I'm a Shoe Expert—5 Spring-Ready Pairs That Belong in Every Capsule Wardrobe

Shoes, shoes, shoes—I can't get enough of them. But while I would happily buy a new pair each month (okay, week) my bank balance and London rental storage space will not allow it. To the joy of my boyfriend, I haven't actually bought any new shoes in a while, and it's mainly because I've been wearing the same pair of Dear Frances boots or New Balance trainers on repeat recently. Which is why I'm so pleased my favourite season (technically it's summer, but spring counts) is on the horizon—it is when it comes to all the new offerings dropping online, anyway. 

There's a few key styles I have on my wish list for the upcoming season, with ballet flat (yep, they're sticking around), preppy loafers and slingback kitten heels being firmly at the top. Want to know what other hero buys to look out for? These are the 5 shoe styles I predict will be everywhere for 2024. 

1. Ballet Flats 

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Style Notes: If you thought ballet flats were a fleeting trend, think again. They're huge news for 2024, too. Much like last year, it's all about minimalist pairs—mesh, suede are key—with the addition of buckles, cut-outs and Mary Jane straps making any outfit look effortless.

2. Slingback Kitten Heels 

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: I have to admit, I've always been a fan of kitten heels. Previously seen as being dated, the '90s favourite is back, and naturally I'm already on board. It's all about slingback styles that are getting the most air time on Instagram. Yes, the annoying strap may fall down multiple times, but look how good they look on Sylvie. 

3. Heeled Mary Janes

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(Image credit: @vikilefevre )

Styles Notes: While my 10-year-old self was an avid wearer of Mary Jane shoes, I haven't worn them since. But I could be swayed with the heeled iterations I keep seeing everywhere—Vikile has me eyeing up a triple strap pair, and luckily I've found a very similar pair on the high street. 

4. School Shoe Loafers

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(Image credit: @samanthaaelise )

Style Notes: With all things preppy being key—think pleated mini skirts, shirts and ties and V-neck knits—of course, school style shoes are involved. Loafers have gone super chunky, make like Samantha and wear with a slouchy suit.

5. Fun Trainers

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(Image credit: @holliemercedes)

Style Notes: Put your white kicks away, colourful trainers are sticking around. Unlikely colour combinations get a firm yes, along with unusual soles, retro pairs and statement details. Hollie's Cecilie Bahnsen x Asics pair have sold out, but you can still find them on resale sites.

Next Up, These Are The 6 Best Trainer Styles To Wear With Jeans

Freelance Fashion Editor

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning. Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people. When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.