From Flatforms to Loafers, Here are Spring’s Most Coveted Shoes

3 min read
AKRIS

With spring on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about putting away your winter boots and booking a pedicure — with a switch to sandals and strappy shoes spotted on the SS20 runways back in September. But, before you refresh your footwear, take note of the new, unexpected silhouettes set to take over the streets, and the office; from classic Mary Jane pumps, to practical platforms and square-toes, again. 

ss20 shoes

SIMONE ROCHA | ERDEM | GABRIELA HEARST

FANCIFUL FLATFORM 
An alternative to autumn/winter’s practical trainers, the flatform sandal emerged as a runway hit for SS20, offering a functional silhouette to wear all summer long. At Erdem plaited raffia platforms were topped with croc leather straps, at Simone Rocha cross-over straps were embellished with pearls and jewels, and at Gabriela Hearst, the wedge sandal was reinvented to reveal a new take on a seasonal staple. Wear with denim, maxi skirts or breezy summer dresses, this style is flexible and easygoing. 

BOTTEGA VENETA | PROENZA SCHOULER | GIVENCHY

SQUARE-TOES 2.0 
For a sharper look this spring, return to last season’s sought-after square-toes — with the experimental form reimagined for the new decade. Daniel Lee’s super straight toes at Bottega Veneta were one of the biggest talking points of AW19 — alongside the beloved pouch clutch — and for SS20, it seems that other designers have followed suit with boxy angles and razor-sharp edges at Givenchy, Proenza Schouler and Loewe. 

shoe trends

VALENTINO | MISSONI | SPORTMAX

CASTAWAY CHIC
Barely-there footwear proved a popular shoe style for SS20, with discreet flats and understated sandals making a low-key, yet noteworthy appearance during fashion month. The trend included nomadic style, beach-ready rope sandals in both earthy, neutral tones and bursts of colour. For the eco-savvy, take note of the rope sandals made from raffia, which is plant-based, biodegradable material — for style, and sustainability. 

ss20 shoes

MARC JACOBS | PRADA | PACO RABANNE

MARY JANE 
Spotted at the likes of Prada, Carolina Herrera, Maison Margiela and Marc Jacobs, the charming Mary Jane pump made a comeback for SS20 in fresh metallic colouryways, shearling textures and electric shapes perfect for adding a colour-pop to any ensemble. The trend works best when worn with patterned tights and bright stockings, but for a polished 9-5 look pair the shoes with a blazer and skirt , or wear with bermuda shorts to add a modern refresh to a classic pair of pumps. 

ss20 shoe

AKRIS | TORY BURCH | LANVIN

LADYLIKE LOAFER
From chic backless styles at Lanvin to velvet mauve loafers at Missoni and ladylike forms at Tory Burch, the comfortable loafer received an elegant revamp for spring. The runway offered a series of new iterations on the style; including block-heels, chunky soles, and luxe materials made to last long after the season has ended.

Read Next: The SS20 Trend Report 

  • Images: GoRunway.com