With winter fast approaching and the temperature dropping by the day, every time I pull out what was once a fail-safe capsule-wardrobe outfit, one question always pops into my head: Do these shoes work with this outfit right now?
Now, let me be frank. Despite being a fashion editor who loves to witness trends come to fruition, I’m not one to subscribe to the "dated" shoe trend spiel. I truly believe that when you invest well, your shoes should transition with you through the years. But having worn down my favourite trainers past the point of no return and broken the heel of my go-to boots, this season, I’m in the market to invest in one or two new pairs of winter shoes myself. But with so many expensive-looking options on the market, which to go for?
From the autumn/ winter 2025 runways, where we saw the meteoric rise of snake-print boots to some of the coolest collaborations of late (Nike X Jacquemus, I’m looking at you!), London's eclectic streets have been filled with a plethora of enviable shoes, each vying for our attention. In particular, the ever-popular Dries Van Noten slimline retro trainers and the UGG Zora (which debuted at Talia Brye's spring/summer 2026 runway show) come to mind. This season, it feels like there's no shortage of cold-weather footwear to choose from, each with the power to elevate every winter outfit with ease.
With so many practical options out there, I did what I always do when faced with a fashion conundrum and took a deep dive into my social feeds, looking at how London's best-dressed were styling this season’s shoe trends. To my surprise (and delight), I found plenty of inspiration. From cosy shearling-lined boots that are perfect for frosty days, to sleek, low-profile trainers which will take you from your commute to post-work drinks with ease, the list of shoe trends perfect for the season ahead is endless, and I have a feeling that my ever-burning question will be silenced, for this season at least!
Below, discover the nine London-based shoe trends worth investing in this season.
9 Stylish Shoe Trends Londoners Are Wearing This Winter
1. Brown Suede
Style Notes: It goes without saying that when you pair the colour and fabric of the season (brown suede), you get a shoe trend that will work hard year after year. Subtle yet impactful, these luxe-looking styles ooze a versatility that will rival your capsule-wardrobe neutrals. Just don't forget your suede protectant!
Shop Brown Suede Shoes:
I'd be quick, because the viral M&S penny loafers are back in a full size range.
I've seen so many riding boots styled with leggings already this winter.
These brown suede ballet flats look far more expensive than their affordable price tag.
Not a boot, not a loafer: the Gucci Horsebit boot's elevated design has already caught the eye of so many of my favourite fashion people.
You know the drill: when it comes to slingbacks, it's hard to overlook this legendary pair.
2. Slim, '70s-Style Sneakers
Style Notes: If you’re an avid Who What Wear UK reader, you’ll know that slimline, retro trainers are one winter shoe trend we’re heavily subscribing to. From the IYKYK Dries Van Noten trainers, which have a distinct ‘70s edge, to the sleek COS iteration, the fashion people on my socials can't get enough, proving that they’re just as impactful as a boot or loafer.
Shop Slim, '70s-Style Sneakers:
I recently tried on these trainers and can attest that they're as good as they look.
These really help elevate baggy jeans.
Available in 12 colourways, you're sure to find a pair to fit your aesthetic.
I can't believe how expensive these M&S trainers look.
These trainers have fast become one of the most sought-after collabs between a sportswear brand and a designer label.
3. Square-Toe Boots
Style Notes: The perfect all-rounder, black boots are one of the rare shoe trends which never date, but truly come into their own once winter arrives. If you want to lend a distinct '90s edge, opt for a pair defined by a square toe. They lend jeans a chic elevation and give winter midi or maxi skirts an overtly cool and subtly flirtatious finish.
Shop Square-Toe Boots:
I'd always advise you to size up in Reformation footwear, as they tend to be cut a touch narrow.
The elevated heel design lends these boots an expensive-looking finish.
These are perfect if you're someone who struggles with wide calves, like me.
These feel like something out of my mum's '90s wardrobe in the best way!
The vinyl finish is an easy way to add visual interest to your cold-weather looks.
4. Mock-Croc
Style Notes: An expansion of the growing animal-print trend, mock-croc is the gift that keeps on giving. Loved for its glossy, expensive-looking finish, this texture is an easy way to punctuate a casual look with a smart and polished finish, and with so many iterations out there, all that's left to do is choose your desired silhouette.
Shop Mock-Croc:
These court shoes would look undeniably chic with tailored trousers.
I've been oogling these loafers for some time, and this season I've decided to take the plunge.
Burgundy is back as a key colour trend this winter.
Toteme creates the minimalist uniform that almost every fashion person I know dreams of owning.
Pair these with a checked maxi skirt and a trench coat on a sunny winter's day.
5. Shearling-Lined
Style Notes: Winter in London calls for cosy, and what's cosier than something lined with shearling? Providing all the endless toe warmth and foot comfort needed when the winter chill sets in, this season’s shearling styles are impossible to ignore. Take inspiration from the UGG Zora, a directional ballet flat that’s taken the fashion set by storm. It’s safe to say that practical comfort has never looked so chic.
Shop Shearling-Lined:
Kaia Gerber was recently spotted sporting these UGGs with bootcut jeans and a pretty satin blouse.
I'm a big fan.
Whats better than the original?
Functional and warm, these would be perfect for a crisp countryside walk.
I have a sneaking suspicion these boots will be everywhere this season.
6. Minimalist Loafers
Style Notes: It's no secret that loafers are a timeless wardrobe essential, but whilst everyone seems to be talking about the charm of suede pairs, I find myself drawn to the understated appeal of a minimalist leather silhouette. Free from chunky soles or ruched trims, these loafers ooze quiet luxury, channelling a refined ease and elevated simplicity. Think The Rows Canal Loafer with its clean lines and supple leather. These styles transcend trends and naturally pair well with everything in your wardrobe.
Shop Simple Loafers:
ASOS Arrange is one of my favourite places to shop lately.
Crisp, clean and über-luxe, these loafers rival The Row, in my opinion.
Simply sublime.
As the name suggests, this style is built for strolling through Manhattan's bustling downtown (or London's verdant suburbs).
The grained leather is a nice touch.
7. Animal Print
Style Notes: Spotted on everyone from Kate Moss to Rihanna, animal-print shoes are the once-niche trend that’s officially gone mainstream. Adding an instant cool edge to your step, they’re the ultimate statement-maker, grounding a simple jeans-and-tee look or adding personality to an otherwise minimal outfit.
Shop Animal-Print Shoes:
Snake print has emerged as one of the most popular shoe trends of the season.
If you're a fan of the sneakerina trend, this animal-print pair might be for you.
The patch of python-effect leather on the toe truly elevates this silhouette.
I'm a big fan of these zebra-print Puma Speedcats.
Chic, chic, chic!
8. Slouchy Silhouettes
Style Notes: With the trend towards pirate and even medieval-style(!) fashion, slouchy boots are back in the spotlight once more. Loved for their oversized maximalist silhouette, both fashion people and designers alike (see the highly hyped H&M X Glenn Martens collaboration) are using these boots almost as an exclamation point to elevate an outfit, drawing your eyes to your shoes first. With both extreme and more wearable iterations rising in popularity, they’re certified as a cool way to add some visual interest in winter 2025. You might need an extra pair of hands to hoist them on, though!
Shop Slouchy Boots:
Cooler than a biker boot, this pair looks super-expensive.
Elsa Hosk was just spotted in a pair of boots which look almost identical to this Carvela iteration.
The black suede keeps them wearable.
Gaining popularity last year for their cool design and laid-back edge, I've already spotted some of my favourite fashion people dusting off their Robin boots once more.
Look to this Reformation style for a shorter height.
9. "Dad" Trainers
Style Notes: I know what you’re thinking: surely this isn't the return of those Balenciaga Triple S "womper stompers" that dominated the late 2010s? I promise it's not. However, a trainer that strikes the balance between retro and chunky offers unrivalled comfort and easy practicality. They give a throw-on-and-go coolness that works with everything from baggy jeans to tailored trousers, which is why everyone in the know has been clamouring to get their hands on the latest crop of dad styles, like the New Balance 204L.
Shop Dad Trainers:
I've worn these trainers every day since I bought them!
These trainers pair just as well with jeans as they do leggings.
The pink is a fun addition to this cool-girl style.
Your commute companion.
Silver is surprisingly versatile.
Why Trust Us?
At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.
We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Will Be Wearing These Shoes Come Spring 2026Your guide to the fashion month footwear you should have on your radar.
-
15 Winter 2025 Items Our Editors Are *Actually* Going to WearGet the best for the colder season.
-
Suddenly, Everyone With Good Taste Is Styling Fall Outfits With This Jacket Trend in 2025Spotted on the streets of Paris and New York.
-
I Hate to Say It, But It's Time to Set Aside These 5 "Dated" Sneaker TrendsThe new guard of It sneakers.
-
This "Ugly" Shoe Trend Is Officially Back From 2016—But This Time, It's BetterSpotted in London and NYC.
-
The New Rules of Fall Denim: No Awkward Crops, No Basic Blues, No Barrel JeansElevate your denim collection inside.
-
Everyone Cool in New York Is Wearing This New Sneaker Instead of Loafers, Ballet Flats, and BootsIt's the hardest-to-source sneaker in fashion right now.
-
These Are the Surprising Shoe Trends Gen Z Is Styling With Everyday Outfits for the Rest of 2025Niche, weird, and unconventional.
