Here Are the 7 Most Significant Shoe Trends for 2026, Based on Runway Shows.

      As we approach the conclusion of 2025, I find myself eagerly anticipating inspiration for fashion, styling, and accessories in the upcoming year. Fortunately, the spring/summer 2026 runways are brimming with stylish ideas and shopping hints that I'm quickly adding to my Pinterest board in preparation for the new season. When it comes to footwear, I've been exploring the top brands showcased in Milan, Paris, London, and New York. I’m noticing numerous emerging shoe trends that are bound to become popular, not only reflecting past styles and designers' rich histories but also paving the way for new directions. From essential color trends to materials, prints, shapes, and silhouettes, I've thoroughly analyzed the standout shoe moments from the S/S 26 shows, which I believe will shape the footwear landscape in the coming year. Here are some major fashion houses like Prada, Dior, and Saint Laurent, alongside some lesser-known cult favorites like Simone Rocha, KNWLS, and Mithridate. Curious about what shoes will be trending? Keep scrolling for some shopping ideas to stay ahead.

      1. Y2K Details

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Prada; Zimmermann; Simone Rocha; Isabel Marant.)Style Notes: Fashion continues to draw inspiration from the past, and for 2026, designers are leaning toward the 2000s. With a bit of bohemian flair and a touch of grunge, I’ve noticed that major brands are incorporating motifs, embellishments, and materials that were popular two decades ago, such as diamantés, cargo straps, jelly accents, and suede wedges. Prada and Isabel Marant were the pioneers of this trend, both back then and now. Zimmermann and Simone Rocha are also joining in by creating modern clogs with wooden footbeds. Love it!

      SHOP THE TREND:

      M&S

      Suede Eyelet Block Heel Mules

      The eyelet details are so Y2K.

      Prada

      Antiqued Leather Pumps

      These antiqued heels from Prada look vintage yet incredibly fresh.

      Chloé

      Jeannette Wedge Clog

      Sienna Miller has been seen sporting Chloé's clogs—just so you know!

      Gianvito Rossi

      Diana 85 Leather-Trimmed Slingback Pumps

      I'm loving the sepia-brown shade of these Gianvito Rossi heels.

      2. Pointed-Toe Heels

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; KNWLS; Saint Laurent; Balenciaga; Acne Studios.)Style Notes: There’s been some debate at the Who What Wear UK office about this trend, and I must say, I find it exceptionally chic. I noticed pointed, exaggerated, and elongated-toe heels all over this season’s runways, from KNWLS, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and Acne Studios, among others—arguably some of the most forward-thinking brands today. These shoes have a medieval and slightly witchy vibe while also being very sexy, creating the illusion of longer legs, especially in more natural or skin-tone shades. Trust me!

      SHOP THE TREND:

      Saint Laurent

      Amalia 110 Patent Leather Slingback Pumps

      ZARA

      Slingback High Heel Shoes

      These Zara slingbacks embrace the trend in a more subtle way.

      Saint Laurent

      Jeanne Slingback Pumps in Smooth Leather

      Opt for gold with a metallic-hardware toe. Chic!

      Acne Studios

      Leather Pump

      The chocolate color, high-vamp design, and pointed toe score major fashion points.

      3. Code Red

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Givenchy; Ferragamo; Stella McCartney; The Attico.)Style Notes: Perhaps we’re all still a bit captivated by Wicked and The Wizard of Oz, but red shoes remain a significant trend for 2026, reminiscent of the pair Dorothy Gale wore along the yellow brick road but with contemporary twists. Luxury brands are embracing this bold lipstick-red hue on sculptural heels, including peep-toes, V-shaped wedges, bow-adorned pumps, and edgy stilettos. This trend infuses a touch of fun into your look and embodies the "unexpected red theory." It’s fierce, fiery, and flirty. I’m in!

      SHOP THE TREND:

      Jude is the hottest new shoe brand currently.

      ZARA

      Leather Strap Sandals

      Pair with colored tights for a fashionable twist.

      GIANVITO ROSSI

      Nuit 95 Patent-Leather Pumps

      These red heels command attention.

      Jimmy Choo

      Azia 95 Patent Leather Sandals

      Nobody creates heels quite like Jimmy Choo.

      4. Pretty in Pink

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Jacquemus; Dior; Maison Margiela; Erdem.)Style Notes: The powder-pink trend has taken over street style this year, and its influence will certainly carry into 2026, thanks to exquisite brands like Jacquemus, Dior, Maison Margiela, and Erdem. I observed