dominated the past decade, or simply a temporary recalibration as fashion seeks new avenues for expression. Regardless of the ultimate outcome, it’s clear that the way we style our trench coats this autumn is a powerful indicator of the evolving values and priorities within the fashion world.
Kaia Gerber has had a big summer. The supermodel-cum-literary-enthusiast-cum-actor has spent most of the season gallivanting around the globe to promote her performance in Ryan Murphy’s new steamy ‘80s teen thriller, The Shards. As a certified bibliophile, it should come as no surprise to hear that she plays a starring role in the television adaptation of the book of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. So, whilst many of her contemporaries were cruising on yachts around the Mediterranean, Gerber took to the road in custom Prada and bespoke Valentino couture to publicise the show. (Including sitting down with none other than Who What Wear UK whilst she was in London.)
Now, with it already the number one most-watched series on Disney+, it appears that Gerber finally has the opportunity to take the much-needed downtime she deserves. But it appears there’s no rest for the wicked or the sartorially inclined, with Gerber using one of her first days off in months to deliver a stellar case of autumn wardrobe envy. Stepping out in Los Angeles alongside her boyfriend, fellow actor and nepo baby Lewis Pullman, she reminded us of the cold weather’s impending arrival by wearing an outfit every chic dresser will be clambering to recreate once this heatwave ends.
Indeed, whilst out for dinner, the 24-year-old opted for a timeless formula that consisted of a black dress, trench coat and black ballet flats. She accessorised the look with a cobalt blue Chanel flap bag and a chocolate brown scarf, two of the biggest colour trends of the past year. Despite founding Library Science, a book club that highlights underrepresented voices and debut worlds, her approach to personal style could never be described as too studious.
In fact, between her pumps and beige trench coat, her ensemble looks certifiable Parisian, with these pieces cardinal staples in any French woman’s wardrobe. Earlier this year, Gerber even teamed up with French footwear designer Repetto to create a collection of block-heel ballet flats inspired by dance and famous German choreographer Pina Bausch.
She might not have had an ordinary Euro Summer like the rest of us, but it’s safe to say that this season, she’s taking cues from the best style from across the continent. Classic, elegant and chic, shop Kaia Gerber’s stylish autumn uniform below.
Shop Kaia Gerber's Trench Coat, Black Dress and Ballet Flats Autumn Outfit:
For the ultimate collection of French outerwear, reach for Sézane.
Reformation pieces are constantly in rotation in Kaia Gerber's wardrobe.
This supple leather will feel soft as butter.
From the hills of Hollywood to the sprawling countryside of the Costwolds, this car coat will suit every occasion.
Kaia Gerber made the LBD her go-to during the press tour for The Shards, and this piece emulates this silhouette perfectly.
From the oversized bow to the gathered ruching around the foot, this style is so chic.
With lightweight fabric, this longline shape is ideal for
A style you can elevate from day-to-night.
Beloved by celebrities like Hailey Bieber, this style is the sleekest version of ballet pumps imaginable.
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