The Fashion Memo

Stay A Step Ahead With These Chic Spring Shoe Trends

From ’90s power pumps to statement animal-print and preppy loafers, these are the key shoe trends to complete your look this season

Words Colleen RossFashion editor Millie Parry
Fashion
Step out in sleek and sophisticated ’90s-inspired pumps à la Jennifer Lawrence

’90s pumps

With ultra-elegant takes on power suiting spotted all over the spring/summer 2026 runways and a new TV series documenting the life and style of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy dropping imminently, it makes perfect sense that ’90s pumps are trending again. Making their debut in the pre-spring ’26 collection, Khaite’s leather ‘Celia’ pumps are designed in a loafer-inspired shape complete with a buckled front flap, while Amina Muaddi’s croc-effect ‘Barbara’ heels come in the perfect desk-to-dinner silhouette. Alternatively, show you mean business in Toteme’s patent-leather slingbacks – the elongated pointed toe creates a unique point of difference.

Retro sneakers

Retro sneakers have quickly become every tastemaker’s favorite way to finish both on- and off-duty looks – their low profile and streamlined shape mean they go with pretty much everthing. Perfect paired with a slouchy suit or wide-leg jeans, Loewe’s ‘Ballet Runner 2.0’ sneakers come in burgundy shell and suede with cursive teal leather logo appliqués at the sides and are a fashion-editor favorite. Saint Laurent, Dries Van Noten and Chloé also have excellent options in sporty, ’70s- and ’80s-inspired shapes.

Whatever the occasion, retro sneakers are always an effortlessly chic choice
Amanda Seyfried was spotted wearing classic penny loafers in New York

Back to school

It’s official: preppy loafers and brogues have become a staple among the fashion set. If you have yet to be tempted by a pair, this season’s line-up might just change your mind. A modern take on ’70s styles, Saint Laurent’s ‘Le Loafer’ is made from chocolate suede, while Church’s ‘Piper’ brogues recall traditional Ghillie styles but with a punkish edge. For something a touch more office-appropriate, The Row’s ‘Novus Sailor’ boat shoes are the perfect pick.

Like a glove

Can shoes with a glove-like fit be chic? The answer among tastemakers and designers (and us here at the NET-A-PORTER HQ) is a resounding yes. Although it’s one of the most divisive shoe trends in recent seasons, brands have stood firm in championing the style, transforming everything from ballet flats to heeled pumps in foot-hugging silhouettes. The prettiest flats come courtesy of Bottega Veneta and Le Monde Béryl, while Alaïa and Khaite deliver heels with high vamps for a super-snug fit.

Party mules

The ’90s isn’t the only decade we’re obsessing over this season – the early ’00s are having a moment too, with brands including Tom Ford and Dries Van Noten heralding the return of the stiletto-heeled mule. For the truest take, opt for styles in eye-catching colors, such as Aquazzura’s ‘Mystery’ mules in fuchsia chiffon or Amina Muaddi’s ‘Elodie’ mules in sumptuous lipstick-red satin. Alternatively, go full Carrie Bradshaw in Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Jadaron’ style.

Glove-like shapes are all the rage, as seen on the street-style set
From snake-effect flats to zebra-print pumps, everybody’s embracing the trend for animal attitude

Animal instinct

The beauty of animal print is its ability to shape-shift from timeless neutral to fierce accent, depending on how it’s worn. Looking to make a glamorous statement? Jimmy Choo’s leopard-print ‘Amelia’ kitten heels will give your trusty LBD a whole new look. For the perfect day-to-night option, try Khaite’s ‘Ona’ ankle boots. Crafted from zebra-print calf hair, they’re sure to make tailoring and shirt dresses pop.

Prepare your rotation for warmer weather with this season’s chicest thong sandals

Thong sandals

Buying sandals in February might feel somewhat jarring, but trust us, your future self will thank you for it. The season’s must-have style? Thong sandals. Whether you’re jetting off to a far-flung island or heading out-out in the city, there’s a pair to suit all occasions, from desk-to-dinner heels to casual flats. Le Monde Béryl’s beige suede sandals have a low wedge heel and look impossibly chic paired with tailoring and denim alike.

Day-to-night boots

Everyone needs a pair of boots that are versatile enough to wear to the office, dinner and every other event in between. Gianvito Rossi’s block-heeled ‘Vitello Glove’ boots will ensure you look polished no matter where your plans take you, while Khaite’s ‘Nevada’ style in two-tone leather has Western-inspired detailing that looks ultra chic peeking out beneath the hem of tailored pants. Elsewhere, Saint Laurent’s ‘Niki’ boots come with pirate-style folded cuffs that nod to the season’s New Romantics trend.

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