I've Been a Specialist at Nordstrom for 18 Years—These Spring Shoe Trends Are the Most Popular

Jesse James is a certified shopping expert. After all, he's worked as a sales associate at Nordstrom for 18 years and currently acts as a designer specialist in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a major focus on footwear. If you scrolled over to his popular Instagram page, @designer.mens, you'd notice this quote in his bio: "I don’t sell shoes… I sell dreams." And that's what's coming your way below: a curation of fanciful spring shoes.
James shared a list of his top five favorite spring shoe trends, which include silhouettes that are already quite popular among his client base. "These spring trends are the best I've seen yet and are making for an amazing spring season," James said. You'll notice that there's quite a range of trending styles, including flats and heels.
Keep scrolling to check out the trends in further detail, as showcased by some of our favorite fashion influencers. There are also inspired shopping picks if the trends pique your interest for the season.
Kitten Heels
"Kitten heels are making their comeback with top styles featuring slingbacks and pointed toes. These will add a little height and some major style to any collection." — Jesse James
Ballet Flats
"Square-toe ballerina flats are taking center stage with true ballet-look styles being the standout of the season." — James
Colorful Sneakers
"It may not be groundbreaking, but it's definitely on trend. Colorful pastel sneakers that feature multiple textures and shades are having a major moment and are a fun way to spice up a casual 'fit." — James
Denim Shoes
"We are seeing a spike in popularity of denim styles, from light to distressed to embellished. This gives me some serious JT and Britney '00s vibes." — James
Loafers
"Loafer-style mules and buckles are incredibly on-trend right now, their versatility being seen on slides, mules, and flats alike." — James
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
Here They Are: The 6 Biggest Boot Trends of Fall 2025
Exotic finishes! Sock boots! Western motifs!
-
After 2 Weeks in Italy, I'm Convinced I Need the Shoe Trend Every Chic Woman in Milan and Rome Was Wearing
Forget ballet flats.
-
Pendant Necklaces, Desert Hues, and Pajama Sets—Michael Kors Ushers In Earthy Elegance for Spring 2026
Fringe, suits, and wallet necklaces were all standouts.
-
According to Ralph Lauren, Coastal Glamour Will Set the Tone for Spring 2026 Style
Bold pendants, XL sun hats, and stripes galore.
-
The 5 Shoe Trends *Everyone* Should Own, According to New Stuart Weitzman Ambassador Emma Chamberlain
Read our exclusive interview.
-
There's No Question—These 8 Fall Shoe Trends Will Make You Look Rich
Luxe outfits are in your future.
-
Better Than Ballet Flats (and Loafers): The Shoe Trend It Girls in NYC and Paris Will Be Wearing This Fall
It's classic but fresh at the same time.
-
Back to School: 5 Collegiate Shoe Trends That'll Be Everywhere This Fall
Chic, comfy, and compliment-guaranteed.