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Ready to refresh your shoe game? Comfort and personality are stepping into the spotlight, with classic styles making a comeback alongside playful twists on old favorites. Whether you’re into timeless elegance or bold, nostalgic vibes, there’s a casual shoe trend right now for every mood and moment. Here’s a run-down of some must-have choices.
Ballet Flats
Although always a fashion staple, these comfy shoes are having an edgier moment, inspired in part by the ongoing balletcore trend, which has turned more unconventional this year. Vivid, lurid colors are popular, as are square toes. Materials like mesh and raffia add texture, too.
If you love ballet flats, you could go traditional for timeless comfort and style. Alternatively, break some rules and wear them with socks and wide-leg jeans for a trendy Y2K vibe. Try mesh ballet flats, joggers and a cropped hoodie for an effortless athleisure combo.
Image Source: Amazon — Round Toe Ballet Flats
Clogs
Brands like Chloé, Alexander McQueen and Dries Van Noten have all featured clogs in their recent collections. These adaptable, comfortable shoes give off a relaxed vibe that is easily adaptable across outfits. Their sturdy, bulky silhouette grounds and adds body to whatever you’re wearing.
Traditional browns and blacks are still popular, but neon brights add another dimension that can complement or clash with anything. Pair a floaty, fairytale dress with chunky clogs for contrast and effortless chic.
Loafers
Another fashion staple having an updated moment — loafers in 2025 come in both modern and classic looks. Key trends include a move toward more streamlined, low-profile and classic penny types. Searches for suede loafers have risen by 450% since January, and there is a huge variety of colors.
Brands such as Gucci, J.Crew and Prada are leaning into streetwear loafers, while Miu Miu featured a ballet-flat-loafer cross, complete with an elastic convertible heel. For a grown-up take on the preppy look, pair loafers with a miniskirt, socks and a blazer.
Image Source: Amazon — Women’s Chunky Loafers
Y2K Retro Sneakers
Driven by Gen Z’s love of the late 90s aesthetic, retro sneakers are hugely popular. Designs tend to be slimmer and sleeker than the chunky silhouette of a decade ago. Brands such as New Balance, Adidas, ASICS and PUMA are spearheading minimalist elements.
Metallics are also increasingly popular, tapping into the nostalgia vibe. Celebs like Jennifer Lawrence and Hailey Bieber have been wearing silver kicks, so think reflective or sci-fi for finishes. Streamline your sneakers with capri pants or slim-fit jeans.
Mary Janes
Originally a children’s shoe, Mary Janes also speak to the ongoing vintage trends. They have a sentimental appeal but can also be highly sophisticated and versatile. Fashion icons like Bella Hadid and Sarah Jessica Parker have been out and about in Mary Janes, and these adaptable shoes can take you from office to errands to nightlife without a second thought.
Hybrid designs such as Mary Jane sneakers are also emerging. To tap into the nostalgia, choose velvet or metallic finishes with jewels and crystals. Wear minimalist Mary Janes to complement tailored trousers and smart knitwear for a high-end look.
Image Source: Amazon — Women’s Low Chunky Heel Mary Jane Pumps
Jelly Shoes
These ‘90s essentials are back, showing up on runways and celeb feet alike. Chloé’s Spring 2025 collection featured kitten-heel thong jelly sandals in sorbet colors, Bottega Veneta went for jellies with chunky block heels and Fenty x Puma had jelly flip-flops. Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand has also seen its jelly shoes go viral.
It’s another nostalgia-driven trend, but can you still wear them when fall’s underway? Yes! Just add socks or choose a closed-toe option for the colder weather. Pair earth-tone jellies with opaque tights and a woollen dress for a warmer, substantial outfit.
Image Source: Amazon — Jelly Mary Janes
Step Into Your Style
With so many fun and versatile options, this is a great time to experiment with your footwear. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of ballet flats, the playfulness of jellies or the chunky drama of clogs, there’s a trend waiting for you. Embrace whatever feels right, mix and match, and let your shoes carry you confidently through adventures to come.
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