Where "ugly" shoes go, fashion people usually follow. While the stylish crowd has been experiencing a laid-back, minimalist aesthetic craving within the last year and a half courtesy of the popularity of The Row, Sabato de Sarno's new Gucci, and all things quiet luxury, there's one thing that you can't stop editors, stylists, and fashion people from buying: weird (and sometimes uncomfortable) shoes.
While you'd think gravity-defying pumps and see-through ballet flats wouldn't be at the top of everyone's wish-list in 2024, those controversial shoe styles (including a few others) are already sitting high up when it comes to the best spring 2024 trends. From Instagram-viral fishnet shoes to grandma-esque ballet slippers, these 6 controversial shoe trends are the ones you need to know heading into the rest of the year. Love them or hate them— either way, you'll see them everywhere.
Mesh Ballet Flats
For some people, the idea of having your toes out and awkward tan lines isn't the most visually appealing when it comes to an outfit, but given the popularity of mesh flats over the last few months, some fashion people are fully on-board. After Alaïa's netted Mary-Jane style went viral last summer, everyone has been clamoring to get a pair. Whether you're into them or not, mesh flats are clearly here to stay. After owning a pair myself, I have to admit that they're much more wearable than you'd think.
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Patent Shoes
If you're anything like me, you might shy away from anything that feels too dated. Thankfully, like all fashion, trends are cyclical and what once was out is now in. Enter patent-leather shoes. While they may be a bit harder to style, these ultra-shiny soles are some of the most lusted-after this year, from slingbacks to loafers.
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Furry Bits
Keep your feet warm this winter with one of the most controversial footwear trends of the last five years: furry shoes. Whether they're sherpa-lined or embedded with fur, these head-turning heels aren't for the faint of heart (and when you pull them off right, there's nothing you can't wear). Opt for shoes with fur details if you're looking for a more subdued visual, or if you're eager to make a statement, fur-covered shoes might just be your calling.
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Zero-Gravity Heels
This year's hottest shoe trend? Heels that look like you can't walk in them. Gravity-defying heels might look like they're an orthopedic surgery consultation waiting to happen, but after seeing the jaw-dropping style on both the Tory Burch and Ferragamo runways, I'm sold.
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Satin Soles
Another dated-looking texture fashion people can't seem to have enough of this year? Satin shoes. These aren't your grandma's satin mules, though—the ultra-silky style has been a crowdpleaser among fans of Sandy Liang and Prada given the styles' delicate look.
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Multi-Strap Silhouttes
Remember when I said fashion people don't shy away from awkward foot tan lines in the name of style? Another iteration that they're slipping on, time after time, this year: extra-strappy ballet flats and slingbacks. After Miu Miu's multistrap shoes went viral during the brand's librarian-core Fall/Winter 2023, brands have been adding extra bells, whistles, and leather straps wherever possible to their shoe styles. I'm a fan.
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