For anyone keeping a close eye on the ever-shifting world of fashion, autumn/winter 2025 has delivered a pair of trends that are as practical as they are stylish. Black trainers and Argyle knitwear—two wardrobe staples with deep roots and fresh relevance—have emerged as must-haves for the season, bringing together comfort, heritage, and a dash of modern flair. But what makes these pieces so irresistible right now? Let’s take a closer look at how these trends are shaping the sartorial landscape, and why everyone from runway icons to street style stars is embracing them.
Black trainers, long cherished for their versatility and dirt-defying practicality, are having an undeniable moment. According to ELLE, the appeal of a black trainer hardly needs explaining to those who favor an all-black wardrobe. When you’re not reaching for the warmth of a winter boot, the polish of a penny loafer, or the ease of a ballet flat, a black trainer is the go-to for good reason. Unlike their white or color-pop cousins—which have enjoyed the spotlight in recent seasons—black trainers work quietly. They anchor an outfit without stealing the show, and their ability to hide scuffs and stains makes them indispensable year-round.
But styling a black trainer isn’t entirely effortless. Choices about socks, hem lengths, and the decision between a chunky or slim silhouette all come into play. Still, once you find the right pair, they’ll quickly become your new favorite for everything from weekday errands to weekend adventures. In fact, as ELLE notes, “they’ll become your new trainer of choice for running weekday errands or weekend plans, lending a little more polish than other trainer colourways to even the most casual of looks.”
Leading the charge this season are fashion houses and brands that know how to set the tone. Miu Miu’s autumn/winter 2025 runway, for example, provided ample inspiration. Amidst a sea of colorful, snakeskin flat lace-up versions, a sleek all-black pair stood out, styled with a floral dress and sheer brown socks—a pairing that’s both unexpected and entirely of the moment. Chanel, never one to miss a beat, showcased black trainers emblazoned with their iconic interlocking CC logos, paired with the house’s signature tweed for a look that was classic yet contemporary. Meanwhile, Balenciaga revived its partnership with Puma, reintroducing the black suede Speedcat, and Cecilie Bahnsen continued her collaboration with Asics, putting a romantic spin on performance footwear with flower-adorned GEL-Cumulus 16s.
There’s truly a black trainer for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the retro appeal of Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66—a favorite of Hailey Bieber, Kaia Gerber, and Adwoa Aboah—the timeless pull of an Adidas Samba, or sportier styles like the Nike Shox, Salomon ACS PRO, or Asics GEL-Nimbus, the options are both plentiful and stylish. Even the Adidas Taekwondo shoe, a martial arts-inspired gem from the early 2000s, has resurfaced as a trend in 2025, rivaling the ever-popular Samba and appearing on style icons like Jennifer Lawrence and Iris Law.
This year has also seen exciting new launches and collaborations. Miista, already known for its brilliantly crafted boots, introduced its first-ever handmade trainer—the Nikoletta Sneakers—earlier this year, blending a 1980s footballer-meets-boxer silhouette that quickly became a cult favorite. Miuccia Prada’s leather sneakers with a buckle are already topping wish lists, while the Adidas Samba, especially in its black-and-white iteration, continues to define the moment thanks in part to collaborations like Adidas Originals x Wales Bonner.
Other standout models include the New Balance 204L, which brings a sporty touch to a retro running silhouette, and Dries Van Noten’s leather-trimmed suede sneakers, which blend luxe materials with the brand’s signature offbeat charm. Even the Salomon ACS PRO, once reserved for trail running, has stepped into the fashion spotlight, becoming a favorite among those who appreciate technical precision and streetwear style.
While footwear is getting its due, knitwear is enjoying a renaissance of its own. This season, Argyle knitwear is the undisputed star. Defined by diamond shapes that overlap in varying tones—sometimes creating a three-dimensional effect—Argyle’s roots go deep. As ELLE explains, the pattern originates from Argyll in western Scotland, where it was traditionally used in socks worn with kilts. But in 2025, Argyle has moved far beyond its heritage, appearing in jumpers, cardigans, and vests that add a preppy, scholastic appeal to any ensemble.
The trend isn’t just about nostalgia. Argyle’s bookish charm lends an off-kilter edge to modern outfits, making it the number one knitwear trend for autumn/winter 2025. Style influencers are taking note. Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, for instance, wore a cropped Argyle sweater to Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2026 show, pairing it with a neat kilt and oversized hoodie. While a plain jumper might have sufficed, her choice of Argyle “added to the scholastic appeal of her ensemble and aligned with Mrs Prada’s directive,” according to ELLE.
Argyle knitwear is also being styled with rigid, Dad-like denim jeans, loafers, and socks—a look that’s as vintage-inspired as it is fresh. “It’s a Grandpa’s dream outfit and now should be yours too,” quips ELLE. The trend’s popularity comes down to several factors: its preppy appeal, its rich heritage, and—perhaps most importantly—its ease of wear. There’s really no easier way to update a winter wardrobe than with an Argyle print, which brings instant polish and fashion know-how to any look.
What’s more, Argyle’s heritage feel makes it a prime candidate for those seeking longevity in their wardrobes. Even in an era when trends come and go at dizzying speed, details with a rich style history are being prioritized. “Even seasonal trends are prioritising trends and details that will go the long run, or already have a rich style heritage,” notes ELLE. This emphasis on timelessness and investment pieces is a welcome shift for many shoppers who want their purchases to last beyond a single season.
For those looking to jump on the Argyle bandwagon, there’s no shortage of options. The best six Argyle knitwear pieces to buy now have been handpicked by ELLE, offering something for every style and budget. Whether you opt for a classic jumper, a statement cardigan, or a versatile vest, there’s an Argyle piece that will fit seamlessly into your wardrobe.
As autumn settles in and winter looms, the pairing of black trainers and Argyle knitwear offers a perfect blend of comfort, heritage, and modern style. These trends aren’t just fleeting fads—they’re the kind of investments that pay off season after season, quietly elevating even the simplest of outfits. In a world where fashion can sometimes feel overwhelming, it’s nice to know that the classics still have plenty of life left in them.
