It's confirmed: Here are the 5 shoe trends we will be saying goodbye to in 2026.

      The new year always prompts a time for reflection on the previous twelve months. Considering the individual we’ve become over the course of four seasons, the shifts in our preferences, and the achievements we’ve made, this figurative transition affords us the chance to take inventory. This is why it’s common for wardrobe revamps and style makeovers to happen during this period. We think about our past outfits, what we’ve chosen to forgo, and how we aspire to present ourselves in the future. Therefore, to optimize this process, the team at Who What Wear UK has compiled a list of shoe trends that are becoming outdated in 2026.

      Anyone with style will tell you that shoes are the most effective way to add flair or refresh a tired outfit. For instance, swapping casual ballet flats for structured loafers can transform an ensemble from effortlessly chic to impeccably polished. Introducing a delicate heel to an outfit typically paired with trainers can completely change its overall vibe.

      Since refreshing one’s style can be as easy as reorganizing clothing or letting go of pieces you no longer love, it’s also crucial to recognize which design elements experts, like us, believe may be seen as outdated in 2026 and beyond.

      Upon examining 2025 through a fashion lens, many new shoe trends surfaced. On the minimalistic and elegant side, we saw The Row’s Dune flip-flops, Ancient Greek Sandals’ jelly sandals, and retro-inspired Dries Van Noten suede trainers. Meanwhile, more eccentric pieces like Isabel Marant wedge trainers, Vibram’s divisive five-finger shoes, and Puma Speedcat Sneakerina also made an appearance.

      The trendiness of these controversial designs certainly places them in a dated category, but they won't become obsolete the moment the clock strikes midnight on December 31. However, there are certain shoe trends that might be phased out in 2026 (at least until they eventually make a comeback).

      If these styles are ones you wear often and genuinely love, there’s no need to part with them. But if you’re looking to refresh your shoe collection, these subtle changes can help your rotation feel more in vogue. With that in mind, continue reading below for the outdated shoe trends of 2026 and the styles that fashion insiders are gravitating towards instead.

      **5 Shoe Trends That Feel Dated in 2026**

      1. **Passing On: Boat Shoes / Wearing Instead: Derbies**

       - **Style Notes:** Following Miu Miu’s sleazy collegiate-inspired spring/summer 2024 runway, boat shoes acted as a counterpoint to the viral chunky loafer popularized by Prada. However, after a year of everyone dressing like the Sag Harbor set in white Bermuda shorts and striped rugby tops, a more polished shoe has taken their place in 2026: Derbies. Introduced to the mainstream by Michael Ryder’s debut Spring 2026 collection for Celine, this streamlined shoe provides a refined finish to cigarette trousers, oversized blazers, and silk scarves. Think Fred Astaire mixed with French chic.

      2. **Passing On: Gum-Sole Trainer / Wearing Instead: Low-Profile Trainers**

       - **Style Notes:** In 2026, it’s clear it's time to retire gum sole trainers. The past few years have seen the dominance of Adidas Samba, with its signature three stripes featured prominently among tastemakers. While new styles appeared in 2025, including the Onitsuka Tiger and Puma Speedcat, 2026 calls for a move away from this design altogether. Influential dressers are now leaning towards trainers that are sleek, slim-cut, and devoid of a notable sole. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider the best-selling designer pair from Dries Van Noten, or if you prefer to stick with Adidas, look for the Tokyo or Taekwondo styles.

      3. **Passing On: Razor Sharp Heels / Wearing Instead: Curved and Cone Heels**

       - **Style Notes:** With contributions from designers like Tory Burch, Jacquemus, and trend commentator Mandy Lee (@oldloserinbrooklyn), 2025 was undoubtedly a year for “freaky shoes.” These designs included unexpected shapes with slits revealing glimpses of your foot or unconventional elements. As this shift in design emerged, one transition became evident: the rise of curved heels. Replacing the once-popular razor-sharp styles, the most sophisticated heels for 2026 will feature a cone, pinched, or arched design. Innovative yet comfortable, which is always a plus.

      4. **Passing On: Pointed-Toe Boots / Wearing Instead: Sock Boots**

       - **Style Notes:** The pointed-toe boot is also phasing out. Once ubiquitous, with styles from Saint Laurent to Loeffler Randall, the trend is now leaning toward more relaxed designs. Sock boots reign supreme, with flat, snug ankle-cut options taking over the tapered look.