Smart casual. Two words every man dreads to hear (along with ‘alcohol-free’ and ‘children permitted.’)

Luckily, relaxing dress codes and the rise of the smart-casual trainer has unearthed some much-needed middle ground. Just as sportswear has been embraced up top, similarly the minimalist trainer has become an increasingly common anchor to smart trousers and tailoring.

In a bid to combat dress code confusion, we’ve selected some of the best offerings that’ll work whatever the occasion.

Clae Bradley Sage Sneakers

Minimal design is usually what makes a smart-casual sneaker so versatile. Therefore, swapping high-fashion logos for high street design is a safer bet. These washed suede shoes, a collaboration between British footwear brand Clae and premium retailer Reiss, are a refined take on the more ubiquitous offerings.

Available at Reiss.

Mango Lace-Up Leather Sneakers

Lazy days at the beach may still be months away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little sand on your feet right now. These nappa leather kicks by Barcelona-based fashion giant Mango are handmade in Spain and will bring a Catalonian kick to your plates of meat.

Available at Mango.

Undandy ’92 Cornell

Move over ‘mankle’ and ‘bromance’, the ‘trunkstrap’ might just be 2017’s portmanteau-in-waiting, especially if Undandy’s Cornell hybrid is anything to go by. The bespoke shoemaker has welded the traditional double monkstrap to a classic trainer sole unit, resulting in a surprisingly solid kick for the best of both worlds.

Available at Undandy.

Converse Jack Purcell Signature

Inspired by a Canadian, made by an American, worn all over the world – the Converse Jack Purcell is a modern classic. Updated in recent years to include Nike’s Zoom Air Technology on the footbed, this is one time when multiple cooks make for a better broth.