Every year brings many fascinating new (and old) fashion trends! And as the New Year draws near, we can’t wait to explore the next shoe trends that will blow the industry away.
Some wardrobe staples, like the classic ballet flats, loafers, and sneakers, will continue into the new year, but there will also be some popular emerging trends. If the Spring/Summer 2025 runways are any indicator, 2025 will still see a Y2K fashion resurgence, with lace-up shoes, clogs, peep toes, and vintage sneakers taking center stage on the red carpet and pavement!
Shoe Trends for 2025: Insights and Highlights
The 2025 shoe trends bring an exciting mix of innovation and timeless styles. Drawing from the insights of leading fashion publications, we’ve compiled the most recommended trends to help you stay ahead of the curve. Lace-up shoes and retro sneakers are top contenders, with loafers, heeled flip-flops, and clogs also making strong appearances. Additionally, peep-toe shoes, art nouveau heels, mesh footwear, and pointed-toe slingback pumps highlight the season’s blend of elegance, comfort, and versatility. These trends cater to diverse tastes, offering something for every occasion and personal style.
| Trend | Your Next Shoes | Vogue UK | Who What Wear | Cosmopolitan | Refinery29 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lace-Up Shoes | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Retro Sneakers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Loafers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Heeled Flip-Flops | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Clogs | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Peep-Toe Shoes | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Art Nouveau Heels | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mesh Shoes | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Pointed-Toe Slingback Pumps | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
Sources: This table is based on insights from Vogue UK, Who What Wear, Cosmopolitan, and Refinery29.
We have compiled a list of the top 9 shoe trends we believe will be popular in 2025. You might want to consider them if you’re looking for new shoes.
1. Lace-Up Shoes: The Perfect Blend of Elegance and Comfort
Balletcore may be waning, but a sexier and more romantic take on the delicate genre is expected to gain popularity in 2025. Lace-up sandals, which combine comfort and style, have dominated the runways of Isabel Marant, Ferragamo, and Proenza Schouler.
The laces, which wrap the ankles, can create a customized fit and give the sandal a unique touch while highlighting the foot. I expect tie-up shoes in various styles, such as wedges, heels, and flats.
Although they go well with jeans, I picture lace-up shoes with skirts, shorts, or minidresses during the warmer months!
Lace 201 lace-up espadrille wedges, $60 at Lane 201; Charles and Keith Flor rose-heel strappy sandals, $56 (from $76) at Charles and Keith; Aquazzura Gabi lace-up point-toe flats, $1,060 at Net-a-Porter
2. Retro Sneakers: Timeless Styles with a Modern Twist
Retro sneakers, like the New Balance 574 and Reebok Club C, will continue to be in demand in 2025. Because they are timeless and comfy, these traditional styles appeal to all customer demographics.
This year, I anticipate seeing more retro-inspired shoes and collaborations that will bring back the vivid colors and silhouettes of the past. I’m talking about high-tops and boxing sneakers that we have seen on the runways of fashion brands such as Dior, Miu Miu, and Loewe! I’m also looking forward to high-fashion brands collaborating with sportswear giants!
Whether worn for casual or athletic purposes, retro sneakers will remain a fashion staple for many years.
Miu Miu Plume nappa leather and suede sneakers, $895 at Miu Miu; Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0 in nylon and calfskin, $790 at Loewe; Adidas Originals Japan sneakers, $91 (from $130) at Luisaviaroma
3. Loafers 2025: Elevated Designs for Every Occasion
Because of their unrivaled comfort and timeless appearance, loafers will continue to solidify their place as an all-time favorite in 2025. But these won’t be your typical loafers—consider designs incorporating vibrant colors, textures, mixed-media styles, and prints!
In the upcoming months, expect to see a lot of platform or heeled loafers, ranging from kitten heels to block heels, which will turn the formal shoe into something sexy but classy.
Loafers go well with formal pants and dresses, but they can create a contemporary look when paired with laid-back, jeans and miniskirts.
Loewe Terra suede kitten-heel penny loafers, $1,150 at Bergdorf Goodman; Bottega Veneta Monsieur loafer pumps, $1,250 at Mytheresa; Roger Vivier Summer leather loafers, $1,075 at Net-a-Porter
4. Heeled Flip-Flops: Revamping a ’90s Classic
The resurgence of flip-flops will undoubtedly pique the interest of ’90s kids! However, I’m not referring to rubber flip-flops; rather, I’m talking about modern flip-flops that are both fashionable and comfy.
After dominating the Spring 2025 runways of Chloe, Zimmermann, and other brands, upgraded flip-flops with platforms, heels, and decorative elements and patterns are predicted to take over the streets in 2025 as a more elegant and stylish version of the shoe.
In addition to being comfortable, these updated flip-flops look chic and contemporary. They will look fantastic with everything, from dresses to denim!
Chloe Lou recycled crochet and rubber flip flops, $357 (from $595) at Net-a-Porter; Loewe Paula’s Ibiza Bubble rubber thong sandals, $650 at Mytheresa; The Attico Selene patent-leather platform flip flops, $416.50 (from $595) at Net-a-Porter
5. Clogs Are Back: How to Style This Controversial Trend
Yes, clogs. Not many of you are thrilled about this clunky shoe fad, but clogs are predicted to be quite popular in the upcoming year, whether you like it or not.
Numerous designers and fashion houses, such as Hermes, Chloe, and Burberry, have brought clogs back into style. In 2025, we should expect to see a wider range of clogs, including ones made of different materials and in different styles; think about open-toe clogs, heeled clogs, and wedged clogs.
Although clogs go well with skirts for a classic bohemian style, I prefer to pair them with jeans or shorts for a distinctly contemporary appearance.
Versace Medusa Buckle 60mm leather clogs, $498.75 (from $950) at Saks Fifth Avenue; Chloe Judith studded leather clogs, $665 (from $950) at Mytheresa; Loewe Terra 110mm leather wedge clog, $757 at Farfetch
6. Peep-Toe Shoes: Versatile Styles for Warm-Weather Glam
Though peep-toe shoes are already a common choice for celebrities on the red carpet, they will remain fashionable in 2025.
They are a hallmark of warm-weather fashion, and in 2025, a wider variety of styles—both classic and fresh silhouettes for dressy and casual outfits—are expected to emerge as one of the season’s most popular styles.
I’m excited to see fresh variations on the peep-toe trend, like the ones with triangle peep-toe cutouts at Acne Studios and Alaia or those with sculpted, curved heels at Prada and Miu Miu runways.
Alaia Spike 55 leather peep-toe mules, $1,350 at Mytheresa; Tory Burch cutout pointed-toe pumps, $448 at Nordstrom; Versace embellished mirrored-leather open-toe ballet flats, $555 (from $925) at Net-a-Porter
7. Art Nouveau Heels: Sculptural Designs That Wow
Speaking of sculpted heels, expect to see them not only in peep-toe pumps but also in open-toe sandals, pumps, and other styles!
Art nouveau heels are those unconventional heels that strike the ideal balance between enchanting and practical. Although there have been plenty in past seasons, this year’s selection is expected to be more creative—or strange.
Tory Burch’s curved heels, Bottega Venetta’s sculptural pumps, and Victoria Beckham’s Lucite heels are some of the bizarre yet stylish shoes we’ll see this year!
Alexandre Birman Cacau leather slingback sandals, $695 at Saks Fifth Avenue; Bottega Veneta Knot leather pumps, $1,650 at Mytheresa; Camper Kobarah 85mm slingback sandals, $150 at Farfetch
8. Mesh Shoes: Breezy and Chic Footwear for 2025
Forget about PVC shoes. In 2025, a more breathable alternative will be in style. I’m talking about the controversial mesh shoes. Although just a few celebrities wore them in 2024—including Alexandra Daddario in Khaite Marcy mesh shoes, Julianne Hough in nude mesh pumps, and Lily Collins in Alaia ballet flats—the trend is expected to continue into 2025.
Since fashion houses are constantly developing innovative ways to update the silhouette, we’re more likely to see mesh heels and flats in various colors and styles this year.
I expect it to be huge in the spring and summer, especially with dresses that accentuate the delicate feel of the mesh shoes.
Loewe Petal 45 mesh slingback pumps, $990 at Mytheresa; Loeffler Randall Leonie crystal mesh ballet flats, $275 at Saks Fifth Avenue; Saint Laurent Timothee mesh shoes, $795 at Farfetch
9. Pointed-Toe Slingback Pumps: Sophistication Meets Versatility
Slingback shoes, defined by the strap that wraps the ankles, will likely be popular in 2025. While they are often associated with formal occasions, they will be seen in more casual outfits this year, allowing people to wear them to different events.
2025 slingbacks will have a contemporary, edgy design with pointed toes lending a touch of sophistication to the classic silhouette.
I look forward to pointy slingbacks from Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Prada!
Toteme wedge heel slingback, $528 (from $660) at FWRD; Saint Laurent Cherish leather slingback pumps, $1,250 at Mytheresa; Prada Modellerie pointed-toe slingback pump, $1,200 at Nordstrom