Just as new trends come in, others make a swift exit from the fashion scene—and shoes are no exception. While there are plenty of footwear trends that will ultimately stand the test of time, there are some that suddenly feel overdone and tired after they reach a point of oversaturation. Curious to find out the outdated shoe trends our editors are retiring in 2019, I asked team Who What Wear to weigh in.
Ahead, our editors are calling out the shoe trends that they’re no longer buying or putting in the resale pile and sharing seven exciting new shoe styles they’re investing in now to wear for the year ahead. Go on to see which shoes we’re ditching for our closets and find out what fashion edtior–approved styles you’ll spot us wearing instead.
Out: Naked Heels
In: Super-Strappy Sandals
"I feel like the very naked heels had a big moment that's kind of been stolen by the super-strappy sandal, which I am very into right now. I just ordered two pairs last night—whoops." — Nicole Eshaghpour, Market Editor
Out: Pool Slides
In: Utility Sandals
"Pool slides are taking a backseat to utility sandals this season. The chunkier the better!" — Kat Collings, Editor in Chief
Out: Sharply Pointed Heels
In: Square-Toe Shoes
"Instead of sharply pointed heels that were wildly popular in past seasons, square-toe shoes are taking over. We're seeing plenty of cool styles in the form of sandals, mules, slingbacks, and boots and I'm already on board." — Kristen Nichols, Managing Editor
Out: Classic Rubber Flip-Flops
In: Fashion-Flops
"Classic rubber flip-flops definitely (and shockingly) had a moment last year, thanks to the street style set, but this summer, we're seeing a rise in the "fashion-flop" as I like to call them. Brands like Staud and Tibi have come out with sleek and elevated versions that are changing all perceptions of the thong sandal." — Lauren Eggertsen, Editor
Out: Sky-High Heels
In: Sporty Sandals
"I'm saying goodbye to sky-high heels for 2019 and opting for comfy sporty-sandals instead. They're super on-trend right now and look good with dresses and jeans alike." — Judith Jones, Market Editor
Out: T-Strap Sandals
In: Asymmetrical Sandals
"I think it's over for T-strap sandals this summer. Instead, minimalists (and really, everyone) will be wearing sandals with thin, asymmetric straps à la the '90s. I just pre-ordered this Reike Nen pair and am counting down the days until they arrive." — Anna LaPlaca, Assistant Editor
Out: Sock Sneakers
In: Classic Sneakers
"Sock sneakers have been on the decline, which is fine with me since it was a trend I chose to not invest in. Instead, the only sneaker style I'll be buying in 2019 is classic ones." — Allyson Payer, Editor
Out: PVC Shoes
In: Kitten Heels
"I think the PVC trend had its time spotlight and doesn't feel as fresh as kitten heels right now. Luckily there are plenty of stylish versions to choose from, including these Ganni ones." — Erin Fitzpatrick, Senior News Editor
