There's something undeniably exciting about this time of year. I know it feels like we've only just stopped talking about autumn shoe trends, but 2025's winter shoe trends are already making their way into stores, onto our feeds, and, inevitably, our wish lists.
As someone who quietly thrives in the colder months, I'll admit my bias: I've always had a soft spot for the chunky, practical and occasionally outrageous footwear that winter brings. This year, however, feels particularly special. Designers across New York, London, Milan and Paris seemed to align in their mission to make winter footwear feel luxurious but still grounded in wearability; something that speaks equally to the minimalists and the maximalists among us.
Labels from Dolce&Gabbana to Miu Miu confirmed that winter shoe trends for 2025 are all about tactility, shape and a sense of nostalgia. From pirate-style boots that channel a romantic, boho-style swashbuckling spirit to sculptural heels that look like wearable art, the season's standout styles are as diverse as they are directional. Whether you're in the market for the perfect knee-high boots to wear over jeans or something more dramatic to elevate a simple outfit, the five winter 2025 shoe trends below promise to carry you stylishly through the season.
THE 5 WINTER 2025 SHOE TRENDS TO KNOW
1. Pirate Boots
Style Notes: Pirate boots are making a surprising comeback this season. We can all remember Kate Moss rocking Vivienne Westwood's pair in the early 2000s, and these nostalgic boots feel both playful and practical. On the runways, we saw them in softly structured silhouettes, whilst some were fold-over styles in black and brown leather. At Dolce&Gabbana, they came sharply crafted and knee-high, whilst Miu Miu offered a more relaxed, slightly slouchy take in muted tones. Onitsuka Tiger—a brand in every Who What Wear editor's shoe wardrobe—added a contemporary twist with utilitarian straps—proof that the pirate theme isn't limited to romance novels.
Shop the Trend:
Believe it—this icon is about to back.
For the chicest pirate around.
Look to this Reformation style for a shorter height.
2. Sculptural, Statement Heels
Style Notes: Minimalist dressing meets maximalist shape: Chanel debuted rounded, pearl-like heels that caught the light with every step. These aren't shoes you throw on absentmindedly—they demand attention. Whilst Saint Laurent introduced curved stilettos that looked almost aerodynamic, and which scream party season, at Gucci, the pointed mules came with elongated silhouettes that felt more like modernist architecture than footwear. Special mention should be made to Dries van Noten, whose playful, almost avant-garde heels and extra rounded toe were the talk of the show itself. What do they have in common? These are heels that make you pause and stare; equal parts art piece and outfit anchor.
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10/10 all round from me.
These will see you through so many occasions.
I have these in my basket right now.
3. Cosy on the Inside (And the Outside)
Style Notes: If there's one thing winter always brings, it's the desire to feel cocooned, and this season, designers took that literally. Louis Vuitton led the charge with shearling-lined ankle boots, complete with studded detailing that gives their softness an edge. Gabriela Hearst leaned into a Western influence with full shearling-outer cowboy boots, whilst Valentino, Miu Miu and Fendi went maximalist with bulky, fur-covered styles that looked like a high fashion take on moon boots.
Shop the Trend:
Cute, comfortable and classic.
Show me a cosier-looking boot.
If you prefer flats over boots, look no further than this dark-brown faux fur pair.
4. Slender, Sporty Trainers
Style Notes: Whilst chunky trainers dominated the last few years, 2025 is all about sleek, retro-inspired styles. Miu Miu led the way with slender silhouettes in leather, suede and even snakeskin, with some even featuring delicate buckles. Niccolò Pasqualetti showcased tonal suede pairs that subtly shifted colour with movement—proof that texture can be just as impactful as embellishment. Think of these as your "elevated casual" trainers. They pair just as easily with tailoring as they do with a pleated midi skirt, and I've already seen fashion insiders styling them with longline coats and simple cashmere knits.
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These have just been bumped to the top of my Christmas wish list.
Well done, COS.
Move over, Sambas, the Tokyo is about to be everywhere.
5. Lace-Up Boots
Style Notes: It's hardly winter without a statement boot, and this year's lace-up versions feel bolder than ever. Alexander McQueen's red-lace heeled boots stole the show in Paris, whilst Hermès reimagined equestrian styles with chunky soles and refined lacing. Marc Jacobs went for drama with doll-like, almost stilted platforms; a gothic twist that made the whole look feel distinctly unique.
Shop the Trend:
Both luxe and edgy at the same time.
The drama!
I like that these are only laced halfway for a point of difference.
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