4 Shoe Trends To Avoid In 2025 Unless You Want To Look Outdated
Famous footwear enthusiast Carrie Bradshaw knew that walking in a woman's shoes wasn't always easy. That's why she argued, "We need really special ones now and then to make the walk a little more fun." Never a word so true. But in a fashion's fast-moving trend cycle, the line between timeless and tired can blur rather quickly.
2025 has presented us with an interesting juncture in fashion. This year's Pinterest Predicts report suggests a shift towards fantasy and nostalgia. Trends like "Castlecore," "Rococo Revival," and "Goddess Complex" point to a collective craving for escapism, while "Terra Future" and "Sea Witchery" embrace nature and mysticism. At the same time, bold color palettes are pointing to a desire for loud, conspicuous, unapologetic self-expression. And naturally, some of these themes are making their way down to our toes, shaping the emerging shoe trends of the year.
Of course, the best shoes are the ones that make you feel good — trend cycle be damned! But if you're looking to keep your wardrobe fresh, there are some styles ready to step aside, while others are just hitting their stride.
Say ciao to chunky sneakers
The reign of the chunky sneaker is officially over. Once considered a must-have, styles like the Nike Dunk, the Golden Goose, and New Balance 550s have gradually fallen out of favor. Now, we're stepping into a more minimalist era of footwear, and court sneakers are setting the trend, says fashion stylist and lifestyle expert Joseph Katz.
"These shoes are dominating the top designer runway shows and so easy to pair with casual looks. I am loving these sleek sporty silhouettes transcending from athletic wear to a fashion staple," Katz exclusively tells Women.com.
We've already seen hints of this transition with the rise of the trendy Puma SpeedCat OG, a racing-inspired sneaker that's been embraced by A-listers like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Emily Ratajkowski. Other alternatives include the 80s-infused Onitsuka Tiger Tokuten, the New Balance RC30 — a low-profile, retro take on classic runners, or the Adidas Taekwondo.
Loafer mules have lost their luster
This year, the office sirens among us are trading in backless loafer mules for something with more structure: the flat loafer. Where mules embraced an effortless, slip-on ease, their polished successor delivers both style and substance.
Katz sees this evolution as a game-changer. "I'm executed to see the loafer's evolution into something truly wearable," noting that the latest styles "ditch the traditional penny strap in favor of softer, more flexible constructions," he tells us. In this vein, designers are prioritizing buttery leather, supple soles, and "quiet luxury" silhouettes.
There are several strong contenders leading this loafer revival. Gucci's Jordaan Loafer boasts an elongated toe and its signature horsebit hardwear to pay tribute to the brand's equestrian heritage. Meanwhile, Prada's Brushed Leather Loafers reign supreme as one of the most sought-after styles of the season. Katz also points to Koio's Brera style, as well as Arrezo's Emma Loafer as alternatives that deliver the style without the designer price tag. Musshoe Pointed Toe Flats is another budget-friendly option.
Platforms have passed their prime
Following the pattern of footwear slimming down for 2025, the sky-high platform is finally taking a backseat — sorry, Sabrina Carpenter! Instead, we are seeing the refined silhouette of the slingback heel rising to the top.
Katz views the shift as a positive progression, describing the slingback's "relaxed vibe with an elegant touch" as a versatile style that can easily transition between casual and formal looks. The silhouette has long been a wardrobe staple, but Katz points out that designers are now pushing it in adventurous new directions, experimenting with jewelled embellishments and sculptural details.
Dolce Vita's Patzy heel is a case in point: this modernized slingback takes the classic elements of the shoe, but deviates with a double-strap and an oversized gold buckle. Elsewhere, the Toteme slingback offers an artistic approach to the design, with an interesting curved wedge heel.
Square-toe sandals are slipping away
According to Katz, the era of the square-toe sandal is now winding down, and in its place, comes a chunkier alternative: the clog. Once a '70s staple, clogs are among the many formerly outdated shoe trends expected to experience a full revival in 2025, dominating both the runways and the streets.
While the minimalist styles certainly still have their place, Katz notes that "fashion houses are reimagining the silhouette with modern touches like pointed toes and playful metal embellishments." He recommends looking to New York's fashion crowd to "pair them with socks for an unexpected, contemporary twist that's both practical and surprisingly chic."
Katz notes that Miu Miu, Burberry, and Ulla Johnson are leading the clogged charge, matching them with free-spirited, boho-inspired modes. If you're ready to channel your inner Woodstock, you can try pairing The Drop Francine Clog in Sand or Sandgrens' Homemade Swedish Heel Clog with the Anrabess Boho Flowy Wrap Dress. We know they're controversial, but love them or loathe them, this time, they're more stylish than ever.