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Spring 2021 shoe trends that will sweep you right off your feet!
COVER STORY / 2021-02-17
Can you even believe the first month of 2021 is already over? Of course, that was a rhetorical question because the answer is obviously a big ol' – nope! But on the brighter side of the inevitable passing of time, fresh fashion trends for 2021 are here. More specifically, we're talking shoe trends from spring/summer’21 and fall/winter '21 runway shows.
While some of the shoe trends are familiar, most others feel fresher or are modern iterations of classic silhouettes. If you're looking for a new shoe purchase, you've landed at the right place. Shoe trends 2021 have something in store for everyone. For those who have a more casual, dressed-down aesthetic to those who always look for the fanciest grabs, we have curated the top six shoe trends that your wardrobe needs right now.
After a year that saw most of us remotely working and socializing, it's fair to say that the idea of wearing shoes can feel a bit novel. The bravest and boldest may have clomped around their bedrooms and kitchens in special kicks, but there's no judging those among us who retreated into slippers, socks, or bare heels and toes. As we want you to be nothing less than prepared, keep scrolling if you're in the mood for some serious fashion inspo in the new year.
1. Thick Chains
Chain detailing will add all the glamour and bling you need to up your shoe game this year. Think of this trend as an accessorised version of footwear. Chain necklaces have made a resurgence in recent years, and metal detailing on footwear was all over the runway last season. This year, plan on attaching this shiny accouterment to your favorite pair of heels. Noteworthy runway examples of this include Victoria Beckham and Versace.
2. Cushion-y Slides
We are all a bit too fond of our slides, now more than ever. The soft, plush and cushioned flip-flops are the ultimate comfort-comes-first shoe trend this year. Not only do these slippers look adorable, but they'll keep your feet comfy and ready for a hot summer day. In a time where comfort is key, it was an obvious sort of a thing to see a beach favorite on the catwalks. Many ace designers gave the classic shape a chic upgrade with leather and thick rubber soles.
3. Strappy Shoes
Statement-making lace-ups have never been out of style. And to highlight, flatforms especially are one of the strappy varieties that will be everywhere in 2021. Good thing they're comfy too! Not to mention, spiraling straps add a striking detail for both heels and sandals. Long ankle straps that wrap around the leg are a more elevated version of the 2000s gladiator shoe trend. This style emphasizes your legs in an elegant way to add a sophisticated air to any outfit.
4. Sporty Sneakers
If you're a sneaker-head, you'll love this retro-looking trend for 2021 for sure. This is yet another trend that seems to have been plucked from the men's runways. Spotted on the catwalk at Louis Vuitton, among others, sporty sneakers are shoes you'll love to wear when you need a break from your pumps. Expect to spot them on the runway again next year, with or without a heel.
5. Barely-there Heels
If you're not about the height or you find tall heels uncomfortable, rejoice! This year, you can keep your heel as tiny as possible. Presenting -baby kitten heels. A trend that is sweet, delicate, and feminine. Spotted on the catwalks this season, Versace's lavender pair were especially fun and colorful, while at Acne Studios, they look sleek and simple.
6. Embellished Flats
Step into spring-summer 2021 wearing a pair of shoes that reflect your goddess-like vibrant energy. If you're looking for the right footwear to kick off the new season, start here. Embellished flats are no longer considered ‘too dressy’ to wear on a beach or for a casual market stroll. Own them, flaunt them, and strut away!
As we hope to be able to step back out into the world – we hope to slip into stylish shoes as well. Designers are placing bets on a future that requires comfortably chic footwear, and they are giving us some seriously luxe options to look forward to.