Put the Black Shoes on Hold—7 Stylish Alternatives That Are Equally Chic for Summer 2025

      There’s nothing quite like discovering a reliable staple piece that is suitable for any occasion. For the majority of the year, my go-to items have been my black shoes. Timeless, endlessly versatile, and effortlessly chic, any style of black footwear ensures I always feel well-dressed. Nonetheless, while black shoes will always remain a part of my capsule wardrobe, I’ve recently felt a bit uninspired by sticking to the same color. As a result, for summer 2025, I’ve chosen to invest in some new shoe colors to enhance my outfits. As a minimalist, exchanging my neutral clothing for more trendy shades seemed too extreme and outside my comfort zone. However, shoes offer a much subtler method of incorporating color and adding interest to my summer ensembles. Pairing my white midi dress or black linen trousers with a standout hue will make my look feel fresh and sophisticated, while the smaller shoe silhouette helps maintain an effortless and elegant vibe. Still, I recognize that trends come and go, even in footwear. For this reason, I’m focusing on some reliable shades that I’ve seen on my Instagram feed. I’m opting for more understated and wearable colors that even the simplest dressers can adopt, allowing for an elevated summer outfit without venturing too far outside traditional styles. If you’re also in search of an effortless way to elevate your outfits this season, I’ve compiled a list of seven colors that are just as versatile as classic black footwear but bring a cooler feel for 2025. Continue reading to shop the seven fresh shoe colors I'm embracing this summer.

      **7 Trending Shoe Colors I’m Wearing for Summer 2025:**

      1. **Off-White**

       - **Style Notes:** White shoes are a summer staple, yet I often find them too stark against my darker outfits. For this reason, I’ll be opting for off-white shoes, such as Debora's flip-flops (featured above), as a softer option that still feels fresh for the warm months.

       - **Shop Off-White Shoes:**

       - AEYDE: Melody Leather Flip Flops – The summer shoe I have my eye on.

       - ME+EM: Leather Fisherman Sandal – This chic off-white shade is just as versatile as a classic black fisherman sandal.

       - COS: Leather Ballerina Flats

      2. **Cherry Red**

       - **Style Notes:** While red may seem like a bold choice, it pairs seamlessly with both neutrals and vibrant colors. This season, I'm on the lookout for the ideal pair of cherry red flip-flops.

       - **Shop Cherry Red Shoes:**

       - ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS: Saionara Leather Flip Flops – Simple yet intriguing to add character to an outfit.

       - Mint Velvet: Kit Red Leather Buckle Slingback Heels – I highly recommend Mint Velvet shoes this season.

       - Puma: Speedcat Og Trainers – I've seen many editors wearing these.

      3. **Pale Yellow**

       - **Style Notes:** Buttery yellow shades gained popularity in 2024 and show no signs of fading. For 2025, I am looking for paler variations that pair easily with my more understated summer wardrobe.

       - **Shop Butter Yellow Shoes:**

       - Next: Forever Comfort® Square Toe Post Low Heels – I've been considering these since early spring.

       - The Row: Liisa Kitten Heel – Perfect for office and casual settings.

      4. **Chocolate Brown**

       - **Style Notes:** Chocolate brown isn’t limited to winter wear. There are plenty of chic summer shoe styles in this warm shade, ranging from easy-to-style sandals to versatile trainers.

       - **Shop Chocolate Brown Shoes:**

       - Reformation: Jessie Thong Sandal – Chocolate brown suede? Yes, please! Simple yet highly effective.

       - ALOHAS: Tb.490 Rife Panelled Suede Sneakers – A trainer you’ll enjoy regardless of the season.

      5. **Oatmeal**

       - **Style Notes:** 'Oatmeal' shades like taupe and beige shine during the warmer months. This hue is perfect between dark brown and cream, allowing for many styling possibilities with various colors, prints, or patterns.

       - **Shop Oatmeal Shoes:**

       - & Other Stories: Strappy Block Heel Sandals – The ideal shoe for summer events.

       - HEYDUDE: Wendy Stretch Canvas Shoes – The chunkier sole ensures comfort throughout the day.

      6. **Bordeaux**

       - **Style Notes:** Bordeaux might be thought of as a colder-weather color, but this French-approved burgundy shade can work year-round, adding just the right touch of elegance to any outfit.

       - **Shop Bordeaux Shoes:**

       - Prada: Nappa Leather Ballerinas

       - ZARA: Flat Leather Sandals With Straps and Decoration – Breathable