Typically, at this point of the year, the energy-renewing optimism of spring begins to brighten our wardrobe rotation, and the shoe trends we’ve been discussing will follow suit. From timeless woven sandals to minimalist flip-flops (in trending red, if we’re feeling particularly adventurous), over the past few years, classic shoe styles have been a favorite for the warmer months. But, as I look specifically towards the shoe trends shaping spring/summer 2026, things are looking a little different.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
With the perceived “death” of quiet luxury, all things intentionally provocative have taken over. Whether it’s Jennifer Lawrence wearing garden clogs or what can only be described as foot-baring, heel holders (?) at the Chanel Cruise 2026/27 show, designers and trend-setters alike are leaning into shoe trends that start conversations, not just complement outfits.
That doesn’t mean the more general shoe trend isn’t in style (Adidas Sambas and ballet flats will always be cute), but if you’re looking for a shoe trend that’s actually on the rise socially, the fashion set is styling “weird” shoes with trousers, skirts, and dresses this spring, and five specific styles have really caught our attention, and they’re anything but boring. Scroll to find.
1. Toe shoes
Style Notes: Introduced by Vibram and strengthened at Chanel, shoes with raised toes are very popular. A little (or very) ugly, eccentric, and leaving little to the imagination in the foot department, shoes with sculpted toes have grown in popularity. Whether it’s Valentino’s Revel pumps (providing a flattering look at the toes’ cleavage) or the OG Nike Rift, which Skims revived in a recent collaboration for 2026, we’re showing off our toes.
Buy Foot Shoes:
Vibram
V-Soul Fivefingers
Make a pair in the toe-shoe space.
maison margiela
Leather Tabi Ballerina Flats
Wear with jeans and a blouse this spring.
The rubber sole will provide unlimited comfort.
The recent Nike x Skims collaboration put the Rifts back on the map.
Valentino
Open Toe Revel Suede Pump
These have been all over my social feeds lately.
2. Jelly Mule
Buy Jelly Shoes:
Every chic dresser is pairing the Chloe Jelly Mule with lace-trimmed shorts.
TU makes some of the most comfortable shoes I have owned.
ancient greek sandals
Sayonara Jelly Clear Red
These are available in eight shades.
Bring out the princess beauty with this dazzling pair.
Senso
jesse flat mule
This oxblood shed is very high.
3. Trainer Shoes
Style Notes: One part trainer, one part boxing boot, knee-high Sneakers are the most recent divisive shoe trend to cause a stir among the fashion set. Mixing ’90s sportswear with classic gladiator sandals, it was Miu Miu’s thigh-grazing pair at the autumn/winter 2026 show that put the style on the map. As they sold out overnight, loyalists in the trainer sector took notice, leading to Puma’s Speedcat boots and Adidas’ Japan H boots becoming new fan favourites.
Buy Trainer Shoes:
Adidas Originals
japan h shoes
These vibrant yellow trainers are one way to make a meaningful statement.
isabel marant
Liade Leather Lace-up Ankle Boots
sandals? boots? Who knows?!
Onitsuka Tiger
mexico 66 boxing
You won’t have to worry about lacing this pair up, as they feature a functional zip.
A lot of people were wearing these at Coachella.
mista
imogen lace brogues
Miista is leading the way in the divisive footwear game.
4. Heeled Applique Sandals
Style Notes: The OG of the Y2K shoe game, in 2026, the floral applique sandal is having a resurgence. Fashion-forward designers paired with their cute charm and a healthy dose of personality Jimmy Choo, Nancy Djoka and Khaite provided gorgeous florals in everything from leather to beading and tulle.
Buy Heeled Applique Sandals:
Azalea Wang
Freja Heeled Sandals with Flowers
Now I just need a summer wedding!
jimmy choo
Sky Corsairs Floral-Applique Lace Mules in Pink – Jimmy Choo
Delicate lace! Blush color! If I were a shoe, I would be this shoe.
farm rio
Multicolor Ocean View Monstera Heel Sandals
manolo blahnik
Palisse 50 Appliqued Grosgrain Mule
I have yet to find a pair of Manolo’s that I don’t like.
Zimmerman
Orchid 85 Metallic Leather Sandals
Cascading orchids make up this pair.
5. Peep-toe shoes
Style Notes: In 2026, we’re saying goodbye to the biker and hello to the peep-toe boot. Who would have thought that a boot would allow you to show off your latest performance Get a pedicure while keeping the rest of your feet covered (just in case). Leading the peep-toe charge? Miu Miu, of course, and you’ll be seeing these among fashionable risk-takers this spring with everything from shorts, skirts and dresses.
Buy peep-toe shoes:
free people
Mandi Lace-Up Heels
This style also comes in black.
anthropology
Silent D Kiki Peep-Toe Tall Boots
Asymmetrical heel! Bent end! I want to be buried in these shoes.
paris texas
amanda suede ankle boots
These will look good with jeans with slim fit.
This is exactly how I will be wearing these shoes this spring.
paloma wool
Manuela Open-Toe Knee-High Sandals
The ankle strap will keep your feet in place.
