We're always here for the latest fashion trends from dresses [1] to jeans, handbags [2] to jewellery [3] — heck, we even want to know the biggest colour trends [4] and must-have sunglasses [5] each season! A category not to be excluded? Shoes! And while we've already broken down the biggest sneaker trends for 2020 [6], there's a lot more in store for the new decade — think the latest in sandals, boots, flats, and heels.
After surveying the Spring/Summer 2020 runways, it became evident that shoe trends [7] were a bit all over the map. But this is great news! It means there's a style to please every aesthetic.
For die-hard minimalists [8] and those who err on the side of classic, modern loafers and thin and strappy sandals (otherwise known as the naked sandal [9]) are two of the biggest trends you'll see splashed across your Instagram feed, sported on the streets, and on just about every fashion-focussed woman you know for Spring. While we witnessed many an iteration of those so-thin-they're-nearly-dental-floss sandals [10] in 2019, the new-decade update comes a little brighter in zippy shades like tangerine, yellow, and blue (of course, fail-safe neutral remains on deck).
Another carry-over trend from 2019? Square-toe shoes [11] in just about every silhouette, heel height, and colour you can imagine. With a '90s feel, they're the perfect shoe trend to try if you're all about nostalgia or seeking out a subtle update to boots, flats, heels, or mules. Speaking of subtle updates, slanted heels also rank high on our list of shoe trends to try for 2020. This look riffs off the sculptural heel trend we've seen bubble up over the past few seasons — however, it's one of those superwearable, less in-your-face type of trends that feels achingly fresh.
As for shoe trends we love for evening or simply making a statement, lace-up silhouettes and shoes with extra adornments top our list. When it comes to the former, don't be afraid to embrace the street-style-approved trend of tying them up over pants [12]. As for the latter, I liken this trend a made-up term I call "shoe jewellery" — it includes heels, flats, and sandals with a built-in element like a chain-link or rhinestone strap for a fanciful touch. Fun, yes?
Not a heels girl? No problem. The "ugly" shoe movement [13] continues in 2020, with hefty lug soles and futuristic sneakers as frontrunners. This trend is all about utility and nonchalance; almost as if you don't care at all (even though we totally know you do).
Ready to dive deeper into the biggest shoe trends for Spring? All eight lie ahead, plus my edit of shoes to shop at a range of price points.
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Square Toes
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Modern Loafers
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Slanted Heels
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Lug Soles
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Colourful and Strappy
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Futuristic Sneakers
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Laced-Up
- Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Extra Adornment
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Square Toes
It's hip to be square! Already a unanimous hit among fashion girls, our favourite way to get in on the square-toe shoe trend for Spring is via sandals, whether a heeled mule, lace-up silhouette, or strappy stiletto.
Jeffrey Campbell Mr-Big Mules
Jeffrey Campbell Mr-Big Mules [15] ($135)
Mango Leather Strap Sandals
Mango Leather Strap Sandals [16] ($120)
Ganni Square Toe Sandals
Ganni Square Toe Sandals [17] ($267)
Wandler Isa Colour-Block Leather Mules
Wandler Isa Colour-Block Leather Mules [18] ($470)
Topshop Skyla Camel High Mules
Topshop Skyla Camel High Mules [19] ($68)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Modern Loafers
For 2020, the classic loafer is getting a makeover thanks to buzzy designers like Bottega Veneta, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. Whether it's a sleek leather flat style with polished hardware or a heeled version in a logo print, there's a loafer for every aesthetic this season — we love them best with jeans or tailored workwear.
ASOS DESIGN Simba Mid-Heeled Loafers
ASOS DESIGN Simba Mid-Heeled Loafers [20] ($56)
Massimo Dutti Cream Loafers
Massimo Dutti Cream Loafers [21] ($130)
Gucci Zumi GG Canvas and Suede Pumps
Gucci Zumi GG Canvas and Suede Pumps [22] ($890)
Malone Souliers Jane Loafers
Malone Souliers Jane Loafers [23] ($625)
Bottega Veneta Madame Leather Pumps
Bottega Veneta Madame Leather Pumps [24] ($1,050)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Slanted Heels
Though subtle, slanted heels are a subtle take on the sculptural heel trend. Whether you're here for a low-heel boot, multi-strap sandal, or minimal pump, this looks feels achingly fresh in any colour, silhouette, or heel height.
& Other Stories Croc Flared Heel Pumps
& Other Stories Croc Flared Heel Pumps [25] ($129)
By Far Lily Lizard-Effect Leather Mules
By Far Lily Lizard-Effect Leather Mules [26] ($430)
Rejina Pyo Marley 80mm Boots
Rejina Pyo Marley 80mm Boots [27] ($745)
Sophia Webster Rosalind Hourglass-Heel Suede Sandals
Sophia Webster Rosalind Hourglass-Heel Suede Sandals [28] ($475)
Khaite The Ankle Zebra Print Boots
Khaite The Ankle Zebra Print Boots [29] ($1,200)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Lug Soles
Part of the "ugly" shoe movement [30], lug-sole boots continue to be major for 2020. The key to pulling off this look with aplomb for Spring? Counterbalancing with slimmer pants or feminine staples like a dress or skirt.
Zara Soft Leather Ankle Boots
Zara Soft Leather Ankle Boots [31] ($169)
Dr. Martens 2976 Quad Chelsea Boot
Dr. Martens 2976 Quad Chelsea Boot [32] ($180)
Rag & Bone Shawn Chelsea Booties
Rag & Bone Shawn Chelsea Booties [33] ($550)
Koio Chelsea Onyx Boots
Koio Chelsea Onyx Boots [34] ($348)
Alexander Wang Andy Hiker Boots
Alexander Wang Andy Hiker Boots [35] ($695)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Colourful and Strappy
What the neutral naked sandal was to 2019, the colourful and strappy version is to 2020. Have fun with this barley-there shoe trend and explore on-trend colours [36] like sky blue, tangerine, and poppy red.
Steve Madden Amada Teal Leather Sandals
Steve Madden Amada Teal Leather Sandals [37] ($93)
Charles & Keith Toe Loop Strappy Slingback Heels
Charles & Keith Toe Loop Strappy Slingback Heels [38] ($46)
Proenza Schouler Leather Sandals
Proenza Schouler Leather Sandals [39] ($675)
The Row Bare Mid-Heel Leather Sandals
The Row Bare Mid-Heel Leather Sandals [40] ($790)
A.W.A.K.E. MODE Maya Leather Sandals
A.W.A.K.E. MODE Maya Leather Sandals [41] ($450)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Futuristic Sneakers
Sneaker trends have truly ebbed and flowed, but for Spring 2020, futuristic shapes are our new favourite with bright colours and sporty details at the crux.
Nike Zoom X Vista Grind Sneaker
Nike Zoom X Vista Grind Sneaker [42] ($160)
Puma Rise Sneakers
Puma Rise Sneakers [43] ($90)
FILA Trailpacer Slip-On Sneaker
FILA Trailpacer Slip-On Sneaker [44] ($90)
Balenciaga Triple S Low Top Sneaker
Balenciaga Triple S Low Top Sneaker [45] ($995)
New Balance 850 Sneaker
New Balance 850 Sneaker [46] ($100)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Laced-Up
Lace-up sandals and pumps aren't new, per se. But they're decidedly fresh when wrapped up around pants [47]. Of course, if this styling hack proves too bold for your taste, the look is equally chic with dresses, cropped pants, and skirts.
H&M Pumps With Ties
H&M Pumps With Ties [48] ($40)
Schutz Belize Sandal
Schutz Belize Sandal [49] ($185)
Reformation Brooke Heel
Reformation Brooke Heel [50] ($219)
Z_Code_Z Danika Heeled Sandals With Ankle Tie
Z_Code_Z Danika Heeled Sandals With Ankle Tie [51] ($42)
Aquazzura Isabel 75 Leather Sandals
Aquazzura Isabel 75 Leather Sandals [52] ($750)
Spring Shoe Trends 2020: Extra Adornment
Call it a chain reaction to Bottega Veneta's cult-loved stretch pumps, but shoes with jewellery-like adornments are the ultimate statement for Spring 2020. From evening sandals to mules and pumps, this shoe trend is utterly fresh and playful.
Topshop Rush White Chain Mini Heels
Topshop Rush White Chain Mini Heels [53] ($68)
Tamara Mellon 2 Chains Suede Heels
Tamara Mellon 2 Chains Suede Heels [54] ($495)
Staud Carla Beaded Satin Pumps
Staud Carla Beaded Satin Pumps [55] ($350)
Jimmy Choo Rav 65 Crystal-Embellished Satin Mules
Jimmy Choo Rav 65 Crystal-Embellished Satin Mules [56] ($1,350)
Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal-Embellished Patent-Leather Mules
Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal-Embellished Patent-Leather Mules [57] ($795)