There’s nothing like the start of a new year to kick yourself into action, whatever that may mean for you. While I don’t necessarily believe in making resolutions, I do like to go into January with a clean slate—literally—which is why I always make it a priority to audit my closet at the start of the New Year and naturally do a good bit of purging. First up? My shoes. My 50+ pairs have begun to spill out of my closet and I’ve even had to convert a shelving unit to storing them, so saying that I’m in need of a good gutting would be, well, an understatement.
With that, I set out on an epic journey to get rid of the styles I no longer needed or wore. But I also tapped my fellow Who What Wear editors for their opinions. After many discussions in the office, trend research, and my own self-audit, I’ve come to the conclusion that there are seven main shoe trends that are hitting their expiration dates in 2025. I know, I’m sad too, but I’m preparing to say goodbye to my sky-high platforms and puffy shoes to make way for several far chicer and more current options.
Out: Bright Barbie Pink
In: Chocolate Brown Tones
With chocolate brown infiltrating our wardrobe more than ever, the hue is quickly taking over as the new default shoe color and it’s so much chicer than black. If you’re going to add a bit of color to your closet this year, a pair of chocolate brown flats, sneakers, or loafers will ensure a luxe vibe. On the contrary, we’re seeing less and less of those vibrant Barbie pink hues that dominated not too long ago.
Out: Combat Boots
In: Sleek Knee-High Boots
Everyone and their mother needs a pair of sleek knee-high boots, and that’s a fact. Once considered a “trend”, this style has officially graduated to staple status so investing in a pair would be wise—you’ll wear them for so many years to come. Of course, being that boots take up the most room in our closets, abiding by a strict one-in-one-out rule is crucial and that means one style of boots is on the way out: combat boots.
Out: Basketball Sneakers
In: Racing Sneakers
Between viral pairs like the Puma Speedcat and Adidas Taekwondo, it’s clear that racing is becoming *the* sport defining the coolest sneakers at the moment, speeding ahead (sorry, had to) of soccer and basketball-inspired styles.
Out: Puffy Shoes
In: Satin Shoes
There’s nothing the fashion crowd loves more than a novelty shoe and Prada-esque elegant satin is what’s resonating with the insider set the most right now, with puffy shoes decidedly on the decline.
Out: Sky-High Platforms
In: Sleek Slingbacks
Slingbacks will pretty much never go out of style, but they’re set to have an even bigger impact this winter with viral pairs from Saint Laurent and Toteme popping up everywhere we look.
Out: Loafer Mules
In: Luxe Slippers
Hear me out: Brands are making elevated slippers to be worn outside the bedroom. The Row’s Frances pair, which is done in a delicate silk jacquard and beloved by Kendall Jenner and Laura Harrier, is proving to be the unlikely It shoe right now.
Out: PVC Shoes
In: Rich Suede
Suede, suede, and more suede. It’s the buzzword of the season, and as fall progresses into winter, the luxe fabric will be defining the most noteworthy shoes, from loafers and sneakers to ballet flats and boots.
Source: WhoWhatWear
