10 Spring/Summer 2026 Shoe Trends You’ll Actually Want to Buy

STYLE
By Ava Foster

Spring and summer are just around the corner, and that means it’s time to refresh your shoe collection with the hottest new styles. Fashion runways and street style stars are already showing us what will be everywhere in 2026, from sleek sneakers to bold statement heels.

Whether you love comfortable flats or eye-catching designs, there’s something exciting for everyone this season. Get ready to discover the shoes that will make your outfits stand out and keep you feeling confident all season long.

1. Slim Sneakers

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Say goodbye to chunky dad sneakers and hello to a more refined look.

Slim sneakers are taking over with their streamlined shapes that work perfectly whether you’re wearing jeans, dresses, or even tailored pants.

These aren’t your basic gym shoes—they’re designed with style in mind while still being comfortable enough for all-day wear.

Look for low-profile leather or breathable mesh runners in classic white, or go bold with spring’s hottest colors like bubblegum pink or capri blue.

The beauty of this trend is how versatile it is.

You can dress them up with a midi skirt or keep things casual with your favorite denim.

They’re the perfect bridge between athletic and fashionable, giving you that effortlessly cool vibe everyone wants.

2. Backless Loafers

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Imagine the polish of classic loafers mixed with the ease of your favorite slip-ons.

Backless loafers are the ultimate solution when you want to look put-together without spending extra time getting ready.

They slide on in seconds but still give you that sophisticated edge that regular loafers provide.

Suede and leather versions with square or pointed toes are especially popular right now.

These shoes work brilliantly for so many occasions—wear them to school, weekend brunches, or even dressier events when paired with the right outfit.

The open back keeps your feet cooler during warmer months, which is a huge bonus.

Plus, they bridge the gap between formal and casual perfectly, making them one of the smartest investments for your spring wardrobe.

3. Glove Pumps (Minimalist Heels)

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Think of these as a second skin for your feet—sculpted, sleek, and incredibly elegant.

Glove pumps hug your foot like they were custom-made just for you, creating a streamlined silhouette that looks amazing peeking out from under trousers or paired with skirts.

The minimalist design means there are no unnecessary details, just pure, sophisticated lines.

Designers like Proenza Schouler, Khaite, and Aeyde are leading this trend with their architectural approach to heels.

If you’re looking for something that feels modern and grown-up, this is it.

They’re perfect for when you want to elevate your look without going over the top.

The pointed toe and stiletto heel combo creates a lengthening effect that’s universally flattering and timelessly chic.

4. Embellished Statement Heels

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Sometimes you just need shoes that steal the show, and that’s exactly what embellished heels are made for.

Sequins, floral appliqués, jeweled details, and decorative motifs transform ordinary heels into wearable art.

These maximalist pieces are ideal when you’re heading to parties, formal events, or anywhere you want to make a memorable entrance.

The runway has been flooded with these eye-catching designs, proving that more is definitely more this season.

Pair them with simpler outfits so the shoes can truly shine as the focal point.

A little black dress becomes extraordinary when you add heels covered in flowers or sparkling embellishments.

They’re conversation starters and confidence boosters all rolled into one gorgeous package that celebrates personal style.

5. Square-Toe Shoes

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Architecture meets footwear in this trend that’s showing up everywhere from sandals to boots.

Square toes give shoes a modern, geometric edge that feels fresh and different from the usual rounded or pointed styles.

This shape adds instant polish to any outfit, making even casual looks appear more intentional and fashion-forward.

You’ll find square toes dominating mules, sandals, and ballet-flat silhouettes this season.

What makes them so appealing is that they’re actually more comfortable than super-pointy shoes since your toes have more room to breathe.

They look particularly stunning in neutral tones that let the unique shape take center stage.

Whether you choose flats or heels, this architectural detail transforms ordinary shoes into statement pieces that show you’re paying attention to current trends.

6. Jazz-Inspired Flats

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Picture the grace of ballet flats meeting the structured detailing of classic brogues.

Jazz-inspired flats bring together the best of both worlds—they’re elegant enough for dressier occasions but practical enough to wear all day without your feet screaming for relief.

The lace-up design adds visual interest and a touch of vintage charm that feels both nostalgic and current.

Look for leather versions with lightweight soles and those classic brogue-style perforations.

These shoes work beautifully with everything from cropped pants to flowing dresses, giving you endless styling possibilities.

They’re especially perfect for people who love the look of heels but prefer staying grounded.

The hybrid style means you get sophistication without sacrificing comfort, making them ideal for busy days when you’re constantly on the move.

7. Peep-Toe Sandals

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Flip-flops got a major upgrade, and the results are seriously stylish.

Peep-toe sandals for 2026 feature elevated straps, refined shapes, and sophisticated details that make them appropriate for way more than just the beach.

The modernized thong style keeps things breezy and comfortable while looking intentionally fashionable rather than overly casual.

Minimalist designs with clean lines are particularly popular, proving that simple can be stunning.

These sandals are absolute lifesavers during warm weather when you want your feet to breathe but still look pulled-together.

They transition seamlessly from daytime errands to evening dinners, especially when you choose versions in neutral or metallic tones.

The updated silhouettes mean you’re not sacrificing style for comfort—you genuinely get both in one perfect warm-weather shoe.

8. Boat Shoes Reimagined

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Your dad’s old boat shoes have gotten a serious fashion makeover.

Classic preppy styles are being refreshed with updated materials, more fashion-forward shapes, and colors beyond traditional navy and brown.

Think soft pastels, buttery leathers, and silhouettes that feel current rather than stuck in the past.

This reimagined version keeps the comfortable, nautical-inspired vibe while adding a dose of modern sophistication.

They’re perfect for creating that effortlessly cool coastal aesthetic, even if you’re nowhere near the water.

Pair them with rolled-up chinos, casual dresses, or even denim shorts for that preppy-meets-contemporary look.

The elevated boat shoe proves that classic styles can evolve and stay relevant when designers aren’t afraid to experiment with fresh details and unexpected color palettes that appeal to today’s fashion lovers.

9. Bold Color Trainers

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White sneakers have had their moment—now it’s time for color to take the spotlight.

Bold trainers in vivid shades like carbon grey, fire red, emerald green, and electric blue are becoming the go-to choice for people who want their shoes to make a statement.

These aren’t subtle accent colors; they’re unapologetically bright and designed to stand out.

Fashion brands are embracing this trend with color-pop options that feel fresh and energizing.

The beauty of colorful trainers is how they instantly upgrade even the simplest outfit—throw them on with black leggings and a white tee, and suddenly you look intentional and stylish.

They’re also a fun way to experiment with trends without committing to bold colors in your clothing.

Your feet become the focal point, showing confidence and personality with every step you take.

10. Ballet & Classic Flats (Burgundy Flats)

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Rich, deep burgundy is having a major moment, especially in classic flat silhouettes.

Ballet flats and traditional flat styles in this gorgeous wine-toned hue bring a retro-inspired vibe that feels both nostalgic and completely current.

The color itself is incredibly versatile—it works as a neutral but adds more visual interest than basic black or beige.

These flats are primed to become wardrobe staples that you reach for constantly.

They elevate casual outfits effortlessly, adding a touch of sophistication to jeans, skirts, or dresses without requiring any effort on your part.

The comfortable, walkable design means you can wear them all day without issues.

Plus, burgundy pairs beautifully with so many colors—from denim blues to soft creams to bold patterns—making these flats one of the smartest purchases you’ll make this season.