I’m a Fashion Editor and Shoe Addict–6 Shoe Trends I’m Buying This Spring

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(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen_)

Fashion editor and self-proclaimed shoe addict, definitely a dangerous combination. As a New York City resident, shoes aren’t to be taken lightly. Comfort, versatility, and quality are non-negotiables when it comes to city commuting. As someone who shops for both work and play, I have an ongoing wishlist of footwear trends and links at the ready at all times. 

Since I am on my feet often, picking a comfortable silhouette is key. For spring, I’m eyeing trends that include low heels or flats like retro sneakers, slingback kitten heels, low-height thong heels, and sculptural wedges. But if I do sacrifice for a statement heel (silver heels specifically), it must involve an ankle strap and back strap for extra support. 

Below I’ve highlighted my choice shoes from each of these trending categories. Let the spring shoe shopping commence.

Slingback Kitten Heels

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One of the leading trends of this fall and winter makes an easy transition into spring. Sophisticated slingbacks can be refreshed with bright colors or kept classic with neutral hues all season long.

Heeled Flip Flops

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A minimalist’s dream trend, this simple flip flop silhouette has a chic low heel. An early aughts’ aesthetic can be felt through these barely-there sandals.

Silver Heels

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If I’m agreeing to sacrifice on my "no high heels” rule it will be for these metallic statement shoes. Silver accessories are on every fashion person right now and a shiny shoe is the perfect entryway. 

Wedges

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As seen all over the FW23 runways, the sculptural wedge is continuing to gain traction with the fashion crowd. Interesting shapes and clear materials are freshening this recurring trend. 

Slide Sandals

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This utilitarian trend guarantees all-day comfort. Birkenstock makes the quintessential pair while other designers have taken freedoms on designing chic, elevated slides that can be worn with everything from a sundress to a pajama set.

Colorful Retro Sneakers

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A sneaker trend is always welcome in my closet and these vintage low-top sneakers have proven to be the coolest of the season. Unexpected color combinations and retro silhouettes update any look.

Next: I Found the Chicest Spring Shoes at Zara, H&M, and Mango—They're All Under $100

Copelyn Bengel
Associate Shopping Editor

Copelyn is the associate shopping editor for Who What Wear based in New York City. She writes about fashion and accessory trends in addition to creating original content. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn has also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion and accessory departments on shopping and fashion market. Copelyn has a journalism degree in editing and graphic design from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, Copelyn freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion-and-lifestyle space. She also loves to upcycle clothing and home décor as well as collect an embarrassing number of colorful sneakers and experiment with her hair color.