If you’re wondering what women are actually wearing in 2025, look down—because shoes are stealing the spotlight. From retro sneakers to sculptural heels, this year’s trends are anything but basic. I’ve rounded up the top 10 styles making waves right now, so you can step ahead—stylishly.
Trend #1: Statement Mary Janes — Buckled & Bold
Nothing says “main character” like a pair of modern Mary Janes. In 2025, they’re chunkier, shinier, and unapologetically playful. With stacked soles, oversized buckles, and glossy finishes, this throwback is officially grown-up.
Style Tip: Pair with wide-leg trousers and a cropped blazer for work, or go preppy-chic with a pleated mini and ruffled socks for brunch.
Miu Miu Patent Leather Mary Janes
A glossy black finish, bold double straps, and a stacked platform sole make these the ultimate power-play flats. Retro meets runway.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $960
Best For: Fashion events, nights out, editorial styling
Vagabond Cosmo 2.0 Mary Janes
These chunky-soled Mary Janes bring structure and statement in equal measure. The leather is smooth, and the fit is roomy for everyday strut.
Support Level: High
Price: $160
Best For: Workwear, jeans + blazer combos, downtown style
Steve Madden Delancy Mary Jane
A budget-friendly bold step—featuring a block heel, single strap, and glossy finish. Ideal for trying the trend without commitment.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $99.95
Best For: Casual chic, layering with socks, weekend wear
Trend #2: Techcore Sneakers — Futuristic Meets Functional
Sleek, sculpted, and straight out of a sci-fi edit—techcore sneakers are the future of fashion-forward comfort. Expect dynamic materials like mesh, neoprene, and reflective accents blended into silhouettes built for performance and style.
Style Tip: Pair with nylon cargos, techwear jackets, or oversized utility vests. For a softer look, wear with a ribbed maxi dress and a bomber.
ON Cloudmonster 2
Max cushion meets max propulsion. With a bold rocker silhouette and CloudTec® sole, this sneaker fuses techcore function with next-gen form.
Support Level: High
Price: $180
Best For: Daily wear, long walks, futuristic styling
Hoka Kawana 2
Responsive and sleek, the Kawana 2 delivers that cushy bounce with a minimal profile. Lightweight mesh and sculpted cushioning = techcore in motion.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $140
Best For: Light runs, errands, streetwear layering
Adidas Ozweego
Chunky yet streamlined, the Ozweego’s layered mesh and tubing details scream retro-future. A cult favorite that blends edge and ease.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $120
Best For: Techwear, Y2K nostalgia, normcore edits
Trend #3: Mesh Ballet Flats — Barely-There Beauty
Sheer, stretchy, and sweetly subversive—mesh ballet flats are having their moment. These whisper-light shoes bring ballerina grace with breathable texture and a modern twist. Perfect for the minimalist who loves a little flair.
Style Tip: Try with wide-leg linen pants or a satin slip skirt and oversized tee. Add sheer socks for a balletcore bonus.
Le Monde Beryl Mesh Mary Jane Flat
A dainty take on the trend with sheer mesh and a classic strap. It’s breathable, elegant, and versatile enough to dress up or down.
Support Level: Light
Price: $350
Best For: Minimalist outfits, summer dresses, quiet luxury edits
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat
With its mesh upper and sleek almond toe, this flat delivers comfort and sophistication. Sustainable, stylish, and utterly wearable.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $148
Best For: Work looks, capsule wardrobes, everyday polish
Dream Pairs Knit Mesh Ballet Flat
This affordable Amazon find features a breathable knit mesh upper, memory foam insole, and a sleek silhouette. Lightweight with a price you’ll love.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $36.99
Best For: Commuting, casual Fridays, packing light
Trend #4: Sculptural Heels — Walkable Art
These aren’t just heels—they’re wearable sculptures. From twisted metal to geometric cutouts and surrealist shapes, sculptural heels in 2025 turn footwear into a bold fashion statement. More than just height—they offer architecture underfoot.
Style Tip: Let the shoes do the talking. Pair with minimalist dresses, asymmetrical skirts, or wide-leg trousers that show off the heel’s shape.
Loewe Flower Heel Sandals
An icon already—these sandals feature a delicate rose-shaped heel that turns your walk into a blooming runway moment.
Support Level: Light
Price: $990
Best For: Art shows, fashion week, wedding guest looks
Jeffrey Campbell Bubblegum Heel
Playful yet sculpted, this bulbous heel balances quirky and modern design. Soft curves and a sleek toe give it a futuristic pop.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $155
Best For: Trendy dinners, artful dressing, bold edits
Schutz Altina Curved Heel Sandal
With a gold crescent heel and sleek upper straps, this standout stiletto balances elegance with a striking architectural form.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $138
Best For: Cocktail hours, evening wear, upscale events
Trend #5: Elevated Fisherman Sandals — Chunky Meets Chic
What was once practical is now fashion-forward. In 2025, fisherman sandals get a serious style lift with platform soles, luxe leathers, and refined hardware. They’re the off-duty shoe you didn’t know you needed—until now.
Style Tip: Style them with wide-leg trousers, a crisp button-down, or even socks and a blazer set for that runway-meets-reality moment.
The Row Fisherman Leather Sandals
A cult classic. Crafted in Italy from soft calf leather with an adjustable buckle and a clean, minimal design. Quiet luxury at its best.
Support Level: High
Price: $990
Best For: Luxury basics, tailored summer looks, minimalist wardrobes
Vagabond Cosmo Fisherman Platform Sandals
With a bold rubber sole and leather caged upper, this edgy take adds instant elevation—literally and stylistically—to your summer step.
Support Level: High
Price: $150
Best For: Casual tailoring, oversized denim, fashion-forward comfort
Dr. Martens Blaire Hydro Leather Fisherman Sandals
Stomp-ready and summer-proof. These chunky gladiator-style sandals come with an AirWair sole, buckled straps, and rebellious comfort built in.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $110
Best For: Edgy weekend fits, city strolls, festival outfits
Trend #6: Sock Boots 2.0 — Sharper, Sleeker, Stronger
Forget flimsy stretch boots—2025’s sock boots are structured, sharp, and packed with attitude. Think square toes, sturdy block heels, and tech-knit uppers that hug your ankles without slouching. They’re still sleek but now seriously walkable.
Style Tip: Wear them with a midi dress and a leather trench for drama, or tuck into cropped flares to show off the sculpted heel and sock fit.
AGL Pointed Stretch Knit Bootie
This Italian-made boot hugs your foot like a glove with its fine stretch-knit shaft and architectural heel. Sleek, luxe, and perfect for layering.
Support Level: High
Price: $495
Best For: Dressed-up errands, power suits, tailored sets
Jeffrey Campbell Siren Sock Boot
With a ribbed shaft, square toe, and low sculpted heel, the Siren boot brings a futuristic edge to your wardrobe at a great price point.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $175
Best For: Monochrome fits, streetwear looks, transitional seasons
Mango Stretch High-Heel Ankle Boots
A budget-friendly take on the trend, this sock boot delivers shape and sharpness with a square heel and snug silhouette—ideal for everyday wear.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $99.99
Best For: Workwear, capsule wardrobes, clean lines
Trend #7: Retro Dad Sneakers — Chunky and Charming
They’re clunky. They’re nostalgic. And in 2025, they’re cooler than ever. Retro dad sneakers are back with multi-layered soles, mesh uppers, and old-school logos that feel fresh all over again. They balance throwback attitude with everyday function.
Style Tip: Style with wide-leg jeans, tube socks, and a tucked-in tee for casual cool. Or go fashion-forward with a midi skirt and oversized sweatshirt combo.
New Balance 530 Sneakers
With mesh uppers, ABZORB cushioning, and vintage runner vibes, the 530s are your go-to for comfort and effortlessly cool dad energy.
Support Level: High
Price: $100
Best For: Everyday wear, streetwear layering, normcore looks
ASICS GEL-Kayano 14
This reissued 2000s icon blends performance tech with fashion flair—featuring mesh overlays, GEL cushioning, and serious retro runner appeal.
Support Level: High
Price: $150
Best For: Fashion collabs, throwback edits, comfort seekers
Nike Zoom Vomero 5
The dad sneaker you never knew you needed. Reflective hits, layered textures, and a chunky sole make this pair a fashion-favorite comeback.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $160
Best For: Athleisure, retro-core outfits, walking comfort
Trend #8: Luxe Pool Slides — Slide Into Softness
Once reserved for the cabana, slides are stepping into the spotlight. In 2025, they’re plush, padded, and polished—featuring puffed leather, bold branding, and cloud-like soles that turn casual comfort into high fashion.
Style Tip: Match with tailored joggers, wide-leg jeans, or flowy dresses. Add socks for cozy contrast or wear solo to show off your pedi.
Bottega Veneta Padded Leather Slides
These quilted leather slides are pure indulgence—ultra-plush with a minimalist silhouette and buttery-soft feel. The definition of elevated lounging.
Support Level: Light
Price: $650
Best For: Resort wear, luxury loungewear, chic minimalism
Nike Calm Slide
Simplified and smooth, this waterproof slide features a contoured footbed and rounded shape—bringing sporty style into your off-duty lineup.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $50
Best For: Travel days, errands, summer lounging
Freedom Moses Vegan Slides
Colorful, cruelty-free, and water-friendly—these slides are scented, slip-proof, and insanely comfy. A budget-friendly burst of personality.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $45
Best For: Pool parties, beach days, colorful wardrobes
Trend #9: Pointed Slingbacks — The Pointed Pivot
There’s something powerful about a pointed toe—and slingbacks make it sleek. In 2025, this classic silhouette returns with sculpted heels, sharp lines, and ultra-wearable height. They’re professional, polished, and unexpectedly playful.
Style Tip: Pair with cropped trousers or a midi skirt to show off the ankle strap. A slingback and sock combo? Surprisingly chic.
Prada Brushed Leather Slingback Pumps
With a sharply pointed toe, low flared heel, and logo detail, these Italian-made slingbacks are power moves in pump form.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $1,090
Best For: Boardroom to cocktail, luxury tailoring, status styling
Sam Edelman Michaela Slingback
Affordable elegance with a pointed toe, flared heel, and soft suede finish. Comfortable enough to wear all day and just bold enough to get compliments.
Support Level: Moderate
Price: $140
Best For: Office outfits, date-night looks, chic neutrals
Charles & Keith Gabine Slingback Pumps
These budget-friendly pointed slingbacks come with a modern square-edge vamp and gold-tone buckle for a stylish twist on the classic silhouette.
Support Level: Light
Price: $56
Best For: Budget capsules, desk-to-dinner, playful details
Trend #10: Utility Platform Loafers — Workwear with a Twist
In 2025, loafers are leveling up—literally. Thick lug soles, heavy-duty details, and elevated silhouettes give this preppy classic a bold, industrial reboot. They’re no longer just for the office—they’re street-style staples.
Style Tip: Team with pleated skirts, wide-leg trousers, or slouchy socks and a cropped sweater. They’re ideal for balancing feminine fits with grounded, chunky edge.
Prada Monolith Brushed Leather Loafers
These iconic chunky loafers feature a bold lug sole, glossy leather finish, and classic penny detail. Timeless luxury meets attitude.
Support Level: High
Price: $1,120
Best For: Statement office wear, fashion week, tailored co-ords
Vagabond Cosmo 2.0 Loafers
With chunky soles and sleek leather, these loafers walk the line between rugged and refined. A minimalist’s take on platform power.
Support Level: High
Price: $150
Best For: Day-to-night dressing, uniform looks, oversized tailoring
Steve Madden Lando Loafers
Bold but budget-friendly, these loafers pack a platform punch with a patent finish and lug sole that gives you both height and edge.
Support Level: Medium
Price: $99.95
Best For: Smart-casual styling, fall layering, Gen Z flair
Bonus: Late 2025 Shoe Trends You’ll See Everywhere
As we glide into fall and winter, the 2025 shoe trend landscape continues to shift—fusing practicality with playful experimentation. While summer 2025 shoe trends leaned into mesh flats and luxe slides, these upcoming innovations are pushing footwear into bold, futuristic territory. Here are four next-gen styles making quiet waves in the background of major spring 2025 runways—and soon, street style too.
🔹 Velcro Wrap Heels
Call it a sporty take on the kitten heel. Velcro-wrap closures are no longer reserved for sneakers or slippers. Expect to see strappy, angular sandals wrapped like techwear—equal parts edgy and ergonomic. Chloé and Stella McCartney are already teasing velcro-strap heels with recycled materials and tonal palettes, making them both sustainable and statement-making.
🔹 Tech-Infused Smart Shoes
Blending fashion trends and function, smart shoes now include biometric insoles, LED light accents, and temperature control—all without compromising on silhouette. Khaite debuted a lace-up hybrid that tracks steps while looking like a sculpted boot. Expect Dries Van Noten to follow suit, pairing luxe uppers with wearable tech by fall.
🔹 3D-Printed Footwear
From flip-flop styles to woven shoes and futuristic clogs, 3D-printed pairs offer a custom fit and near-zero waste production. These are showing up in monochrome tones and textural finishes—perfect for minimalist wardrobes. Ulla Johnson is rumored to explore this in her next drop, following the success of her boho-meets-architecture aesthetic.
🔹 Inflatable & Modular Shoes
These aren’t toys—they’re runway-ready. Think interchangeable soles, detachable straps, and even snakeskinValentino and Jacquemus are teasing inflatable uppers on padded wedge platforms, perfect for avant-garde editors and street style stars.
While classics like loafers, boat shoes, and thong sandals remain strong in the spring shoe trends lineup, these cutting-edge styles are reshaping the way we think about footwear. The 10 shoe trends you’ll see now feel grounded in nostalgia, but what’s next? Think smart, shapeshifting, and sustainability-first. And yes, you’ll still want that perfect pair of sneakers to balance it all out.
Whether you’re into street style, practicality, or pushing the envelope with brands like Fendi, Rachel Comey, or Isabel Marant—these emerging styles are the 10 best to bookmark before they take over your IG feed. Late spring 2025 is all about being bold without breaking your stride.
