Spring & Summer 2026 Shoe Trends You'll Be Seeing Everywhere

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It's finally time to rearrange our footwear collection, push the boots to the back and replace them with the lightweight kicks that went away last fall. But what shoes are putting the spring back into our step as we head into spring and summer 2026? Women.com exclusively got the lowdown from Cynthia Kennedy, personal stylist, image consultant, and creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, who revealed this year's sunny seasons will be all about relaxed, practical pieces with an intentional twist.

"Women's footwear is becoming much more effortless and practical, with designers putting a lot of thought into the texture and feel of the materials, small details, and overall design. We're moving from complicated styles to those that look and feel easy but still enhance your outfit," Kennedy tells us. "[Women] want pieces they can wear for many different occasions. They're looking for comfort, ease, versatility, and ones that can go from day to night, or from vacation to everyday life," she adds. That means everything from backless loafers to upgraded thongs (sandals, that is) should have a primary spot in your shoe closet.

Raffia sandals were huge in summer 2023 and the beachy material ruled supreme for a while until too much raffia became an outdated shoe trend for summer 2025. For 2026 though, the durable, natural fibre is back via comfortable slides alongside other woven textures. "They scream spring/summer and are perfect for the warmer months, allowing your feet to breathe, and giving any outfit that easy, summery texture," Cynthia Kennedy tells Women.com, exclusively. They're ideal for anyone looking for a trendy shoe to wear during a hot vacation (they're often lightweight for luggage too!) or those building a solid capsule wardrobe.

Kennedy recommends rocking raffia and woven slides with neutrals or denim pieces, like shorts or a skirt. "They'll add depth and dimension to your look without being overwhelming," she says. Kennedy also suggests wearing the trendy shoe as part of a monochromatic outfit for even the laziest days. Think raffia/woven slides with a neutral jumpsuit or a beige maxi dress. The Bhendi Espadrille Slide Sandal from CUSHIONAIRE embodies the comfortable, woven trend, while Tscoyuki's Raffia Beach Sandals offer style and comfort that can take you from the beach to the outdoor dinner table.

One of 2026's hottest heel trends is footwear with 3D petals/flowers, and we'll be seeing a lot of the feminine aesthetic on spring/summer's shoes. To tap into the sunny seasons' texture trend that's giving us total Zara Larsson "Midnight Sun" era vibes, look for shoes with floral details that leap off the footgear. This look is super versatile too, as petals and flowers will be on everything from sandals and flats to heels.

The Applique Decor Open Toe Flip Flop Sandals from OYOANGLE can transition from a summer day stroll to a casual evening meal. They also hit two trends thanks to the woven texture bottom. Equally, GORGLITTER's Dressy Flat Sandals reflect spring/summer 2026's penchant for simpler shapes and designs, yet still offer comfort in an upgraded way. They're perfect with a flowy midi dress for a meal under the stars, but can also work with a bubble skirt (one of 2026's hottest skirt trends), white tank top, and denim jacket for a family BBQ. 

As costs continue to skyrocket across the board in 2026 though, this is one of the easiest shoe trends to do yourself. To get the most milage out of your wardrobe, grab an old pair of shoes and a glue gun and add your own floral detailing. Try RUIDKUN's Artificial Flower Assortment or the FACINOC Artificial Flower Bouquet Box, or opt for flowers that match your outfit for a savvy, custom look.

It's time to swap traditional loafers for backless, mule versions that are easy to take on and off throughout your spring and summer activities. "They're a bridge between casual and dressy, making them incredibly versatile," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells us. She recommends slip-ons that aren't too over the top, so think simple designs in neutral shades. 

Styling wise, Kennedy tells us slip-on loafers will work best with a button-down shirt and tailored shorts for ultimate breezy vacation vibes or a light-weight suit for a more formal event. "These are for anyone who loves a traditional classic style but want something a bit more relaxed and modern," she explains. Get on this sophisticated yet not too stuffy trend with the Minorsu Casual Mules in Buckle-beige. The neutral shade can effortlessly assimilate with light, spring/summer 'fits for almost any event. Equally, the FUDYNMALC Buckle Flats in Apricot offer the simplistic texture that's everywhere this spring/summer and will look gorgeous with a nautical-inspired blue and white striped shirt dress.

Though basic flip-flops will always have a place in our wardrobes (and suitcases) because of their practicality and price, for spring/summer 2026, they're being upgraded via thong sandals. "[Thong sandals are a] much more refined version of the classic flip-flop, with premium materials, artistic sculpted soles, and subtle hardware," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively explains to us. "They're the easiest way to look polished while still being completely comfortable," she adds. You could even opt for a pair with a slight heel for a dressier occasion.

Kennedy shares that upgraded thongs will work best with a sundress (luckily, we've already settled the debate over what constitutes a sundress), a two-piece set, or comfortable linen trousers. "There are endless possibilities for balancing casual and elevated," she adds, making this trendy shoe ideal for those who want footgear that can work with multiple outfits amid 2026's surging shoe prices. Mikarka's Raffia Wedge Sandals will have you double on trend and can go from a day at the beach to an afternoon of sunny shopping. Equally, the Genuine Leather Thong Sandals in Camel Suede from Project Cloud offer the understated yet intentional vibe that's hot this spring and summer, as the buckle upgrades the footwear without being dated or distracting.

Dresses and sneakers are a combo made in summer fashion heaven and this pairing can be a lifesaver amid the unpredictable temperatures of spring too (darn those April showers!). When reaching for sneakers this spring/summer, keep in mind that chunky, thick versions are an outdated shoe trend this spring. Instead, focus on slimline versions that offer simplicity and practicality without overwhelming your 'fit.

The VIVAIA Cristina Square-Toe Sneakers toe the line between ballet flats and sneakers. Get them in a neutral shade (like Light Gold or Beach Blush) to ensure they offer the versatility and understated style that's popular right now and into summer. The CUSHIONAIRE Topcat Genuine Leather Suede Sneakers are also lightweight and lack the obvious structure of the super chunky sneakers that have trended in seasons gone by. They can be worn with cropped jeans and a basic t-shirt while running errands or can be paired with a maxi skirt and tank top for a more 'done' yet airy ensemble ideal for lunch with the girls.