I've been spending much of my time lately combing through the thousands of looks from the spring/summer 2024 runway shoes to inform our big new-season trend report. This lengthy process was made all the more time consuming, as I kept getting distracted by all the pretty shoes I found on my travels. Admittedly, I am a shoe person but one who can usually contain herself, only backing or buying into the shoe trends I genuinely think have merit and will have a positive impact and push forward my style. I certainly didn't expect to fall (hard!) for nine of them!
For the year ahead, designers have presented a range of shoe trends, including, but not limited to, a continuation of mary janes and styles finished in rich ruby red that echo the season's defining colour. I'll admit, 90% of the shoe trends for 2024 aren't exactly practical either—there are bows, fragile heels and soft fabrications to eat up. But they are fun, and will bring joy to even your most basic outfits. However, if comfort really is your main concern, rest assured there is a shoe waiting for you in the midst...
Ahead, see the nine biggest shoe trends for 2024, including the styles to shop now. Then, why not take a peek at handbags while you're at it...
The 9 Biggest Shoe Trends for 2024
1. Topped With a Bow
Style Notes: This season, bows cropped up across clothing and accessories, though shoes were perhaps the most charming iteration. Erdem's incorporation of bows extends beyond ornamentation, nor does it adhere to practicality either—its floppy, ground-skimming bows were a deliberate choice; one that transforms each step into a nuanced state of elegance.
Shop the Trend:
Perfect for evenings.
These low heels are such a comfortable height.
Pair this with a slip dress and boxy blazer on nights out.
2. Mary Jane? I Know Her!
Style Notes: The resurgence of the mary jane has had a significant impact on fashion for 2024, with the shoe style appearing on countless runways. As seen at 16Arlington—the brand favoured heeled styles over flats—it bestowed every look with a timeless sophistication. These shoes aren't just accessories; they're a continuum of grace.
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A fun colour for spring.
This classic shoe will never go out of style.
A french style-staple.
3. Walking Flower Beds
Style Notes: Corsage detailing might have been big over the past few months, but the trend still has steam in 2024. Now, I'm seeing more and more floral shoes enter the discussion. Chloé's petal pile-up makes for an interesting texture, but you can also find more sculptural, modern styles on the market if your style is less whimsical.
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These are a great way to style-up a plain slip dress.
How cute!
The ultimate wedding guest heel.
4. Gold Accents
Style Notes: After a solid year of silver stealing focus, gold is back on the style agenda, with dresses, bags and suiting all paying homage to the metallic. On shoes, you'll notice lots of gold accents will begin to infiltrate the market. Think gleaming heels, contrast toe caps and chunky adornments, including studs and snaffles.
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So sleek.
These are great for work as well as days out.
An easy way to elevate your jeans and shirt combo.
5. Let it Slip
Style Notes: This season, a spotlight has been shone on slip-on house shoes. Delivering more than just comfort, suede clogs and shearling-lined booties signify a lifestyle shift, blurring the boundaries between home and the outside world. Cosy and cool, follow JW Anderson's lead and wear yours with sleek outerwear for a fun juxtaposition.
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This classic shoe is constantly selling-out. Get them now while you can!
Don't these just look so comfy?
We love the two-toned effect on this pair.
6. Ruby Red
Style Notes: There may be no place like home, but this shoe trend is too pretty to keep cooped up indoors. Red shoes, be they fancy heels or flats, were all over the runway—this shouldn't come as a surprise seeing as bright red has been the biggest colour trend of the past year—and offer an easy way to pep up your outfits for 2024.
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This shade has become a staple in every fashion-lover's wardrobe.
A more subtle way to incorporate the trend.
I'm obsessed with the shape of these.
7. Socks and Sandals 2.0
Style Notes: Socks and sandals might be your dad's forte come summer, but Victoria Beckham just presented the combination a wholly different context. Pairing knee-highs with stacked-sole sandals, the look becomes spicy (and posh).
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We love a sheer moment.
An opened-toe platform heel will look so cool paired with the socks.
A lightweight sock that can be worn all year round.
70s chic.
8. Built-In Anklets
Style Notes: With footwear being as much an accessory as any jewellery trend, its a natural evolution for the two to combine. For 2024, Fendi showcased that the hybrid anklet-shoe offering form, function and a little flashiness in one.
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These will look so good with a flowy maxi skirt.
We love the logo charm on this pair.
The satin material makes these look so elegant,
9. Return of the Flip-Flop
Style Notes: Unless you're jetting off in the next few months, this is a trend you'll probably want to revisit. Although simple, the humble flip-flops's hold on 2024 can't be ignored. Seen all over the fashion month circuit, it was Chanel that cemented this as a need-to-know shoe trend. How cute as those tiny interlocking Cs?
Shop the Trend:
The Row is the epitome of quiet-luxury.
A neutral tone to go with everything.
M&S has some excellent footwear this spring.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
