Who among us doesn’t have a thing for shoes? We’ve been taking notes and making predictions about which shoe trends would dominate the coming months since the fall’s New York Fashion Week. What lies ahead is a mix of the whimsical and the rustic, the nostalgic and the futuristic. Prepare for chic cowboy boots and couture clogs. From models on catwalks to It Girls on crosswalks, trendsetters all over the world are convincing us that rent must somehow pay for itself because I might die without those Mary Janes. Read on to learn about the shoe trends you’ll see everywhere in spring 2023.
Metallic
From winter fashion to bag trends for spring 2023, the current landscape is all about standing out. We’re ready to be seen in 2023, honey. Sneakers are great for the airport, and neutrals are great for painting walls, but what about the shoes you wear out? It’s time to make your voice heard. According to Khaite, LaQuan Smith, and Victor Glemaud, the only statement worth making is one that shines.
Mary Janes
The Gemini of shoes is Mary Jane. That is, it is a two-sided style. Mary Janes appear feminine—even coquettish—at first glance. When you look closely, you’ll notice that the strapped silhouette is actually quite versatile. There’s something for everyone, from flat-soled shoes and funky sneakers to stilettos and sandals.
Elevated Cowboy Boots
Paging Captain Obvious: If you left the house at all last year, you probably saw this trend at least once or twice. The western boot craze isn’t going away any time soon. Even if you don’t consider yourself a down-home broad, this look is undeniably appealing to all. It can also be done subtly, so don’t be concerned about being mistaken for a rancher. Take a look at Ganni’s spin. (You know it’s cool when it’s on the Ganni runway.) Cowgirl couture is here to stay, y’all.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are by far the most notable shoe trend right now. If you thought Blair Waldorf was the last of these, you were mistaken. Flats were everywhere for spring/summer 2023 showings between New York and Copenhagen fashion weeks. They laid the groundwork for subsequent looks at Remain, Foo and Foo, Coach, Dauphinette, and Victor Glemaud. Tory Burch’s shows are obviously incomplete without the designer’s iconic slippers. Sandy Liang also got in on the flat action. After wearing boots and wool socks all winter, a simple pair of slip-ons may be just what you need.
Slouchy Boots
Slouchy boots are back in style, just like that. Doesn’t it seem like it happened overnight? Well-dressed women everywhere are suddenly walking tall in slouching shoes. This trend will be your best friend in early spring when everyone is transitioning out of the cold winter months but you aren’t quite ready for open-toe sandals.
Pointed Toe
Toes that are rounded? I’ve been there and done that. Square? Eh. Your style is sharp, and so should your toebox. Take this season’s other shoe trends, like Tory Burch flats, western boots, or lace-up styles, and narrow it down (literally) to pointed-toe options for truly on-trend footwear. Okay, I’ll stop now, but Christian Siriano, Prabal Gurung, and Victor Glemaud are among the designers who are making a case for pointed toes this spring.
Soccer Shoes
The jury is still out on whether we can blame this trend on Bella Hadid or Harry Styles (pick your battle! ), but I’m not complaining. If you’re sick of your Air Force 1s or can’t get that grass stain out of your Supergas, try a sportier style to satisfy your trainer needs. And if you’re looking for information on where to buy Adidas Sambas, we’ve got you covered.
Lace-Up
Remember those knee-high wrap-around gladiator sandals from your childhood? This season, a shocking number of shows gave the style a chic upgrade. Traditional sandals, disco platforms, and Prabal Gurung pumps were all on display. They may require more effort to fasten than a single ankle strap or slip-on loafer, but the look is worth it. She repays.
Clogs
These aren’t your grandfather’s Merrells, nor are they your run-of-the-mill Birkenstock Bostons or Crocs—though we love those too. No, we’re referring to clogs. Allow the enviable variety from Simon Miller or Fendi’s funky renditions to persuade you that this shoe deserves a spotlight. Comfort, orthotic support, and high fashion collide? This is where I’ll be spending the spring.
