Superior to Ballet Flats (and Loafers): The Footwear Trend That It Girls in NYC and Paris Will Embrace This Spring

      **Disclaimer**

      This narrative was initially published on September 5, 2025, and has since been revised.

      There’s an instinct I experience when I notice a particular jacket detail or shoe shape that signals its potential to become popular, and I trust that instinct completely. It doesn't matter if a host of influential individuals have worn it yet; they eventually will—it's always the case. That same instinct hit me last season while browsing the footwear section on Phoebe Philo's website, where I discovered the designer's Club Slipper, a sleek pump featuring a short one-inch heel, a square toe, and a high vamp. Available in two colors—oxblood and black—it boasts stitched panel detailing on the soft leather, providing an almost glove-like fit. This shoe is impeccable and cannot help but grab attention. Shortly after, I came across a similar design at Reformation, named the Inez Pump, available in black, Espresso Eel, and Cream Puff, and I realized I had stumbled upon something significant. A new style at Zara in an olive green sealed the deal. A fresh footwear trend had made its entrance, and I envisioned a promising future for it. Characterized by its high vamp, this shoe style is sleek, sophisticated, and timeless while still feeling distinct from other trendy options available now. It's superior to a ballet flat due to its elegance and refinement, and it offers more surprise than a loafer—which likely explains why trendsetters in NYC, Paris, and London are donning it ahead of spring. Paired with miniskirts and sheer tights, vintage jeans and graphic tees, and tailored black trousers, high-vamp pumps are the go-to shoe style for right now and into 2027. They are the new everyday footwear that is surprisingly versatile and sure to earn compliments.

      **On the Runway**

      To solidify the appeal of this shoe trend, high-vamp pumps were prominently featured during New York Fashion Week, appearing in collections from Tory Burch, Proenza Schouler, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein. Each showcased heels with a notably elevated vamp that provided an almost glove-like fit. With fashion month just beginning and many more shows ahead, I believe this will not be the last time we see this trending style on the runway. Ahead, discover how fashion enthusiasts are styling their high-vamp pumps and browse the shoe trend I'm fully embracing this spring.

      **How to Style High-Vamp Pumps**

      - Get the look: Graphic T-shirt + White jeans + High-vamp pumps

      - Get the look: Bomber jacket + Cigarette pants + High-vamp pumps

      - Get the look: Black top + Khaki pants + High-vamp pumps + Oversized sunglasses

      - Get the look: Furry coat + Tights + High-vamp pumps

      **Shop High-Vamp Pumps**

      I’m ordering these immediately. They resemble a stylish flat while providing just enough heel for a bit of elevation.

      **Phoebe Philo**

      Club Slipper

      This might be the most stunning shoe I've encountered this year.

      **MANGO**

      Patent Leather Flat Shoes

      If you're looking for an affordable alternative, this $70 pair on sale from Mango is unbeatable.

      I’m still deliberating between getting the black version and this one in Espresso Eel.

      I just discovered these and am already planning to visit Toteme's Upper East Side store to try them on.

      **Phoebe Philo**

      Club Slipper

      The type of shoe you'll keep and wear forever.

      Perfect for whenever your outfit needs an extra touch.

      **AEYDE**

      Delia Leather Pumps

      Aeyde creates the kind of shoes that fashion-forward individuals wear repeatedly.

      Jude is one of those brands that, for the moment, only the chicest individuals are aware of. It's bound to gain popularity soon, but if you want to acquire something that many people haven’t yet, consider getting a pair of Jude shoes.

      **COS**

      Square-Toe Leather Heeled Shoes

      If you already have something similar in black, opt for this rich burgundy option from COS.

      **Reformation**

      Inez Ballet Flat

      Who doesn’t appreciate a chic snakeskin shoe?

      **Khaite**

      Cecilia Suede Pumps

      These are selling out rapidly.

      Butter yellow: the color trending this season.

      **ZARA**

      Limited Edition Leather Heels

      **Why Trust Us?**

      At Who What Wear, fashion is our area of expertise. Our editors possess years of experience in the industry, from covering seasonal trends seen during international fashion weeks to collaborating with some of the most prominent names in fashion. Every item we recommend is chosen with care, based on current trends, quality, and practicality. We frequently try out pieces ourselves, including everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, consult with external experts and fashion insiders, and maintain a close