The results are in, and according to fresh data from trend-tracking platform Slingo, the designer shoes dominating summer 2025 are equal parts fashion-forward and internet-breaking. Taking the top spot? Balenciaga’s ultra-chunky 3XL sneakers, which racked up a staggering 900,500 global searches in the past year—nearly 10 times that of the next most-searched pair. If it seems like you're seeing them everywhere right now, it’s because you are: They also lead in social media traction, with over 5000 hashtags to their name.
But Balenciaga isn’t the only name ranking in popularity. The Row’s Fisherman Sandals saw a jaw-dropping 120% increase in interest, proving that minimalist, wearable luxury still has a serious grip on the fashion crowd. Meanwhile, Wales Bonner’s cult Adidas Sambas may have dipped in recent searches, but their annual numbers remain strong—over 21,000 global searches and hundreds of hashtags continue to keep them relevant in the sneaker space. For the girls who love a subtle flex, Gucci’s Horsebit Platform Loafers and Saint Laurent’s Cassandra Sandals tie at number four, offering timeless silhouettes with just enough edge to feel current.
Quiet luxury may be trending, but satin, lace-up sandals, and mules aren’t going anywhere either. Prada’s Satin Mules, Aeyde’s Paige Sandals, and Maison Margiela’s Salomon Mules make up the middle of the list, with each showing major surges in attention and boasting that niche designer appeal fashion insiders love. And if you’re after a sleeper hit? Burberry’s Clogs and Loewe’s Petal Sandals may not have the search volume of the chart-toppers, but they each had explosive growth this season—Loewe’s pair alone saw a 180% spike.
In short: If you’re looking to invest in a pair of designer shoes that are not only stylish but statistically dominating the conversation, consider this your cheat sheet. From buzzy collabs to reimagined classics, these are the shoes actually making waves in real time—and this summer, the data don’t lie.
Shop these popular designer styles plus more of our favorite shoes for summer 2025 below.
The classic black-and-silver sneaker combo.
Snag these while they are still on sale.
Olsen-approved leather sandals.
The white is so chic.
This suede option makes for a great summer and fall sneaker.
If you're looking for a more classic Adidas vibe.
We love a pop of color.
Style these with baggy jeans or a cute summer dress.
Simple and timeless.
You'll get so much wear out of these leather sandals.
We had to include this stylish leopard option.
Yes, it's still giving Brat summer.
Perfect for every formal occasion.
Another popular style to shop while they are still on sale.
Are slide-on sneakers for you?
An all-white option to wear to and from all your workout classes.
These will never go out of style.
If you're looking for a more feminine touch.
You can't go wrong with these heeled sandals.
Pack these on every vacation to come.
Shop more of our favorite shoes for summer
Yes, the jelly shoe trend is still going strong.
We love this chic suede mule.
Pair these denim mules with jeans or a sleek black miniskirt.
To wear to the beach and beyond.
We love this green option.
The toe-ring trend is also popular this summer.
Who doesn't love a little sparkle?
A warm-weather shoe staple.
Red hot and so on-trend.
And a simple pair of ballet flats to take you into fall.
-
People With Impeccable Taste Swear By COS—21 Chic Sale Finds to Take Advantage of Right Now25% off? Yes, please.
-
The 6 Shoe Trends Well-Dressed People Are Wearing With Pants and Jeans (Instead of Sneakers)Flat and heels to pair with pants and jeans.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your BuckStellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
Say Goodbye to Kitten Heels—This Even-Shorter Shoe Is Suddenly Showing Up in Every Fashion Person's ClosetIt has just the right amount of height to make you stand a little taller.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
-
Here's What to Look For If You Want Ballet Flats That Scream 2026If you haven't upgraded your ballet flats by now, wyd?
-
Every Major Handbag Trend That Will Take Over in Fall 2025A report on the key styles to know.
-
Ballet Flats Look Downright Dated in the Face of These 7 New Flat-Shoe TrendsSomeone had to say it.
