5 shoe trends that are in this season and 4 that are out, according to stylists
As winter approaches, shoe trends are shifting, and stylists are predicting that certain styles will dominate the season. According to insights from professional stylists featured in a recent Business Insider article, the footwear landscape is evolving, with a focus on comfort and practicality. Boat shoes, low-profile sneakers, and chunky lug-sole boots are set to be the go-to choices for fashion-forward individuals looking to stay stylish and warm. Boat shoes are experiencing a revival, with their nostalgic appeal and versatility making them a staple for both casual and polished looks. Designers are reimagining this classic style with modern shapes and colors, making them easy to incorporate into any wardrobe.
Low-profile sneakers are also gaining popularity, with a trend towards slimmer, retro-inspired designs that emphasize minimalism. These sneakers, often in neutral shades, are perfect for complementing a variety of outfits without overwhelming them. Chunky Chelsea boots, characterized by their lug soles, are expected to remain a favorite as they pair well with wide-leg pants, providing a balanced silhouette for the cooler months. Additionally, slip-on mules and clogs are becoming everyday staples, appealing to both genders with their ease of wear and versatility. These styles can effortlessly transition from casual jeans to tailored trousers, making them a practical choice for any occasion.
On the other hand, some trends are on the decline. The article notes that distressed sneakers and pointy-toed shoes are losing their appeal as fashion gravitates towards softer, more relaxed styles. Shiny leather finishes are being replaced by softer textures in muted tones, such as suede loafers in grays and tans, aligning with the broader minimalist aesthetic. Furthermore, logo-heavy footwear, once a symbol of status, is being overshadowed by the rising trend of “quiet luxury,” which favors understated designs over flashy branding. As the winter season approaches, those looking to refresh their shoe collection should consider these emerging trends to stay chic and comfortable.
Stylists think mules will be popular this winter.
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images
Business Insider spoke with stylists about which
shoe trends
are in and out this season.
The pros said boat shoes, low-profile sneakers, and chunky boots will be popular this winter.
However, logo-heavy styles, distressed sneakers, and pointy toes are on their way out.
Shoes might be the last thing you put on before leaving the house, but they often determine whether an outfit feels dated or modern. So, as trends in texture, shape, and overall vibe shift, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s currently on your shelves and in your closet.
Business Insider spoke with two
professional stylists
to share which footwear trends are gaining traction right now and which are starting to fade. Here’s what they said.
Boat shoes are back in a big way.
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
According to Kendra Sharpe, stylist and founder of
Kendra Sharpe Styling and Creative
, boat shoes are having a full revival right now. She said these shoes are nostalgic, thriftable, and easy to wear worn-in.
In addition to the classic style, designers and fast-fashion retailers are also updating this look with modern shapes and colors.
Low-profile sneakers are taking over.
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Patrick Kenger, the lead personal stylist and founder of
image-consulting company Pivot
, said slimmer, retro-inspired runners are becoming the dominant sneaker shape right now.
In line with the broader minimalist shift, these sneakers are simple in design, often featuring thin soles, low profiles, and clean uppers that create a more streamlined look.
Kenger recommends sticking to neutral shades like black, gray, or white because they work seamlessly with a wide range of outfits without competing for attention.
Lug-sole boots are still going strong.
Chunky Chelsea boots are a popular choice for the cooler months.
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
According to Kenger, chunky Chelsea boots and similar lug-sole styles will remain popular this season, especially as the colder months approach.
He told BI that these heavier soles also work particularly well with wide or straight-leg pants because the structured base helps visually fill out the hem and balance today’s more loose shapes.
Slip-on mules and clogs are becoming everyday staples.
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images
Both stylists said they’re seeing mules and clogs everywhere right now.
From backless loafers to soft suede clogs, Sharpe said these slip-ons work across genders and are easy to style with everything from jeans to trousers.
Kenger told BI that many of the updated versions also come in neutral colors, which pair well with
casual pants
.
Hiking sneakers are moving from the trail to the sidewalk.
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
According to Sharpe,
hiking sneakers
are gaining popularity off the trail this season. She said this is due to people gravitating toward practical shoes with bungee laces, tech-focused materials, and an overall outdoor look.
“They read less like performance gear and more like casual streetwear now, so they’re easy to pair with leggings, trousers, or even dresses,” Sharpe told BI.
On the other hand, shiny leather finishes are being swapped for softer textures.
Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images
Kenger said he’s seeing many people move away from stiff, glossy finishes and toward softer materials in neutral tones.
“Loafers in suede are really big right now, especially in soft grays, tans, and taupe,” the stylist told BI.
As minimal styles take over, he said these muted neutrals are becoming the go-to for an understated, modern look.
Distressed shoes are becoming less popular.
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images
According to both stylists, dramatic distressing is falling out of favor.
Kenger said that even retro-inspired sneakers are leaning more polished and streamlined, stepping away from the overly dirty, beat-up aesthetic.
Sharpe told BI that trends now favor softer textures and subtle wear, rather than anything intentionally scuffed or heavily worn.
Pointy and sharp-toed shoes can feel too formal for today’s more casual trends.
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images
Kenger said that sleek, narrow, sharply pointed styles, especially in flats and loafers, don’t align with the softer, more relaxed direction footwear is heading.
“We’re swapping the sharp, pointy, shiny stuff for rounded toes and softer fabrics,” Kenger told BI.
Instead, the stylist suggests trying rounded-toe options and more organic shapes.
Logo-heavy shoes have seen their day.
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Loud, heavily branded footwear, once a
status symbol
, is losing momentum as fashion shifts toward quiet luxury, according to Kenger.
“We had these really logo-driven, metallic sneakers, and all of that is trending out,” the stylist told BI. “People are going for
quiet luxury
now.”
Instead of metallic finishes or oversize logos, he recommends opting for cleaner, more understated designs.
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Business Insider
