Let’s be honest—Gen Z and Millennials don’t exactly speak the same fashion language. While Millennials are still reaching for their skinny jeans and ankle booties, Gen Z is busy reviving retro trainers, chunky loafers, and anything that feels ironic, nostalgic, or deliberately chaotic (in a good way).
Footwear, in particular, is where the generational divide really shows. A shoe can instantly signal whether you’re trend-savvy or unknowingly clinging to 2016 Pinterest inspo. If you’re trying to tap into Gen Z aesthetics—or just avoid looking like you’re stuck in a millennial time loop—these are the 6 shoes that fit the Gen Z vibe perfectly, and 3 that scream “millennial core” in the worst way.
1. Sambas or Gazelles
Sleek and effortlessly cool, Adidas’ retro indoor trainers are having a massive Gen Z moment. These shoes resonate with a nostalgia for the past while being decidedly modern. Whether paired with wide-leg trousers, cargos, or mini skirts, they exude a sense of laid-back elegance.
Are they a nod to the sporty days of yore or a fresh expression of today’s style? The answer lies in their versatile appeal. Embracing both function and fashion, they are at home in any casual setting. Their minimalist design speaks volumes without having to shout.
2. Ugg Minis
Gone are the days of the towering Uggs; the ultra minis are the go-to for a cozy-cute look. Picture them with scrunch socks and sweats, or even daringly with pleated skirts. These boots add a touch of warmth and casual comfort to any ensemble. They invite you to relax, to enjoy the moment.
Ugg Minis have transformed from winter necessity to year-round staple, cherished for their snug appeal. Their versatility is their charm, making them an essential item in a Gen Z wardrobe.
3. Chunky Loafers
With a playful nod to academia, chunky loafers redefine what it means to be both preppy and edgy. Paired with white socks, mini skirts, and oversized blazers, these shoes are the heart of a mash-up that Gen Z adores. They effortlessly mix the polished with the punk, creating a vibe that’s both sophisticated and rebellious.
Who says you can’t have it all? These loafers celebrate individuality, embodying a free-spirited approach to fashion that refuses to conform. They’re bold, they’re chunky, and they’re unapologetically unique.
4. Retro Running Sneakers
Ugly-cute is the new cool, and retro running sneakers are leading the charge. Think Asics GEL-Kayanos or New Balance 530s, embodying a ‘dad shoe’ aesthetic that has been embraced with open arms. These sneakers are not just about performance; they’re about making a statement.
Whether hitting the trails or the city streets, they pair seamlessly with sporty or Gorp-core looks. Their charisma lies in their paradox: blending the unfashionable with the fashionable, they invite creativity and playfulness into everyday wear.
5. Ballet Flats (Worn Ironically)
Ballet flats have twirled back into the fashion spotlight, but with a twist of irony. Gen Z has reclaimed them, styling mesh, satin, or Mary Jane versions with sheer tights or laid-back denim. They’re not about being dainty; they’re about making a statement. This is footwear that plays with expectations, taking something traditionally delicate and giving it a bold new context.
With each step, they challenge norms and explore boundaries. Whether worn for a casual day out or an evening gathering, they’re all about intention and expression.
6. Platform Boots
Height, edge, drama—platform boots deliver all three with flair. From knee-highs to ankle versions, these boots redefine bold fashion statements. Perfectly paired with cargo pants, mini dresses, or layered ensembles, they add an extra dimension to any outfit.
They’re not just shoes; they’re an attitude. Platform boots invite you to stand tall, both literally and figuratively, embracing a sense of empowerment and confidence. They’re about making an entrance, turning heads, and leaving an impression. In a world of flats, they rise above the rest.
7. Suede Ankle Booties (Especially Almond-Toe)
Once the darling of millennial fashion, suede ankle booties now feel like a time capsule from the past. Especially in almond-toe designs, they speak to an era of skinny jeans and blanket scarves. But in today’s fashion landscape, they lack the boldness or irony that Gen Z favors.
These booties might whisper of past trends, but they struggle to find a foothold in the current style narrative. They are a reminder of how swiftly fashion evolves, leaving some pieces behind while others move forward.
8. Pointy Nude Pumps
Too polished, too corporate—pointy nude pumps struggle to keep pace with Gen Z’s casual, offbeat aesthetic. While they once symbolized a polished professional look, today they feel disconnected from the youthful, gritty vibe that defines modern style. In a world that values authenticity and comfort, these pumps seem out of touch.
They lack the playful edge and casual flair that resonate with the new generation. Perhaps there is a time and place for them, but it’s not here, not now.
9. Knit Sock Sneakers
Remember the stretchy, slip-on sock shoes that were all the rage on Instagram? Knit sock sneakers, often seen in blush pink or grey, are a comfort-forward relic of a past trend. They speak to a desire for ease but fail to capture the imagination of today’s fashion-forward crowd.
These shoes, once a staple of influencer wardrobes, have faded from the spotlight. They are a reminder of how swiftly trends can change, leaving behind what once seemed indispensable. Now, they’re a nod to a not-so-distant past.