Of course, there were plenty of reimagined spring and summer mainstays, like laidback loafers, strappy sandals, raffia mules, and slim fashion flip flops that make everyday a beach day.
But this is a spring shoe trend report after all, and to fuel your wardrobe’s imagination, you’ll find dazzling embellished pieces for special occasions; razor-sharp styles that leave their mark in the C-suite, and oh-so-romantic pumps to fall head over heels for. Discover, and shop, our full edit of the key spring 2024 shoe trends, below.
Minimalist Glove Flats
We’ve been writing about non-shoe shoes for a few seasons now; the Row’s (now bestselling) mesh flats first debuted in 2019. But it’s not until this season that the minimalist silhouette seems to have earned mass appeal. An unobtrusive choice beloved by editors and celebrities alike, Toteme, Everlane, Aeyde, and Staud all bring the style to life at accessible price points.
Laidback Loafers
Even the loafer likes to take it easy in the warmer months! Follow suit by trading in your structured leather pairs for more relaxed options that’ll transport you (even if only mentally) from the F1 race track to the marina and back again. Styles to note are the suede moccasins, driving loafers, and purposefully worn-in boat shoes from Miu Miu, Aeyde, Massimo Dutti, and more.
Cool Trainers
Practicality with a fashion twist reigned supreme on the runways, from Miu Miu to Dries Van Noten and Stella McCartney—all who of presented elevated takes on the sporty sneaker. It’s an easy shoe trend to buy into, not to mention one you’ll get endless mileage out of. Styling tip: Opt for a suede retro runner (bonus points for leather trims) and pair with patterned socks for a surprise ankle reveal when sitting cross-legged.
White Out
Feel free to color outside the lines—white footwear, as seen at Khaite, Valentino, and Tory Burch, is the ultimate blank canvas. Go minimalist by pairing a slingback with soft pastels or lean into a maximalist moment with bold color and print. Either way, a bright white shoe lets you punctuate an outfit without overpowering the ensemble.
Strappy Heels
A spring essential, the season’s most coveted heeled sandals have a minimalist, ’90s feel. Asymmetric straps defined the silhouette, whether via an exposed big toe (Khaite), parting middle line (Jil Sander) or twisted braiding (Ferragamo). Bring these into your early spring rotation by pairing them with sheer socks in a matching tone, or colored tights for contrast.
Beyond the Ballerina
This isn’t coquette, soft girl, or balletcore. What is it then, you ask? Candy for grownups! The vibe here is a ladylike shoe that’s sweet but not saccharine, with just the right amount of charming detail—a gathered rose (Givenchy), a tiny bow (Balenciaga), a trailing ribbon (Erdem)—in variations of romantic pink. Turn to Reformation for an equally charming high-street interpretation of the runway trend.
Fashion Flip Flops
Everyday is a beach day! At least, it can be. We can’t guarantee any ankle support in these flip flops, but when paired with a great white dress or a relaxed trouser, it looks every bit effortless yet intentional (and not like you’re rushing home after a pedicure). Forgo the platform sole of yore in lieu of a thin one; the thickness of the strap to be determined by your destination. A wider one like Proenza Schouler’s might feel better suited for a summer-in-the-city rendezvous, while a barely-there style à la Chanel feels apropos for a South of France PTO.
Au Natural
Designers sure had vacation on their mind when dreaming up these shoes, putting warm weather-friendly fabrics like raffia and crochet at the fore. Styles from JW Anderson and Bottega Veneta can be had straight off the runway, while designs from Staud and St.Agni capture summer’s carefree attitude on their own terms.
Stacked Platforms
Talk about a trend that raises the bar. A nod to the boho revival we’re also seeing in the fall/winter 2024 collections, these chunky heeled sandals offer a semi-walkable height boost for those who dare. There are both vintage-inspired and contemporary takes, from Saint Laurent’s classic canvas and wood pair to Loewe’s asymmetric style.
Everyday Embellishments
The holiday season may feel like a distant dream now, but festive footwear remains present—you can thank the crystal fringe and jewel-encrusted creations from Gucci, Loewe, and Chanel for that. Bring a similar sensibility to your rotation with your choice of ballet flats for daytime or decorated wedges for a wedding RSVP.
Pumps That Mean Business
From the knife-edge heel to the razor-sharp tip, all signs point to one thing: The business pump has reclaimed its seat at the table. You might already have a black pair in your closet, so skip the neutral and opt for a power hue instead. Icy blue, red, and cream all make up the minimalist’s new color palette.
Going Green
Olive, mint, pistachio—designers served up a healthy dose of greens! The most coveted runway pairs include Ferragamo’s buckled mules, Gucci’s platform loafers, and Prada’s sultry satin pumps. If you prefer a flat option for everyday, Dries Van Noten has an excellent suede trainer that’s both practical and attention-grabbing, while Vibi Venezia’s classic Mary Jane comes in a delectable, gelato-inspired pistaccio shade. A tavola, ragazzi!