Trend Report
‘90s-Inspired Winter Shoe Trends You Can Expect To See Everywhere
Mary Janes, satin styles, and more.
Winter shoes are really just an extension of fall shoe trends, with the obvious addition of heavier boots (usually lined with a range of fluffy materials). As temps get chillier, UGG boots and their cozy counterparts are pulled out of storage and reintroduced to the rotation. It’s the natural order of things.
This year, winter boots are getting a heavy makeover. A bevy of pillowy padded silhouettes have been popping up, as well as shearling-trimmed pairs, and ‘90s-esque looks that hug your calves. Beyond that, celebrities and other tastemakers have been sporting pared-down flats, like classic loafers and pristine, ballet-inspired styles finished off with dainty bows. Don’t worry, though, hefty platforms are hardly over (more on that ahead).
Thanks, in part, to their appearances at runway shows like Etro and Sportmax, party-ready pairs are also trending of late: Shiny, sparkly shoes of all kinds and eye-catching mules. All in all, there’s a lot on the footwear market to be inspired by, whether you like to keep your ‘fits smart and simple or jazzy and bold.
Ahead, read up on the trendiest winter shoes that you can expect to see all season long. Plus, pro tips on how to style them for yourself.
1Bubble Clogs
Lately, my feed has been littered with plump, curvy clogs that are as comfortable as they are chic. Ever since the Simon Miller slip-ons hit the market, the style has only grown in popularity. Now, they’re simply everywhere.
2Modern Wedges
You can always count on a height-boosting wedge to take your look to the next level. A sky-high style not only makes you taller, but instills a certain confidence in the wearer, too. Rock ‘em with a flowy dress, a midi skirt, or basically any style of pants.
3Mary Janes
Based on recent collections from the likes of Coach and Sandy Liang, I predict Mary Janes will be ubiquitous well into the spring. Rock the versatile silhouette with jeans or cozy leg warmers à la Bella Hadid.
4Puffer Boots
Another comfy style, fans of quilted puffer boots run the gamut from Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner to MGK. There’s no shortage of cool pairs on the market from brands like Prada, Farm Rio, and UGG, as well as Madewell and H&M.
5Retro-Inspired Sneakers
Currently, there’s a lot of love for comfortable sneakers reminiscent of decades past. Elsa Hosk, Emily Ratajkowski, and more have been spotted in New Balance’s retro 2002R Sneakers of late. Any vintage-inspired kicks that you can run around all day in will do, though.
6Minimalist Loafers
While the ardor for platform styles is still going strong, some among the fashion set — including Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner — have been stepping out in understated looks lately. Not long ago, Bieber paired a vintage biker jacket with baggy jeans and polished loafers from The Row for a date night. ‘Twas trés chic.
7Statement Mules
Though their backless design might feel more for summer, a pair of pretty socks will solve that quickly. Style a vibrant pair of chunky Y2K mules with sweatpants and a vintage tee and you’ll feel like Rihanna.
8Pointy Flats
Flats are definitely back in, and not just ultra-feminine ballet designs. New collections from Tory Burch, Molly Goddard, Roberto Cavalli, and Courrèges have all debuted pairs with sharp toes, which lend a certain sophistication to just about any outfit.
9Shiny Satin
Elegant footwear featuring a subtly shimmery, smooth finish — from clogs to boots and pumps — was seen on the catwalk at shows like Jil Sander, Ports 1961, and more. The fabric is perfect for fancier occasions, as it instantly dresses up a casual look like jeans and a tee.
10Calf Huggers
Boots that hit just below the knee and wrap around the calf are having a moment, like it’s 1998. From flat styles to stilettos to block-heeled silhouettes, I recommend wearing them with a knee-skimming skirt or a cute mini dress.
11Balletcore
Despite the weather growing colder, girly ballet flats have been steadily gaining traction since earlier this year. Warm them up with a pair of cashmere socks and/or leg warmers.
12Western Boots
Chloé and Missoni are just two brands that sent fresh takes on the classic cowboy boot down the runway last fall. Everyone from Emily Ratajkowski to Dua Lipa and Rihanna have been rocking the Western style recently. Sophie Turner, specifically, loves this star-stamped pair.
13Shearling Details
“Boots with the fur” is officially back. These Coach ankle booties would look great with a flowing dress, a chic matching set, or a chunky sweater and trousers.
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