2026 has officially become the year of the soft shoe. In recent months, we’ve covered soft, minimalist ballet flats and soft loafers extensively, but a new soft flat shoe style has emerged, and it’s quickly becoming the flat-shoe trend of 2026. The trend is soft oxfords – especially in white leather. And this is what Charlize Theron wore with a cream Bottega Veneta sweater and skirt (topped with a car coat) while heading to a press appearance in Manhattan this morning.
So what’s behind the rise of this specific lace-up shoe (also commonly known as brogues or jazz flats)? Well, it has been one of the mainstays of Repetto’s The shoe collection inspired by French girls has been around for years, but the buzz really took off when it was seen on the runway of Michael Ryder’s first collection for Celine and then again on the runway of Celine’s S/S 26 show. In particular, the white leather pair quickly went viral and remained on the top of many fashionistas’ 2026 wish lists. Many other brands have also embraced the soft oxford-shoe trend this year, so there are plenty of options at various price points. The only problem is that they’re selling out quickly. So, without further ado, scroll on for a little styling inspiration and shop the most charming soft oxford flats in white leather on the market.
Charlize Theron wearing buzzy shoes
(Image credit: Aeon/GC Images/Getty Images)
(Image credit: TheStewartofNY/GC Images/Getty Images)
But Charlize Theron: Bottega Veneta sweater, skirt, and small veneta bag ($4300)
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