If you’re like me, you probably have enough black, and neutral-colored shoes at this point, so it’s my fashion-editor duty to put some color on your footwear radar. We talk a lot about shoe trends here at Who What Wear, but a more niche subject is shoe color trends. Yes, they’re definitely a thing, and they’re usually in line with the overarching color trends during any given season.
You could say that one of my personality traits is that I’m obsessed with shoes. So, you’re in good hands when it comes to shoe trends. I often scroll through Instagram with the sole purpose of looking for shoes. And now that winter is winding down, the shoe color trends for spring have really revealed themselves. And while the red shoe trend is still going strong, I’m here to talk about the even fresher color trends.
Scroll on for the five biggest shoe color trends of the season, and to shop the best pairs in each colorful category.
There are a few key shoe silhouettes that seemingly every fashion person I know owns (myself included). I’m referring to loafers. It makes sense given the inherently elevated nature of the trend as well as the comfort aspect. Loafers are incredibly versatile and can actually be dressed up or down because of their easy yet polished feel. As a result, style setters wear loafers with basically every type of outfit—from casual ensembles to more dressed-up looks.
To showcase some of the chicest loafer outfits I’ve seen recently, I combed through my Saved folder on Instagram and pulled out standout looks featuring loafers. As you’ll notice, there’s a variety of outfit types coming your way. If you’re in the mood to shop, there are also product recommendations for each ensemble in question.
Feel free to disagree with me, but I find the best thing about spring fashion is the shoes. It’s the prettiest season of the year for shoe trends and a welcome change from boots once the snow and ice melt. This probably has something to do with why designers lean into “prettiness” when dreaming up their shoes for spring. We’re all ready for it. See you in November, brown suede boots!
Given my deep-rooted shoe obsession, I was quite happy to spend a couple of hours scrolling through spring 2024 runway images in search of the prettiest shoes. I spotted a few themes while I was at it, and the below trends I’m highlighting are so pretty and wearable that I’m sure they’ll sell out in a flash. So before that happens, keep scrolling to shop some of the best pairs for each pretty trend. You’ll thank me when the compliments start rolling in.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to deduce why French style is so good, but it does take an expert eye to spot what makes it so good. For one, the people in Paris are always ahead of the curve. Since the greatest minds behind industry-leading houses from Saint Laurent to Valentino are based in Paris, it gives the city, and the whole of Europe, a leg up over us when it comes to what’s new and next. All that is to say whatever the women in Paris are wearing now is what the rest of us in the U.S. will want to wear in a few months’ time.
While we could easily scroll on social media, we went straight to the source to uncover what it is Parisians are reaching for in real time—specifically, which shoe trends they’re into now. We chatted with the admin behind popular street style account @parisians.in.paris, who are always capturing the sneaky snapshots of people all over the City of Light. “The Parisian woman is full of surprises and extremely versatile,” they shared. “This is my favorite aspect of street style in Paris. The same women can go from Uggs to Adidas Sambas to cowboy boots to chunky loafers to knee-high boots or Salomon sneakers.” In other words, Parisian women rarely adhere to the stereotypes of French style—they have range.
Our insider continued to note that each time they spot these shoes, they’re styled very differently, either dressed down or dressed up, at the supermarket or in the office. It’s also about surprising shoe combinations: chunky loafers with baggy jeans, a pair of Sambas with a skirt, or cowboy boots with a sporty look. Ahead, discover the six shoe trends that are running rampant in Paris right now, and shop accordingly if you’re so inspired.
The style set has descended upon Paris for Couture Week. Valentino ambassador Florence Pugh is no doubt gearing up to attend the brand’s show on Wednesday, January 24. (Elie Saab, Jean Paul Gaultier, Viktor&Rolf, and Zuhair Murad are also on the schedule that day.)
Photographed pre-show in Paris, Pugh wore a casual outfit consisting of a zip-up sweatshirt, miniskirt, oversize Valentino sunglasses, and peep-toe boots. It was her choice of shoes that immediately piqued my interest. Peep-toe boots had their heyday in the early 2000s and 2010s, but they haven’t been quite as popular lately. Did Florence Pugh just convince me to try them again? Yes, yes, she did. Scroll down to see how she styled them in the French capital and shop pairs for yourself.
There comes a time in almost every fashion item’s lifespan when the hype around it starts to wane. That doesn’t in any way, shape, or form mean that said praise will never return, but it does probably signify the need to store those afflicted pieces away for a while to make room for their replacements. Nowhere are trends cycling as quickly and significantly right now than footwear, a space where, in 2024, new buzzy colors, shapes, and specific shoe styles dethrone their formerly on-top foes on a near-daily basis.
As sad as it can be to wave goodbye to the shoes in your collection that accompanied you on many a 10,000-step walk, subway-stair climb, and worldly vacation, it has to be done. But don’t worry—2024’s footwear offering is nothing to scoff at. Once you see the six “in” styles below, I’m sure any residual sorrow will quickly be replaced with feelings of elation.
As a trend-forward editor, I go through shoes much faster than I care to admit. With every new season and the thousands of steps I put in daily while living in New York City, it’s important that my shoes are cute and comfortable, but they also need to be affordable enough to switch out when they start to wear out. Enter Charles & Keith.
If you haven’t heard of the Singapore-based footwear and accessory brand, let me introduce you. With ultra-chic styles—including ballet flats, loafers, mules, boots, and heels—clocking in well under $100, Charles & Keith is the go-to sneaky brand for fashion people. Our editor in chief, Kat Collings, even wore a pair to Paris Fashion Week last year. If that isn’t enough of an indication to get on board, I don’t know what is.
Whether you’re bopping around the busy streets of NYC or jet-setting to Paris, fashion people have been embracing a handful of particular shoe trends. Yes, I’m talking about everyone from your favorite TikTok influencer to your stylish neighbor. All of the style-minded folks are donning a similar set of popular shoe trends. The styles in question are not only versatile, but they also lend themselves to mixing and matching seamlessly with an endless number of cool looks. Since I believe in spreading the love, I’ve listed out these trends in question and exactly where you can buy them.
Nordstrom is the ultimate one-stop shop for virtually any fashion need, and we editors at WWW can’t get enough of the retailer’s robust offerings. I’ve dug through the virtual aisles to find an array of Nordstrom’s best shoe-shopping options so you, dear reader, can tap into these popular shoe trends as well. From sneakers to flats, there’s something ahead to cater to just about anyone’s style sensibilities. Keep scrolling to uncover your soon-to-be favorite pair of shoes.
Ballet flats are one of those very special shoe styles that are always around but enter the spotlight in more noteworthy ways from time to time. Yes, that time happens to be right now. The pretty silhouette has been a fixture on the runways (ahem, Miu Miu) and is a go-to for celebs and fashion people.
The beauty of ballet flats is that you can wear them with a range of outfits because they’re quite versatile. Baggy jeans are a popular pairing, but so are trusty black leggings. The silhouette brings an elegant and extra-chic element to a legging outfit, whether it’s a more dressed-up or low-key ensemble.
Below, you’ll see how fashion people are wearing ballet flats and leggings. There’s also an edit of the best flats and leggings to shop now if that’s of interest. Go on for more.
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Have you been looking to upgrade your wardrobe this year? Old money shoes are the place to start.
You may have heard the term “old money” before. But, if you have never shopped this trend before, you may be wondering what exactly it entails.
There’s an old money shoe style for everyone. Winter mood? Think chic riding boots. Feeling more of a sun-kissed vibe? Leather sandals or ballet flats have got you covered.
To help you visualize, I have compiled a list of the 20 best old-money shoes that will give your closet a sophisticated vibe!
Best Old Money Shoes
1. Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are perfect if you want comfortable shoes to wear for professional or fancy occasions.
Ballet flats will go perfectly with any work outfit. You can also wear them if you are going to a fancy dinner or event.
You can even add them to your everyday looks. They’re especially trendy with wide- or straight-leg jeans this year.
2. Riding Boots
If you live somewhere cold or if you just want some classic boots for your outfits, you need some riding boots!
Riding boots are an old-money staple thanks to their equestrian connection. But even if you don’t ride horses, you’ll look amazing in these boots.
Pair them with everything from straight-leg jeans to mini skirts and tights for an old money vibe.
3. Heeled Loafers
Loafers are always popular shoes, but this season, you can get a trendy old money vibe with high-heeled loafers.
Heeled loafers like these cream ones will make any outfit look chic and fancy.
Bonus points if you pair them with a monochromatic cream look for an extra expensive feel!
4. Strappy Heels
Strappy heels are another great old money shoe for fancier events.
The whole idea of old money is something simple, well-made, and not showy. These minimal heels in a low height are a perfect fit for the vibe.
These are so classic that you’ll wear them for decades to come, and they’ll always be in style.
5. Loafer Slides
Loafer slides are a great option if you want a shoe that’s less basic than a loafer but still classic.
You will be able to wear these shoes for everyday activities while still giving off that chic and sophisticated vibe that you are going for!
And did I mention the comfort factor? Loafer slides feel like you’re wearing slippers every day.
6. Boat Shoes
Boat shoes are another common type of shoe that gives off an old-money feel.
You have probably seen men’s boat shoes before, but women’s boat shoes are trending more and more these days.
The boat shoes above are suede, so not exactly practical for nautical adventures, however if you love the look and want something chic for your work or casual looks, these are the shoes for you.
7. Leather Slide Sandals
The famous Hermes Oran Sandals are a hallmark of the old money aesthetic, but you don’t have to spend upwards of $700 to get the look!
This style of sandal is now available at every price point and in every color imaginable.
I particularly love these white ones, which will look so chic with a linen dress or trousers!
8. Kitten Heel
Say you are going to a professional event or a fancy event, but you don’t want to rock a super high heel.
If you want an old-money vibe, you should go for a kitten heel.
Black pointed-toe kitten heels like these will be a staple in your wardrobe, and you can use them to dress up any casual look while still staying comfy.
9. Chelsea Boots
If you’re looking for the perfect mid-calf boots to wear with our everyday outfits, try these Chelsea boots!
Chelsea boots come in a million colors and styles these days, but for an old money feel, go for a sleek style with minimal detailing.
These black and brown Chelsea boots from Sam Edelman are super classic while also having a slightly trendy chunky heel.
10. Minimal Strappy Sandals
Another old money shoe option for the summer months is a strappy, minimal sandal like this one!
Strappy sandals are always in style and will go with basically any outfit for your everyday looks.
Just make sure to prioritize quality materials like leather and, once again, minimal detailing. Simple is best!
If you want to spice up your strappy sandals, choose a pair in a bold color like these coral ones.
11. Slingback Heel
If you are a fan of kitten heels, then you might also like these slingback heels.
Slingback heels have a fancy vibe that’s one part ’90s businesswoman, one part modern fashion girl.
If you are going to a fancy event, you could pair these shoes with a cute dress or pants to create a chic look.
12. Cap-Toe Pumps
Another common old money-inspired shoe is the cap-toe shoe!
In case you aren’t familiar, cap toe refers to when the tip of the shoe is a different color than the rest, as seen on these heels.
Cap-toe shoes oftentimes come in a ballet flat style (Chanel’s flats are a favorite of the old money set), but we like the heel version for a bit of added interest.
13. Classic Loafers
Loafers are also classic “old money” style shoes that you can use for lots of different outfits.
And, if you want something a little trendier that still has old money vibes, go for these chunky loafers.
Loafers will give you the sophisticated look that you want for your everyday outfits, while a chunky loafer will make you look very of-the-moment.
14. Slingback Ballet Flat
If you like ballet flats but want something more fun to pair with your fancy outfits, I suggest going for a slingback ballet flat!
A slingback ballet flat will add a sophisticated look to your outfits while also making them stand out a bit more.
Everybody loves a good ballet flat, but these slingback ballet flats have a dressier vibe that you’ll love.
15. Espadrilles
If you like to wear comfy shoes in the summer months but want something fancier than flat sandals, look no further than the Espadrille.
These are my favorite types of old money summer shoes because they look adorable with almost any outfit and are so comfy for everyday activities.
So, with these sandals, you will have an adorable and chic shoe to add to any everyday outfit to complete your look!
16. Pointed Heel
If you are dressing for something very fancy, you may be trying to find the perfect heel to complete your chic outfits.
If so, then you should consider a classy pointed-toe heel.
There is something about a pointed heel that always makes it look super classy and chic.
And, with these heels, you will be getting a beige and silver color combo that will also add to the elegant look of the heels.
These shoes are a great old money-inspired option for your next ultra-fancy event.
17. Heeled Ankle Boots
While stiletto heels might not be what you associate with the old money aesthetic, a sleek pair of boots with minimal detailing checks many old money boxes.
If you like high heels but want something a little bit classier and old-money-inspired, go for these sleek Michael Kors boots in white.
Again, rock them with a white or cream monochrome outfit for an expensive feel.
18. Driving Loafer
If you want comfy and casual shoes for everyday outfits, you should consider a pair of driving loafers.
These shoes, which are a more casual take on the classic loafer, will be perfect if you’re looking for something comfy to rock with your favorite jeans to class or a casual office.
19. Knee-High Heeled Boots
If you are a fan of boots, you may also be interested in adding knee-high boots to your chic outfits!
Knee-high heeled boots will give you that old-money elegant look that you are going for (think Taylor Swift vibes) and will look great when paired with jeans or even a cute skirt or mini dress.
20. Mary Jane Pump
One of my favorite trendy yet old money-inspired shoes is the Mary Jane pump!
You have probably seen Mary Janes before, but you may not have seen them with a heel.
Mary Jane pumps like these look adorable when added to any outfit and will definitely give you the cute and preppy look that you are going for.
Which of these old money shoes will you be adding to your wardrobe?
What shoes do you like to wear with your chic outfits? Which shoes from this list are your favorite?
In its report on Q3 2023, Lyst not only named Tory Burch as a rising brand to watch with a 15% spike in searches for the quarter, but also narrowed in on the one item largely responsible for all the newfound hype: its pierced mules, which made the top-10 list of the hottest products, alongside heavy-hitters like Miu Miu and Loewe. For those uninitiated in the language of “new Tory”, the mules are part of a series of shoes that all have the same notorious hardware which gives off the illusion that the shoe is pierced with a segment ring near the toe.
The first of these pierced shoes came in the form of slingback flats and flat mules and they debuted on the spring/summer 2023 runway, the collection that’s widely regarded as marking the beginning of Burch’s new aesthetic. Since then, a pair of slingback pumps have joined the ranks and the latest update is anticipated in the spring 2024 lineup to be launching in the coming months. Already, fashion insiders are clamoring to get their hands on a pair—at least two Who What Wear editors already have—and making what’s left of the first pairs nearly sell out.
With the forthcoming 2024 iterations, it seems like the perfect time to highlight the It style because it’s clearly only growing in interest and attention. Ahead, we’ve charted the course of the Tory Burch pierced shoes from their runway debuts to the current-season market. Discover fashion’s most-wanted footwear of the moment, and then shop the pairs that are magically still available (for now, that is).
Sorry to all you flats lovers who experienced pure joy in 2023 when styles of the ballet and Mary Jane variety were all anyone wanted to wear. Heels are slowly but surely making a comeback, and now that one particular ’90s style has been spotted on Florence Pugh, I have no doubt that its arrival on the 2024 charts will be a splashy one.
On the day after the Golden Globes—where Pugh wore a custom red Valentino gown and Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co. jewelry—the Dune actress was spotted in West Hollywood after a shopping trip at Fred Segal. For the bit of retail therapy, Pugh wore all black, including a bomber jacket, straight-leg jeans, cat-eye sunglasses, and a chic pair of point-toe stiletto boots à la the ones that so many off-duty models and actresses wore nonstop in the ’90s. But she’s not the only one who’s been donning the growing boot trend. From Hailey Bieber to Kendall Jenner, A-listers aren’t shying away from tall, skinny-heeled boots for the year ahead.
While the winter weather keeps your flats away in storage, snag a pair of stiletto boots below to replace them (for now), and while you’re at it, check out Pugh’s shopping-day ‘fit.
We’re no more than mere days into 2024, and already, the year’s first footwear phenomenon has taken hold, commanding over Instagram and single-handedly ushering in a very chic but slightly uncomfortable 366 days. Its name is Lee. Crafted by Saint Laurent’s creative director since 2016, Anthony Vaccarello, the Lee is a 4.25-inch geometric stiletto with a heel that’s varnished in the same color of the exaggerated buckle that fastens its patent-leather slingback straps to the rest of the shoes. Some variations are available with a black heel if too much gold isn’t your thing. Available in six colorways, the style made its debut at the French house’s fall/winter 2023 show alongside ’80s-inspiredcorporate ensembles fit for the office siren, and now that its shoppable, fashion’s elite, including Laura Harrier and Hailey Bieber, can’t seem to get enough.
Scrolling through my Instagram feed over the last few days, I’ve noticed the vampy stilettos on a near-constant basis, often styled alongside other pieces from the fall collection, including pencil skirts, sheer and low-cut tank tops, and shoulder-padded oversize blazers. Hosiery is a must with these, and extra-sheer tights are the primary pick for most of the wearers I’ve seen. According to Vogue, the goal of Vaccarello’s collection was to hit on the concept of elegance and “being dressed.” There was a time not long ago when putting on a pencil skirt, stockings, and heels this sky-high would’ve sent a shutter down most of our spines. That’s no longer the case, though, and 2024’s early obsession with the Lee silhouette is further proof that comfort is no longer king. This year, a “look at me” outfit will reign supreme over one that satisfies your sense of touch and feel. I love my trusty Uggs, too, but they just don’t show off like the Lees will.
Scroll down to learn all about the first viral shoes of 2024.
I know the term “controversial” is often bandied about in the fashion space, but this time, I mean it seriously. Wedge boots truly are a polarizing topic among fashion lovers. Are they cool? Are they “out”? Well, if Kate Hudson has anything to say about it, the trend has some serious legs.
Photographed leaving Today in New York City this week, Hudson pulled off the contentious shoe trend with ease. She styled her wedge boots with a fantastic Marni coat that’s giving me major Penny Lane vibes. She finished the look with a striped Gucci sweater and a printed Etro bag. Scroll down to see how Kate Hudson styled wedge boots and shop the shoe trend for yourself.
There’s a cute new couple in town: Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco. After confirming (and speaking highly of) her relationship on social media, Selena Gomez just made it publicly official for the first time by attending a Lakers game with her new boyfriend. How sweet do they look together?
For date night in Los Angeles, Gomez wore a Ronny Kobo Baylor Coat ($898) along with a major 2024 shoe trend: silver boots. Not to toot my own horn, but we have been waxing poetic on the silver shoe trend for some time now, so it’s no surprise to see Selena Gomez test-drive the trend. Scroll down to see what she wore to the basketball game with her new beau and shop our favorite silver boots.
I’ll give you five seconds to name the first shoe that comes to mind when you think of winter. Was it Uggs? What about ski boots? Come cold weather, the shoes that first come to mind are those that are durable, practical, and cozy. But I’m here to tell you this winter, my favorite shoe trends to know put practicality at play with style. Unlike painful or impractical trends of the past, these comfortable shoes are among my favorites. As someone who much prefers warm weather to cold temps, I think of these four styles as the summer person’s winter footwear starter pack. They embody the ease of Birkenstocks or block-heeled sandals but keep the toes covered and can be layered with a pair of cashmere socks when the occasion calls for it.
One thing I do love about dressing during winter is how easy it is to play with textures and layer in ways that make outfits feel thoughtful and complex. Within each of the four shoe trends I’m highlighting as worth your while for winter, I wanted to show versatility with a range of materials and colors. Think velvet Mary Janes, a decidedly indoor shoe style that I want to break out for a holiday dinner, or weather-resistant sneakers in a shocking green hue that make even the gloomiest rainy day feel brighter. Whether you’re more of a minimalist or your cold-weather style is sporty, there’s a shoe for you to enjoy.
At 5’11, Taylor Swift already towers above many of us, but despite that, all of her favorite shoe trends are heels. She looks great in heels, so it makes sense. Much to the delight of all the Swifties out there, she’s been out and about a lot this year, with photographers following her every outfit. As an editor who covers lots of celebrity style, I don’t think I’ve missed a Taylor Swift outfit yet this year, and I’ve been looking for themes.
Swift has changed her personal style off and on over the years, but when she’s in an “era”, she really stays true to that aesthetic. I don’t personally know Swift (unfortunately), but I do think that she’s really stayed true to herself this year, and worn what she loves and feels comfortable in. On that note, I’ve noticed that for the most part, she sticks to a handful of shoe trends when she’s out in the world, and I’m here to do my due diligence and talk about them.
With that, scroll on for the five shoe trends Swift wears constantly, and shop the best pairs if she’s inspired you to dress like her.
As a fashion editor, there is something so fun and satisfying about seeing a trend start to percolate and then, over the course of some seasons, really start to take hold. Such is the case with the growing mesh-flats trend. For some time, The Row was the leader in the space with its highly coveted Mesh Sock Flats. The cool, minimal flats have been spotted on many in the fashion crowd.
One of the many perks of the see-through style becoming more and more popular is that a lot more options are available at every price point. Another is that mesh flats go great with everything from dresses to jeans. Keep scrolling to see 33 of the most stylish mesh flats to shop now in a variety of styles (embellished, slingback, mules, and more), plus some outfit inspiration on how to wear them. I highly recommend that you act quickly when you spot a pair you love since these styles have been selling out fast.
When it comes to shoe trends, Jennifer Lopez is no shrinking violet. For her, the bolder and trendier, the better. So if you want to know what styles are next up before everyone else does, her feet are a good place to look. Yesterday, while out shopping in Beverly Hills, Lopez wore a shoe color trend that’s on the horizon, thanks to the Gucci S/S 24 runway.
For his first collection as Gucci’s creative director, Sabato De Sarno leaned heavily into shades of burgundy (coined Gucci Rosso), especially in the form of shoes and accessories. Ever since the collection debuted in September, people have been touting it as the next It color. Lopez’s stiletto ankle boots aren’t Gucci, but they’re right in step with the emerging color trend. And she even matched her sunglasses and Dior bag to the hue.
Keep scrolling to see how Lopez styled her burgundy boots and shop the emerging shoe color trend for yourself.
Given our editors’ history with shoes, it would be the understatement of the century to say that we know how to shop for them. Boots, heels, ballet flats, and loafers are our vices, so when we’re browsing the Nordstrom new arrivals section, it’s imperative to shop smart, meaning it’s time to check the “price: low to high” box.
Just ahead of the holidays, Nordstrom unleashed a ton of chic, affordable shoes, from runway-ready slingbacks to classic, minimalist loafers. Scroll below to see the best new shoes under $150 available at Nordstrom.
