Not all shoes are created equal—and some seriously need to step aside. This summer, fashion stylists are calling it like it is: the footwear game is shifting, and if your closet still clings to chunky dad sneakers or basic flip-flops, it might be time for a style refresh. The good news? 2025’s trending shoes are as fun as they are fashion-forward.
From sleek metallics to reimagined jellies and breezy raffia textures, the hottest styles are equal parts comfort and cool. Meanwhile, the “so last year” crew? They’re getting the boot—literally. So before you hit add to cart, check out this breakdown of what’s in and what’s officially out—straight from the stylists who know exactly what’s strutting down the streets (and what’s headed for fashion exile). Let’s get into it.
1. Metallic Heels and Flats
The metallic sheen of gold and silver shoes is captivating fashion enthusiasts this summer. Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez have been seen wearing these dazzling heels, turning heads everywhere. The shimmering effect adds a touch of glamour to any outfit, making it perfect for both day and night events.
Whether you’re attending a wedding or a rooftop party, metallic footwear is your go-to choice for a chic and polished look. These shoes provide a modern yet timeless appeal, reflecting light with every step you take. Their versatility allows them to pair effortlessly with both casual and formal attire, making them an essential addition to your summer wardrobe.
2. Retro Low-Top Sneakers
Retro low-top sneakers are making waves this season, replacing the once-dominant chunky styles. Brands like Puma and Onitsuka Tiger are at the forefront of this trend, offering designs that appeal to both nostalgia and modernity. These sneakers provide a sleek silhouette that pairs well with various summer outfits.
Their understated elegance makes them suitable for both casual outings and semi-formal occasions. Embracing soft, muted colors and classic materials, these shoes effortlessly blend with denim or tailored trousers. This trend not only celebrates a return to simplicity but also underscores the timeless appeal of sporty, vintage fashion. Embrace the past with a contemporary twist!
3. Jelly Sandals
Jelly sandals are stepping back into the fashion limelight, bringing a playful touch to summer wardrobes. Reimagined for adults, these sandals offer modern designs infused with nostalgia. With bright colors and translucent materials, they evoke memories of childhood summers while providing a chic look for today. Perfect for beach outings or casual city strolls, jelly sandals are both fun and functional.
Their flexibility and comfort make them a practical choice for warm weather. As they adapt to adult fashion needs, these sandals merge youthful exuberance with contemporary style, ensuring they remain a beloved summer staple.
4. Woven and Raffia Sandals
Natural textures are taking center stage this summer with woven and raffia sandals leading the charge. These breathable and stylish options are perfect for those hot summer days. Their intricate designs add a unique flair to any outfit, from sundresses to casual shorts. The use of natural materials not only offers comfort but also aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable fashion.
These sandals, with their earthy tones and organic feel, provide a refreshing break from synthetic materials. Their versatility makes them a fantastic addition to both casual and dressy outfits, embodying the essence of laid-back elegance.
5. Fisherman Sandals
Combining practicality with style, fisherman sandals are the go-to choice for versatile summer footwear. Their design, characterized by interlocking straps, offers both breathability and support. Ideal for various summer activities, these sandals effortlessly transition from beach days to evening dinners. The chic yet sturdy construction appeals to fashion-forward individuals seeking a blend of comfort and elegance.
Available in a range of colors and materials, they complement diverse outfits, from casual beachwear to smart casual ensembles. Fisherman sandals represent a timeless investment in style and functionality, a must-have for any summer wardrobe.
6. Clog Sandals
Embracing the bohemian spirit, clog sandals are making a stylish comeback this summer. Known for their comfort and retro charm, these sandals are perfect for those seeking a blend of fashion and functionality. The wooden soles and thick straps provide a unique aesthetic that stands out. They pair beautifully with long, flowing dresses or casual jeans, offering a versatile option for various occasions.
The resurgence of clogs highlights a shift towards styles that prioritize ease and individuality. Perfect for a day at the market or a leisurely walk in the park, clog sandals are a delightful addition to any summer collection.
7. Chunky ‘Dad’ Sneakers
Once the epitome of cool, chunky ‘Dad’ sneakers are now losing their foothold in the fashion world. These bulky sneakers, known for their exaggerated soles, are being replaced by sleeker, more refined designs. The shift away from this trend signals a growing preference for minimalist and streamlined footwear.
While once embraced for their boldness, these sneakers now seem clunky and overbearing. As fashion evolves, the demand for more subtle and versatile options increases. Though they once dominated street style, their prominence is fading as consumers seek simplicity and elegance in their shoe choices.
8. Plastic Flip-Flops
The era of basic plastic flip-flops is drawing to a close, as more refined thong sandals take their place. These traditional flip-flops, once a ubiquitous symbol of casual comfort, are now seen as too simplistic and lacking in style. As fashion moves towards more sophisticated designs, the demand for plastic flip-flops diminishes.
Their lack of support and durability contrasts sharply with the more elegant alternatives now available. As consumers prioritize quality and design, these once-beloved sandals are stepping aside, making room for options that offer both aesthetic appeal and comfort.
9. Overly Branded Slides
Footwear emblazoned with oversized logos is quietly fading from the style scene. Overly branded slides, once a staple in casual fashion, are being replaced by minimalist designs that offer timeless appeal. The shift towards understated elegance reflects a broader trend in fashion, where subtlety and sophistication take precedence.
These slides, once praised for their bold statement, now seem outdated and overly commercial. As consumers lean towards designs that speak to personal style rather than brand allegiance, the prominence of logo-centric footwear diminishes, paving the way for more versatile and chic alternatives.
10. Heavy Platform Wedges
The once-popular heavy platform wedges are stepping down as elegance and simplicity take center stage in footwear trends. These clunky wedges, characterized by their thick soles, are giving way to lighter, more refined options. As fashion embraces subtlety, the demand for bulky designs wanes.
These wedges, once celebrated for their height and drama, now seem cumbersome and out of touch with current trends. The shift towards more graceful and versatile styles highlights a move towards footwear that complements a wide range of outfits without overwhelming them. Lighter shoes are now the preferred choice for modern fashionistas.
11. White Sneakers with Bare Ankles
The pairing of white sneakers with bare ankles is gradually losing its allure. Once seen as the epitome of casual chic, this trend is now being set aside in favor of visible socks. Fashion stylists suggest this change to refresh the look, adding a subtle twist to classic sneakers.
The visible sock adds a new layer of style, transforming the once-simple ensemble into something more contemporary and engaging. As fashion evolves, so do the ways we accessorize footwear, leading to innovative combinations that redefine everyday wear. This shift marks a new chapter in sneaker styling.
12. Ballet Flats
Traditional ballet flats are undergoing a significant transformation, stepping aside to make room for updated versions with modern twists. These classic shoes, once a staple in every wardrobe, are being reimagined with materials like mesh and woven fabrics to offer a contemporary feel. As fashion seeks fresh interpretations of timeless styles, traditional flats find themselves being reinvented.
While they maintain their ease and comfort, the new designs breathe life into this beloved footwear, making them suitable for today’s fashion-conscious individuals. The evolution of ballet flats illustrates the ever-changing landscape of style, where innovation meets tradition.