Spring is an exciting fashion season for so many reasons. Not only can we start wearing lighter weight jackets that actually show off our outfits – but our shoe choices seem to multiply.
The fashion week runways brought a whole host of footwear trends, from boat shoes to boho boots, but finding styles that are actually wearable – and don’t just look good – is an age-old conundrum.
So, celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson shares her top tips for styling this season’s biggest shoe trends, so your footwear feels as good as it looks.
1. Woven flats
Ballet pumps were arguably the biggest flats trend of 2024.
From buckled Mary Janes to the controversial Tabi toe pumps inspired by Maison Margiela – ballet flats cropped up in every possible style.
But this year, woven flats seem to be leading the style train.
“When you are struggling for a shoe for that daytime chic look and you want something comfortable yet more elevated than a trainer, the woven flat is the perfect style,” says Ranson, who is known for styling the likes of Ferne McCann and Jamie Laing.
“The style can work through multiple trends, in spring, summer and even into your autumn wardrobe teamed with jeans and a loose shirt.
“A little white dress in a floaty fabric for a nod to the boho trend.”
M&S Woven Ballet Pumps, £45
Dolce Vita Birdie Slingback Flats, £160, OFFICE
2. Boat shoes
Loafers come back year after year, but this season’s take on the style seems to be in the form of the boat shoe.
“The boat shoe has always been considered to be a classic piece that is not for everyone, but teamed with the right styling and preppy pieces, such as jeans, tailored trousers and mini skirts, it has become our new go-to style,” says Ranson.
While the look seems to lean more into the preppy aesthetic, it works best with your best basics, says Ranson.
“Stick to your uniform of wardrobe staples and switch in the boat shoe for an easy way to include these new faves into your everyday wardrobe. Don’t complicate or go too preppy.”
Mango Suede Boat Shoes with Laces, £99.99
3. Retro sneakers
It seems designers aren’t quite finished with the retro sneaker. This season’s runways were drenched in slimline sneakers and vintage-looking trainers, fuelling fashion’s post-Olympics athletic fixation.
“Vintage and preloved shopping has become extremely popular over the last few years, especially with Gen Z being at the forefront of trends,” explains Ranson. “It’s all about dipping into the archives and finding retro pieces which is why the retro sneaker will stay trending this season.”
This year, brown seems to be the dominating colourway – a neutral that brings a Seventies suave feel to the trend.
“They pair effortlessly with your whole wardrobe, giving a fun and playful touch to your look,” says Ranson, “The added bonus is that they’re comfy and wearable.”
PUMA Speedcat OG Trainers in Cool Mid Grey White, £89.99, OFFICE
Adidas Originals SL72 OG Shoes, £85
4. Slouchy ankle boots
Knee-high boots seem to have had their time, as slouchy ankle boots were the biggest boot trend spotted on this year’s runways.
“That model off-duty look, and the boho effortless trend has become our everyday style, meaning less is more and dressing down has become cool again,” explains Ranson.
“The slouchy boot is the perfect option to compliment this style and can be worn casually with a jean or slightly smarter with a dress, transforming your look.”
Ranson suspects that the knee-high will subtly persist, but styled less overtly than last season.
“I don’t know if the over-the-knee boot will ever really fully go away, but this season they are styled under a midi skirt or with your denim tucked in, so again leaning into a more dressed-down feel.
“If the [ankle] boot can have a little ruche or slouch to it then that ticks even more boxes. When it comes to the slouchy ankle boot, a suede is your best option to really give that western finish.”
Stradivarius Slouchy Short Boot in Dark Brown, £52 (was £79.99), ASOS
5. Clogs
Clogs came onto the scene last season thanks to Chemena Kamali’s seminal Chloé collection, and they continue to be one of spring/summer’s most popular trend.
However, these Dutch delights are notoriously uncomfortable, “As Christian Louboutin once said, I would hate for someone to look at my shoes and say ‘oh my god that looks so comfortable’,” laughs Ranson.
“But, we do want comfort and there is nothing worse than an uncomfortable shoe when you are out with the girls or on a date,” says Ranson.
“The best solution is wearing them in, try at home with socks. There is no real solution for this, we can do the hair dryer trick at home or shoe stretchers, try a few on to find a pair worth the prep.
“The Seventies is officially back, and clogs and wedges will complete every look, so if you want to be on trend opt for a softer fabric or something with a strap at the back so you aren’t slipping and sliding.
“Luckily flares fit perfectly with this trend so you can get away with a sneaky sock.”
OFFICE Magda Clog Mules, £26 (was £64.99)