If we don’t make eye contact when passing on the pavement, don’t take offence—I’m likely scoping out your shoes. Trust be told, I’m *obsessed* with footwear. My shoe racks have essentially become avalanches of heels, boots and trainers, and after running my own shoe brand, it’s nearly second nature for me to notice what’s on your feet before anything else. And as an American who lives in London, let me just confirm that the capital is overdelivering when it comes to shoe trends for spring.
(Image credit: Future)
This spring Londoners are looking for a pair of shoes that feel ‘just right.’ As Goldilocks keenly sought after the perfect happy medium of all the things in her life, we seem to be doing the same with our footwear. After witnessing extremes in trends (see: chunky soles vs. flat soles, and extremely pointed toes vs. blunt squared-off edges), we’re beginning to carve out a space for the median, like mid-sole trainers and toe shapes that mix two silhouettes together. Style and functionality needn’t be segregated from one another, and this season it’s all about opting for a chic yet practical style that will work for all kinds of weather.
As I’ve gone about my day-to-day errands, there have been a few specific footwear choices that keep catching my attention—no matter how much of a rush I’m in. Here are the unfolding London spring shoe trends that are solidly poised for a full run this season.
1. Pleated Loafers
Style Notes: Rather than a drastic change in material, sole size or shape of loafer, the difference is in the details. The cinched stitching of pleated loafers are taking over London. It’s a small change, but is remarkably noticeable from, say, a thick-heeled loafer or something smooth and seamless.
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The rounded, almond-shaped toe is stylish and comfortable.
Dear Frances
Luca Loafer in Saddle
I love how subtle the gathered texture is on this pair.
The Row
Gathered Eel Leather Loafers
If you’re after an investment pair, these are it.
2. Pops of Red
Style Notes: In London, grey skies are usually the norm. That’s why a pop of red is so warranted. I love how quickly it brightens up an outfit (and the outdoors). Playful red tights jumped out at us throughout the winter, so it’s fun to see this hue slink down into our shoes for warmer days. Thick-soled sandals, vivid trainers or pointed-toe kitten heels are all fun ways to work this colour in.
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Charles & Keith
Nell Gladiator Sandals
These are giving major ’90s nostalgia.
Dear Frances
Balla Mesh in Red
If you haven’t hopped on the mesh flat trend yet, this colour is the perfect segue.
Ralph Lauren
The Suede Pony Ballerina Trainer
The split sole, cinched collar and bright red hue make these too fun to pass up.
3. Pointy Square-Toe Boots
Style Notes: Square toe had its moment, as did pointed-toe shoes, so it only makes sense that this combination of the two shows face this spring. When blended, it’s not as severe as a pointy or blunt end on its own, it’s a softened silhouette that feels like a fresh new toe shape. I’ve been spotting it in the form of boots and heels, and noticed it on a few pairs of flat mules too.
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Reiss
Reiss Black Mina Leather Kitten Heel Chelsea Boots
The angular heel is the perfect extra detail.
Toteme
The Mid Heel 60 Leather Ankle Boots
The elastic ankle panel makes these comfy enough for all-day wear.
Aeyde
Ariel Suede Cowboy Boots
The toe may be pointed but the sleek extended sole makes it look a teensy bit square.
4. Studded Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Mesh and netted flats had their moments last year, so I’m really loving this slightly edgier take on ballet flats. Studs and crystals are bold and help punctuate an outfit that’s built out of basics. As our news writer noted, studded flats are more comfortable than other options, but provide a little extra drama to your outfit with zero effort required on your part.
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Maje
Studded Ballet Flats
This pair lets the leather peek through a touch more than others.
Steve Madden
Vinetta-R Sandal Rhinestone
Another take on the style that’s selling out everywhere.
Khaite
Marcy Embellished Ballet Flats
I love that these straddle the line between loafer and ballet flat.
5. Bright and Bold Trainers
Style Notes: As shoe silhouettes go, flat-soled trainers like Adidas’ Sambas and Gazelles have won all of our hearts. To make these looks feel fresh for spring, I’ve been seeing tonnes of unique colour combinations, patterns and finishes (like metallic). While this trend from last year persists, you can easily make it feel fresh with a pair that feels more fitting for spring.
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Reebok
Club C Grounds Trainer
Complementary colours make for a very vibrant spring shoe.
Another colour combination I can’t stop thinking about wearing for spring and summer.
AllSaints
Thelma Metallic Leather Trainers
A shiny finish always catches people’s eyes.
6. Mid-Sole Trainers
Style Notes: After New Balance’s marshmallow-soled 327s took over (I’m still wearing mine) and subsequently very flat-soled Adidas styles, it makes sense that soles with widths that hover right in between the two are appearing everywhere. It’s a small break from these exaggerated looks, sitting neatly between the two. Although this type of shoe is trending, it has really cemented itself as a classic you’ll be able to wear for years without getting bored.
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SALOMON
Xt-4 Quick-Lace Mesh Low-Top Trainers
Utility and style shine with these functional trainers you can trek around in.
COS
Saucony Shadow Trainers
This well-cushioned shoe is made of breathable cotton and mesh.
Here’s to really embracing the ‘dadcore’ trainer trend.
7. Unexpected Details
Style Notes: Noticed that Maison Margiela’s Tabi shoes have made a serious comeback? You’re not seeing things; flats, boots and loafers have all appeared, as have other shoes with interested heel and toe details. Whether it’s that iconic slit between the big toe and second toe, a fully spherical heel or a metal-tipped toe—these trendy details are everywhere upon closer inspection.
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Maison Margiela
Metallic Leather Tabi Ballet Flats
This polarising shoe with its split toe is hard not to love.
Jeffrey Campbell
Latus Mule
On this pair the toe *and* heel take the spotlight.
Charles & Keith
Leather Sculptural-Heel Mules
Even the smallest details (like the heels on these mules) can provide the little lift your outfit needs.