Formerly Outdated Shoe Trends That Are Back In Style In 2025

Fashion and beauty lovers know that trends are cyclical, with once-popular styles and garments inevitably coming back into vogue as time goes on. In this way, there are several previously outdated fashion fads set to dominate 2025, with footwear seeing its own set of revived shoe styles. New iterations of these formerly popular pieces are often elevated with modernized twists or details, sometimes incorporating the fashion-forward footwear trends taking off in the new year, like metallic coloring or faux fur accents.

Women spoke exclusively to footwear and fashion experts to get all the necessary details on these up-and-coming style trends. Dawn Del Russo, fashion expert and CEO of Bella Dawn, filled us in on new ways to wear old styles, while Jo Hayes, etiquette expert, lifestyle/fashion consultant, and founder of Etiquette Expert, let us know about up-and-coming sneaker trends. Lastly, we also spoke to Brian Lim, founder and & CEO of iHeartRaves for all the details on revitalized classics.

We've seen plenty of platform pumps and pointed-toed stilettos in recent years, but wedged heels have been making a comeback alongside the resurgence of Y2K fashion. "Early 2000's loved the wedge[d] heels," Dawn Del Russo exclusively told Women. "The resurgence of 2000's influence brought the wedge style back into the picture."

It's likely that you've seen this chunky style of heel on Y2K celebs like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan, with the footwear being right at home along other revived trends like low-rise bottoms and oversized sunglasses. Still, wedge heels have also undergone a modernization, with Del Russo highlighting the leather Larroudé Women's Yves Wedge in burnt umber as a sleek and elevated example.

While sneakers are a form of footwear that never seem to go out of fashion, retro styles in particular are having a major moment. "It was hitting the high notes in the styles stakes in 2024, and it's only going to get louder this year," Jo Hayes told us, mentioning the P448 Monza sneakers in neon pink as a great example of the rising trend. If you're not a big fan of the bold colors that often accompany these retro-inspired designs, Hayes assures us that classic white will remain another trendy option.

Experts predict that Mary Janes will be another vintage favorite of the new year, with these closed-toe shoes coming in-and-out of fashion throughout the twentieth century. "Once regarded as prim and proper, these shoes are being completely transformed," Brian Lim exclusively told us. "Designers are now using chunky soles, prominent buckles, and other complimenting fabrics to make the Mary Janes more modern."

You can add these fashionable pieces to the list of staple shoes that add endless versatility to your closet, as Lim emphasizes that Mary Janes are very adaptable. "The trend appeals to a wide range of consumers–from minimalists who favor their classic charm to those craving bold, maximalist accents," he explains. "Its versatile style also caters to the modern need for multi-functional pieces."

Kitten heels are another formerly outdated shoe option that have come back into fashion, with the short height of this style making it a practical alternative to other heels. "After being very much adored back in the mid-20th century for their grace and practicality, they are now catching the attention of those looking for the perfect mix of comfort and elevated style," Brian Lim exclusively told Women, explaining that the shoe easily transitions from office settings to post-work environments.

You can use vintage kitten heels to channel icons like Audrey Hepburn, who frequently wore the style, or opt for the modernized renditions seen on it-girls like Kaia Gerber and Hailey Bieber. "Refreshing designs that include bright colors, metallics, and sculptural heels make these shoes appealing to consumers looking for functionality and flair," Lim added.

Another footwear fad you can expect to see this year are boat shoes, a traditionally preppy style often associated with brands like Sperry and Timberland. First designed for nautical use, these leather or canvas shoes feature a moccasin style toe and laces that weave through the heel cap. "These were worn by Jackie Kennedy ​in the 60's as a more preppy style," Dawn Del Russo explained, adding that they're typically worn in the summer and spring.

While boat shoes perfectly align with preppy aesthetics like coastal chic, Del Russo explains that alternative styling options will be popular this year. "Boat shoes inspired from the 2024 Miu Miu runway brought back the vintage style," the fashion expert said. "Styled away from the original preppy look and more edgy with micro skirts and shorts."