14 Of The Hottest Shoe Trends You'll Want To Try In 2024
As we make our way through 2024, there's one major thing on our minds: shoe trends. After 2023 saw the resurgence of the pointed toe shoe, classic Mary Janes, and even rugged, yet practical engineer boots (we didn't see that one coming either), 2024 is expected to bring a whole host of inventive and exciting footwear trends.
But while each year brings with it the more predictable shoe choices (boots for the winter, for example), it seems like 2024 is going to be more about the more unexpected choices when it comes to our footwear. And when we say unexpected, we mean the jelly shoes and clogs kind of unexpected. Don't say we didn't warn you!
But, don't worry if you're not quite feeling going that dramatic, there are a few more practical shoes to look out for over the year ahead too if you're not quite ready to embrace this trend returnees. And we're breaking them all down for you.
Mary Janes are here to stay following their 2023 resurgence
With the rise of the coquette and balletcore aesthetics across TikTok, it's not surprising that Mary Janes made a huge comeback in 2023. However, for 2024, it looks like we're expected to see more than just the typical flat pink style a la the classic Miu Miu.
At New York Fashion Week Spring 2024, they came in all different varieties and colors, including dark red, with multiple straps instead of one. Heeled variations are also expected to be a big hit, too.
Jelly shoes are making an unexpected comeback
This unique trend first reared its head back in the 1980s and came back around in the 1990s, and now it seems like they're back once again for 2024. Fashion experts are predicting this statement making shoe to dominate this summer after The Row's pre-fall 2024 collection featured them prominently. Expect to see styles with lug soles and block heels to give them a grown up vibe.
And so are clogs
After years of people tapping into their gardening hobbies at home, comfort has become a priority, especially with footwear. Designers seemed to have caught wind of this as clogs were spotted on the big fashion runways for spring.The modern version of the shoe had a few changes though, coming in a variety of bright colors and embellishments, proving they're no longer a frumpy garden shoe. Big name brands have apparently tapped into the clog craze, too, releasing designer versions of the comfort shoe, while major celebrities have worn them out and about. Just some of the big names whose models wore clogs? JW Anderson and 3.1 Phillip Lim.
But you can also stand tall in platforms
Looking for a little extra height in 2024? Well, you're in luck. Susannah Davda, The Shoe Consultant founder, told Women & Home that platforms won't be going anywhere when it comes to trends. "They look powerful, which fits the way women want to feel right now, and they are also somewhat practical. Many women are used to wearing trainers most of the time, and platforms make the pitch of high heels feel flatter and more comfortable," she shared. There are a number of ways to rock the platform in a modern way, as Gucci even debuted a platform loafer during its spring 2024 runway show during Milan Fashion Week.
Metallic shoes are still in, too
We saw a big resurgence in metallic shades, particularly silver, in fashion in 2023. That was largely due to Queen Beyoncé using the color a lot during her iconic Renaissance Tour. And it turns out Queen B's influence has been so big that the metallic shoe trend will be carrying over into 2024. Versace and Bottega Veneta are two of the big fashion houses who made use of the shiny footwear on the runway for their 2024 shows. "Having that little sparkle and shine will add some spice to your look," Margaret Stone, a personal stylist and founder of My Happy Closet, told Business Insider of this shiny trend.
Mules are also the way to go
Mules are a classically practical shoe that seem to defy the seasons — and that won't change in 2024. "Mules are timeless and have gained height, making us stand tall and confident in 2024," celebrity stylist Natalie Robinson explained to Women & Home. But while past seasons have been more about the flat mule show, Robinson predicted that the on-trend look for 2024 is a heeled style (thin or thick) with an open toe. To double up on your trends, opt for a style in a metallic gold.
Thongs were spotted at plenty of runway shows
Thongs are in for 2024, too! But not that kind. We're talking about thong sandals, of course. "Whether you're opting for something flat and simple or going for a more embellished and strappy silhouette, thong sandals will be an easy go-to for everyone next year," Shopbop's fashion director Caroline Maguire explained to Refinery29 in 2023. That was proven by so many models strutting their stuff in sandals while walking down the runway at shows by the likes of Chanel and Burberry.
Think satin when it comes to summer 2024 shoes
For summer 2024, the experts are predicting satin shoes will be the big trend as the temperature hears up. "Compared to leather shoes, the appearance of satin footwear is softer and complements lightweight materials such as satin, crepe, silk or chiffon. The contrasting textures create a subtle and tasteful difference between a silk or crepe wedding outfit and a satin court or strappy shoe," Natalie Robinson told Women & Home. This is another trend with a stamp of approval from the big fashion houses, as Prada and Givenchy are two of the companies who have shown off satin shoes on the runway.
While kitten heels have been spotted all over the 2024 runway shows
Prada, Givenchy, and Gucci. Those are just three of the fashion brands bringing kitten heels back into our lives. That's because the trio were just some of the influential companies who put them on show during their 2024 runway shows. Love them or hate them (most people don't tend to sit in the middle when it comes to these mini heels) there's no doubting that they're here to stay. "The kitten heel gives a lift and a great posture, but they're still comfortable and practical shoes for the woman on the move," shoe label founder Marina Larroudé told Refinery29 of why this trend should be given a chance.
Plain white sneakers
Branded sneakers are a huge market, and we can't see that slowing down anytime soon. But if you're not into the whole world of fancy sneakers or forking out hundreds for a pair, then we have good news for you. Kim Appelt, a celebrity fashion stylist and author, told Business Insider that white sneakers sans brand will be a big trend for 2024. Which is great news for our bank accounts. "Dress them down with a light linen dress on a winter vacation or in the summer. Or add a classic, non-branded pair with a pair of jeans or joggers," she advised of how to style them.
But you can also inject some color into your sneaker life
It's not all about the no-brand white sneakers, though. For those who love a label, look towards pairs that inject a little color into your wardrobe. "I think summer 2024 will see a real burst of color for established and emerging brands alike, and it's such a welcome addition to the trainer world," Josh Herbert, the stylist and founder of Captain Creps, told Women & Home. "I can't wait to see what pastel color variants brands like Nike, New Balance and Salomon will be introducing as the year progresses."
Or try a western look, y'all!
Last fall, we caught wind that cowboy boots had finally made a comeback after a long hiatus from the mainstream. Now, we can confirm that the rustic style shoe is set to be a hit once again for spring and summer. And it looks like designers have already embraced the return of the western aesthetic – Retailers have started offering cowgirl boots in both ankle, mid-calf, and knee-high heights featuring the signature loose shaft at the top, which means there are many ways to embrace the aesthetic if you're not going full Americana.
With those varied heights come lots of color choices: Trendy chocolate brown is predicted to be huge, as well as white, black, and even metallic. As for how to wear this look? Fashion expert Maragret Stone tells Business Insider, "Paired with a simple jean and white top, you are ready to go," she shared.
Pairing shoes and colored hosiery will also be the way to go
In 2024, it's not just all about what shoes you wear. It's also about what you wear with them. And it seems like colored tights will be the ultimate shoe pairing throughout 2024, regardless of the weather. As Natalie Robinson, explained to Women & Home, "Colored tights with shoes exemplify a transitional outfit, taking us from a day-to-evening look effortlessly with an element of fun." On the runways, we saw a lot of tights and long socks paired with heels, making use of both matching and contrasting colors.
But don't forget the shoe bows
Thanks to TikTok, fashion has carved out a niche for embracing hyper-femininity. With that, expect to see bows on everything, from flats to pointy-toed heels and even boots. "They immediately make your shoes the focus of your outfit," Laura Schofield, Otto And Ivy founder, told Women & Home. "They're also incredibly flattering on my customers with larger feet because it's all about balancing proportions," she added.