Soft, Suede Loafers
There is something that feels so right about a simple, suede loafer in the springtime. Elle Fanning proves a beige driver is the perfect transitional piece to wear with everything from soft, fluid trousers to a lightweight, oversized cardigan. Bonus style points for creating a tonal look. We are gravitating towards very classic styles, such as the Gommino from Tod’s (an OG in the category) to Khaite’s perennial, the Alessio loafer.
Barely-There Thong Sandals
Sofia Richie is no stranger to our street style mood boards. Her recent outing in a clean white, thong sandal had us adding similar styles to our carts, stat. The beauty is in the almost naked design—a true minimalist’s dream. As you can see, they work with long layers now, such as trench coats and maxi skirts, and will be perfect with a sundress, sipping Aperol spritzes when the summer temperatures hit. Take this trend for a test drive with the perfect, patent pair from Prada or Mediterranean favorites from Ancient Greek Sandals and Cornetti.
Polished, Cap-Toe Shoes
Cap-toe shoes are about as classic as they come, but we have been seeing a resurgence in the market in every reiteration from quilted flats to slingback pumps and mules. You don’t have to be an uptown lady to pull this trend off, either. The shoe makes for a perfect pairing with a T-shirt and cropped jeans, or a tailored cardigan and trouser à la Katie Holmes. A few of our favorites include a metallic kitten heel from Miu Miu and a pointed flat from Loro Piana.
Retro, It-Girl Sneakers
Perhaps the most comfortable trend on our list, retro-inspired sneakers are having a moment and we are here for it. Whether it be a reissue of a legacy style, like Ayo Edebiri’s updated Adidas Sambas, the Nike Cortez in vintage suede, or a designer interpretation (think: The Row’s colorblocked Owen and Loewe’s Flow sneakers)—we can’t get enough of these sporty, street-friendly options. Sneakerheads rejoice!
Minimalist Loafers
We saw optic white shoes across the runways at Khaite, Valentino, and Tory Burch, but the smartest way to pull off the trend for everyday is a hardworking loafer—caramels and tans most certainly welcome. Take styling notes from the street and wear a contrasting sock with a bare leg for a sunny, spring day. The only requisites to nail this trend? Clean lines and a flat sole—but that doesn’t mean this is a boring footwear choice in the least. Hardware-trimmed versions from Ferragamo, Larroude, or Maria Luca feel fresh, yet still have a polished finish.
Modernist Glove Flats
A comfortable, walkable shoe is a no-brainer, so we are thrilled that flats are having their time in the spotlight. However, no regular flat will do. Make sure to choose a glove flat—i.e. a style made from buttery, smooth leather with a higher-cut or V-shaped vamp. They’re the art-chic way of complimenting any look, from long, A-line skirts like Kelly Rutherford, to cropped trousers or a structured midi. Pro tip: keep the palette in the neutral color family for maximum versatility.