In a season marked by high-profile runway debuts, anticipation peaked around how newly appointed designers would steer their houses’ accessories: would they honour the classics or reinvent identities? The answer—as it relates to the spring/summer shoe trends—proved to be a mix of both, with interpretations swinging like a pendulum from pared-back minimalism to full-throttle maximalism. On the minimalist end of the spectrum, styles were refined, and barely-there. For everyday ease, Miu Miu, Fendi, and Prada introduced sleek, slim sneakers that feel understated yet quietly directional. Those craving height with a similar sense of polish could find it in the glove-like designs of Chanel, Khaite, and Toteme, whose foot-hugging sock shapes offered elegance without excess—proving restraint can be just as powerful as decoration. Then came maximalism, unapologetic and joyful. Dries Van Noten, Proenza Schouler, and Dior leaned into drama with bold designs that demanded attention—flourishes befitting their new creative directors.
From sequin embellished pumps ready for summer dance floors to sandals adorned with oversized floral appliqués, these styles embraced fantasy and adornment. It was footwear that celebrated the playful side of fashion—expressive and impossible to ignore. The best part? There’s no need to wait for these runway moments to hit stores. This season’s offerings already emulate the trends, making it easy to step ahead of the curve. Whether your style skews minimal, maximal, or somewhere in between, Vogue highlights how to shop the spring/summer 2026 shoe trends now.
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Glove Pumps
An editor favourite of the season, glove like pumps are a minimalist’s footwear dream. Sleek, sculptural, and designed to hug the foot in a barely-there manner, these ladylike silhouettes are perfect peeking out from beneath a maxi dress or grounding sharp tailoring. Opt for a block heel or one in stiletto form, from Khaite, Proenza Schouler, and Aeyde.
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Slim Sneakers
Spring’s take on fall’s ballet sneaker feels even more refined than its predecessor; we like to think of it as the casual shoe for minimalists: understated, effortless, and endlessly wearable, from morning errands to city strolls. Neutral choices make for an easy go-to, however, bold, colour-forward styles energise even the most pared-back of looks.
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Backless Loafers
A fall favourite, the loafer gets a modern refresh for spring with a foldover, backless silhouette. This interpretation dominated the runways—from Victoria Beckham to Bottega Veneta—offering an easy, slip-on style that still feels polished. From pointed and square toes to flat soles and subtle block heels, expect a wide range of iterations to dominate the market this spring.
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Fancy Footwear
Fashion is fun again! Celebrate the return of warm weather (at least mentally) with footwear for your inner child. From floral appliqué styles that mirror spring’s blooms to disco ball-like sequins, these statement shoes are made to be noticed.
5 / 5
Back to School
The footwear equivalent of a fresh start, why not lean into the new year’s refreshed energy with your pick of the season’s preppy brogues and lace-ups? Many of this season’s debut designers took to the style, with Jil Sander, Loewe, and Dior all offering their own interpretations on the polished shoe. In glossy patent leathers and with house emblems, these spring-ready shoes build on fall’s modern prep look, offering a sharp and intentional anchor for crisp shirting and pleated trousers.
This story was originally published on Vogue.com.
