The 7 Shoe Trends To Know For 2025 And Beyond
From ’90s-style thong sandals to statement slingbacks and power platforms, these are the key shoe trends that will put a spring in your step this season
Thong sandals
Fashion can’t resist a ’90s throwback – and it’s thong sandals that have everyone excited this season. Embrace the decade’s sleek minimalism with styles by Aeyde and Gianvito Rossi, both set on manageable stiletto heels and perfect for alfresco dinner dates or drinks. For relaxed days in the city, or on vacation, flats are the way to go, making The Row’s ‘Dune’ flip flops a trusty investment – their tomato-red rubber soles will add a welcome pop of color to neutral outfits, too.
Square-toe
A touch more directional than their pointy counterparts, square-toe shoes have quickly become every cool girl’s favorite for adding a fashion-forward edge to outfits. Khaite’s sculptural ‘Eva’ pumps from the Resort ’25 collection are crafted from smooth brown calf hair with exaggerated curved vamps, while Neous’s ‘Kamui’ sandals have a graphic cutout silhouette inspired by modern architecture. Complement the angular proportions with a dropped-waist dress or sharp-shouldered suit. On casual days, slip on Emme Parsons’ flip flops with a pair of slouchy, low-slung jeans and an oversized shirt.
Jellies
It’s official: jelly shoes are back – and now so much chicer, thanks to Chloé’s Chemena Kamali. Debuted on the SS25 runway, the brand’s pastel-hued PVC sandals immediately went to the top of every fashion editor’s summer wish list. A grown-up version of the styles you might remember from childhood, these jellies have a sleek thong silhouette and a petal-shaped heel that makes them appropriate for special occasions. Elsewhere, Aquazzura’s version are traced with shimmering crystals, while Ancient Greek Sandals’ ‘Iro’ ballet-flat jellies have a sheer mesh design. You can wear them to the beach, and even for a dip in the sea.
Statement animal print
The beauty of animal print is its ability to shapeshift from timeless neutral to fierce accent, depending on how it’s worn. Looking to make a glamorous statement? Channel your inner ‘Mod Wife’ with Jimmy Choo’s leopard-print ‘Skye’ mules – just be sure to show them off with mini hemlines. For something a touch more office-appropriate, try Gabriela Hearst’s ‘Delia’ slingbacks from the SS25 runway. Crafted from leather and appliquéd to resemble zebra stripes, they’re sure to make tailoring and shirt dresses pop. Alternatively, keep things casual with Dries Van Noten’s retro snake-effect leather sneakers.
Woven leather
Artisanal textures are trending in a big way this season, and not just in ready-to-wear. Shoes crafted from mesh and woven leather were spotted all over the SS25 runways at the likes of Gabriela Hearst, Jacquemus and Stella McCartney. Crafted in Italy by skilled artisans, Le Monde Béryl’s classic ‘Regency’ ballet flats are updated in braided white leather decorated with dainty bows. They’ll go with everything, but look especially chic with a linen co-cord or floral-print midi dress this summer. Elsewhere, Loewe’s sandals from its latest collaboration with Paula’s Ibiza have wide, lattice-like straps and rest on playful, toy-shaped heels.
Chocolate brown
Chocolate brown is sticking around for SS25, and is set to make a big impression on our summer wardrobes, especially shoes and accessories. A.Emery’s ‘Heidi’ sandals come in rich walnut-colored leather and will look elegant paired with a butter-yellow dress or linen suit, while Bally’s ‘Pathy’ boat shoes will add a preppy feel to off-duty denim. Alternatively, embrace timeless elegance with Valentino Garavani’s croc-effect ‘Bowow Décolleté’ pumps – the dainty buckles and block heel nod to vintage styles.
Power platforms
The return of boho over recent seasons has meant that platforms are firmly back on the fashion agenda – who can forget that image of Sienna Miller, Georgia Jagger and Jerry Hall sat front row at Chloé’s FW24 show, all wearing the brand’s ‘Maxime’ sandals? Styles joining the ranks for SS25 include Valentino Garavani’s embellished leather platform sandals, which have an undeniable ’70s spirit, and Gabriela Hearst‘s chunky ‘Ares’ mules in mocha suede. If you prefer styles with more of an edge, then look no further than Bally’s ‘Pasely’ sandals – the thick cutout straps are detailed with studs, perforations and buckles for a punkish feel.
How to look after your shoes
Here’s how to ensure your shoes last longer, according to expert repair-and-alterations service The Seam…
1. Brush away dried dirt with a dry cloth or brush
The Seam recommends having shoes and boots professionally cleaned periodically to help keep leather in pristine condition. Prior to a professional cleaning, dried dirt, mud or dust can be brushed away with a dry towel or brush.
2. Air out shoes before storing away
In the case of shoes and heels that are only worn on occasion, these should be stored away from sunlight and in a dust bag to protect the surfaces. Prior to storing shoes away, they should be allowed to air out in a well-ventilated space for at least 24 hours. You can also wipe out the interiors with a lightly damp cloth, dry them with a dry cloth, and then place tissue inside the shoes before placing them in a dust bag.
3. High-quality rubber sole protectors can renew well-worn pairs
At The Seam, cobblers can transform beaten-down soles with rubber protectors to give well-worn shoes a new protective surface. This is done by filing down some of the original sole and crafting a leather protector to fit the surface. This can also be done when shoes are initially purchased, to prevent future damage to delicate soles.
Find out how to extend the life of your clothes with our Repair & Rewear service, powered by The Seam