The 2023 Shoe Trends You Need To Know About

Though we're in the middle of summer, fall 2019 runway trends will be here before you know it (and before you've fully paid off last month's credit card bills). We've pinpointed the overall seven style trends of 2019 to know, and now we're breaking it down further with a focus on footwear.

After examining the spring and fall collections, we've determined which sandals to pack on vacay and the one boot we'll see everywhere come September. After all, runways dictate what's going to be popular—and thereby replicated by every major retailer so you can afford the trends too.

The 2023 Shoe Trends You Need to Know About

For next season, designers aren't completely reinventing the wheel. Instead, they're building upon the fashion house archives and past trends, adding embellishments here and there or introducing new shapes and materials. Without further ado, the top nine shoe trends for this year:

Barely-There Sandals

You need a pair of thin, strappy heels or flats STAT. This minimalist style popped up on the runways of Jacquemus and Rejina Pyo last year and are now everywhere this season. You'll find brands like Zara and BY FAR making the most elegant barely-there sandals that are perfect for the office or weddings. You do have to buy and try different styles to find the most comfy pair for you, but it's worth it. I personally prefer a style with kitten heels, so I can walk around the city without getting blisters.

Cozy Shearling

We can all use an extra layer of warmth come fall/winter, so shearling-lined shoes will be your feet's savior next season. Furry material covered all kinds of shoes that came down the fall 2019 runways, from over-the-knee boots at Celine to fuzzy pumps at Off-White.

Feathers

Feathered heels and flats dominated the spring runways, from Valentino (above) to Prabal Gurung and Simone Rocha. The feathers fluttered down the catwalk and, in a second, stole the spotlight from the rest of the outfit. There isn't just one spot designers are incorporating plumage, some added feathers to the heel of their footwear while others lined it on the straps. All look amazing.

6 Shoe Trends That Are Taking Over in 2023

Teva-Inspired Sandals

Should anyone make fun of your Tevas, you'll have the last laugh. The style, made of criss-crossing velcro straps, are summer's shoe solution to "ugly dad sneakers." Designers created iterations of the utilitarian sandals with platforms (like Anna Sui above) and iridescent straps. Designer Sandy Liang even incorporated real Tevas into her New York Fashion Week presentation last year, which means it's definitely time to get your hands on a pair.

Embroidery

Intricate embroidery evokes images of vintage jewelry boxes and heavy gowns like Blake Lively's Met Gala look. But it's also totally wearable. Michael Kors' spring '19 show featured everyday embroidered pieces, like this pair of pink platform sandals. The design marries artistry to fashion for a totally one-of-a-kind shoe. This season you'll also be seeing the detailing on boots and mules.

Sculptural Heels

It's time we all embrace the unusual, sculptural heel, available in a variety of geometric shapes you definitely knew the names of in elementary school. The innovative heels are basically wearable architectural feats, allowing you to incorporate a sense of wonder and drama into your work or party outfits. Keep your look simple with jeans and a t-shirt, letting the footwear captivate onlookers.

Buckles

You're about to see buckles on flats and stilettos, adding edge to traditionally more feminine footwear. Alexander McQueen sent a shoe down the runway with three buckles, while Sies Marjan pushed the envelope with four rugged straps. If you're not ready to have your feet completely caged in, there are simpler, single-buckle options out there. Pro-tip: If you choose shoes with multiple buckles, give yourself a few extra minutes in the mornings to put them on.

Nautical Vibes

Monse's entire spring '19 collection gave a nod to the seaside, and it seems other designers had similar ideas, releasing woven footwear. Nautical details popped up on the models' feet at shows like Milly and Ulla Johnson, paired with flowing dresses and skirts. In an instant, we were all thinking of booking vacations to the Caribbean or the French Riviera. Luckily, you don't have to wait until next season to get your hands on a pair of rope sandals. Pick a pair below to pack with you for your next getaway.

Bright Chunky Sneakers

Sneakers have become a permanent fixture in runway collections, so don't expect last season's dad sneakers to disappear any time soon. Next spring promises mega-soled kicks in bright hues, like the ones spotted at Escada (above). Style with a tie-dye top or dress for the ultimate color clash–approved combo. This is one comfortable trend my feet are thankful for.