Step into the future: the biggest footwear trends from the global runways
From Paris to Milan, the verdict is in on the shoes of the season
Every fashion enthusiast knows that an outfit, no matter how meticulously planned, is only as good as its shoes. Footwear has the transformative power to elevate a simple look, ground an avant-garde ensemble, or inject a much-needed dose of personality. As the dust settles on the latest global fashion weeks, from the storied ateliers of Paris to the vibrant streets of Milan, a clear picture has emerged of the footwear trends that will be dominating our wardrobes. Here at KIQIZ, we’ve been poring over every runway show and street style look to bring you the ultimate guide to the shoes you need to know about. Get ready to put your best foot forward.
The dominant themes of the season
Before we dive into specific styles, it’s worth noting the overarching mood on the runways. This season is a beautiful contradiction. On one hand, there’s a powerful pull towards refined practicality and understated elegance. Think clean lines, comfortable heights, and timeless silhouettes. On the other, a spirit of playful rebellion and artistic expression is undeniable, seen in sculptural forms, high-shine finishes, and unapologetically bold colors. The message is clear: personal style reigns supreme. Whether you’re a minimalist at heart or a maximalist in the making, there’s a runway-approved shoe trend waiting for you.
The delicate return of the kitten heel
For years, we’ve oscillated between towering platforms and ultra-flat shoes, but the pendulum is swinging back to a graceful middle ground. The kitten heel is officially back, and it’s more sophisticated than ever.
Why it’s trending
Spotted on the runways of Prada, Gucci, and Dior, the modern kitten heel is sharp, chic, and surprisingly versatile. It offers a touch of elevation without the discomfort of a stiletto, making it the perfect choice for long days that blend work and play. This trend signals a collective desire for polished, grown-up dressing that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. It’s a nod to classic femininity, reimagined for the contemporary woman.
How to style it
The beauty of the kitten heel lies in its adaptability. Pair pointed-toe slingbacks with tailored, wide-leg trousers for a sleek office look. For a weekend brunch, try a pair with straight-leg denim and an oversized blazer to instantly elevate a casual staple. They also work beautifully with midi skirts and dresses, adding a delicate touch that feels both intentional and effortless. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have already been spotted embracing the trend, proving its street-style credibility.
High-shine metallics are taking over
Move over, neutrals. This season’s standout footwear trend is all about high-impact, reflective shine. From liquid silver boots to gleaming gold sandals, metallics are no longer reserved for evening-only affairs.
From silver boots to golden sandals
Designers went all-in on futuristic and glamorous finishes. We saw dazzling chrome boots striding down the runway at Rabanne and delicate silver sandals at Valentino. The trend extends beyond just gold and silver; iridescent finishes and mirrored surfaces are also making waves. This isn’t a subtle shimmer; it’s a bold, look-at-me statement that exudes confidence and a touch of disco-era glamour.
Making a statement day or night
Bringing this trend into your daily wardrobe is easier than you think. The key is to let the shoes be the star of the show. Anchor a pair of statement silver boots with an all-black or monochrome outfit. A pair of metallic ballet flats or loafers can add an unexpected pop to your favorite jeans and a simple white t-shirt. For a night out, go all the way with metallic heels paired with a vibrant dress for a look that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Ballet flats get a modern makeover
The ballet flat has pirouetted back into the fashion spotlight, but this is not the flimsy, round-toed version of the mid-2000s. The contemporary ballet flat is structured, chic, and endlessly cool.
Not your childhood ballet slippers
Fuelled by the pervasive “balletcore” aesthetic, designers have reimagined this classic shoe. Look for squared-off toes, as seen at Chanel, or sharp, pointed silhouettes. Details are key: delicate ankle straps, subtle hardware, and luxurious materials like satin, velvet, and supple leather elevate the style. Brands like Miu Miu have been at the forefront, offering versions with utilitarian straps that add a modern edge to the shoe’s inherent sweetness.
The new go-to for everyday chic
The modern ballet flat is the perfect punctuation mark for almost any outfit. They bring a sense of effortless Parisian chic when worn with cropped trousers and a striped knit. Juxtapose their femininity by pairing them with baggy, low-slung denim. They also provide a comfortable and stylish alternative to heels when worn with slip dresses or tailored shorts. It’s a testament to their versatility that they look just as good in the office as they do running weekend errands.
Sculptural heels as wearable art
For the bold and the fashion-forward, footwear is becoming a canvas for artistic expression. This season, designers are playing with form and function, creating heels that are nothing short of wearable sculptures.
Wearable works of art
At Loewe, we saw surrealist heels shaped like crushed roses and nail polish bottles. Ferragamo presented creatively curved, geometric heels, while Bottega Veneta continued its exploration of unique, architectural forms. These are not just shoes; they are conversation starters. This trend is about embracing creativity and showcasing a piece of design artistry on your feet.
Letting your shoes do the talking
When your shoes are this dramatic, the rest of your outfit can take a step back. Style a pair of sculptural heels with a minimalist slip dress, a sleek jumpsuit, or a simple, well-cut suit. The clean lines of your clothing will create the perfect backdrop to highlight the intricate design of your footwear. This is a trend for moments when you want your accessories to take center stage.
The tough-luxe appeal of biker boots
On the other end of the spectrum from delicate flats and heels is the rise of the rugged, utilitarian biker boot. This trend brings a welcome dose of rebellious energy to the fashion landscape.
Tough love for your wardrobe
Characterized by heavy-duty soles, multiple buckles, and a deliberately worn-in look, the biker boot is all about attitude. Miu Miu’s heavily buckled versions became an instant cult classic, seen on every major style icon. This trend taps into a desire for durable, practical, and empowering fashion that can withstand the demands of a busy life while still making a strong style statement.
Juxtaposing the hard with the soft
The most modern way to wear the biker boot is by playing with contrast. The tough, grounded nature of the boot looks incredible when paired with hyper-feminine pieces. Think a floral prairie dress, a slinky silk slip skirt, or even a sheer, frothy tulle creation. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic and interesting silhouette that feels both strong and soft, perfectly capturing the modern fashion mood.
The power of a saturated hue
While classic black and brown will always have their place, the runways were awash with bold, saturated color. From fiery reds to brilliant blues, shoes are the new playground for color experimentation.
A pop of personality
Cherry red has emerged as the undeniable color of the season, seen on everything from pumps to boots. But the trend doesn’t stop there. Cobalt blue, kelly green, and even vibrant sunshine yellow made a strong case for vibrant footwear. This trend is about injecting joy and personality into your wardrobe from the ground up. It’s a powerful tool for self-expression and an instant mood booster.
The ultimate accessory
A colorful shoe is the perfect way to dip your toe into a more adventurous color palette without committing to a full look. Use a pair of bright red heels to add life to a classic jeans-and-blazer combination. Try color-blocking by pairing green shoes with a pink dress. Or, create a striking monochromatic look by matching your shoes to your outfit. The possibilities are endless.
Final thoughts: stepping into the new season
The latest footwear trends from the global runways offer a rich and diverse tapestry of styles. There is a renewed appreciation for timeless elegance in the form of kitten heels and ballet flats, a celebration of bold self-expression through metallics and sculptural forms, and an embrace of rugged practicality with biker boots. The key takeaway is the freedom to choose. Fashion is providing the options, and it’s up to us to decide which shoe fits our personal narrative. So, whether you’re stepping out in a delicate slingback or a heavy-duty boot, walk with confidence. What runway shoe trend are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!
