New year, new shoes. We're excited to kick off 2025 by re-launching our Sole Perspectives blog! Stay tuned for monthly style insights, foot health recommendations, shoe care tips, and more.
2025 is here, and it’s time to put your best foot forward. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve or are simply seeking some shoespiration, we’re thrilled to give you a sneak peek at the top shoe trends poised to define the year ahead.
Here are the top shoe trends of 2025:
1. Clogs
We’re calling it now: 2025 is the year of the clog. Already a consistent presence in several major designers’ spring and summer 2025 collections, clogs will likely be everywhere when temperatures warm up in a couple of months.
Clogs are a classic for a reason. Not only are they beloved for their iconic, charmingly clunky look—they’re also famously comfortable. Clogs from top brands like Haflinger and Dansko offer unmatched arch support and roomy toe boxes, features known for relieving pressure and foot pain.
If you’re looking for ultra-reliable, long-lasting comfort, consider hopping on the clog trend. While you’re at it, grab a pair for outside wear and another to support your feet around the house.
Style tip: Pair your clogs with jeans and a blazer to achieve an elevated yet casual look that seamlessly transitions from work to weekend.
2. Aquatic Blues
2025 is the perfect time to embrace coastal energy. From sneakers to sandals, expect to see more shoes in vibrant blue and blue-green hues that evoke the tranquility of a body of water.
If your next beach getaway isn’t for a while, consider taking a mental vacation by giving this shoe trend a try. Complete your outfit with colors that conjure images of serene lakeside days or rhythmic ocean waves, even amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Style tip: Wear your aquatic blue shoes with neutral colors to make them pop, or go for a coastal feel with coral pinks and oranges.
3. Retro Sneakers
Nostalgia is a major theme for 2025 fashion, and the fast-growing popularity of retro sneakers is a testament to our collective love of reviving styles from past eras.
Known for their bright colors that recall the vibrant hues of the 1980s and 1990s, retro sneakers add a sleek pop of personality to any outfit, taking everyday looks from bland to bold.
Whether you’re inspired by the iconic streetwear designs of the late 20th century or are searching for a statement piece to level up your looks, consider adding a pair of retro sneakers to your rotation.
Style tip: Retro sneakers pop when paired with a mini or midi dress or skirt, providing a playful look for city strolls, picnic lunches, and everything in between.
4. Mary Janes
Another vintage style you can expect to see more of in 2025 is the Mary Jane. Beloved for its retro charm and versatility, the Mary Jane is a timeless choice for nearly any occasion. Equally appropriate for your work wardrobe or a casual errand run, these strap-in wonders add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Style tip: Instantly elevate a casual outfit—like jeans and a graphic tee—with a chunky pair of Mary Janes. Or go for the classically chic look by pairing them with a smart skirt or dress.
5. Powder Pink
Powder pink is having a moment. Fresh and innately cheerful, this pale, romantic shade of pink evokes the charm of spring blossoms, ballet shoes, and delicate coral. This year, you’ll find it gracing sandals, sneakers, flip-flops, slippers, and even hiking boots. If you’re looking to spark more joy in 2025, consider adding a powder pink pair to your shoe wardrobe.
Style tip: Bold neutral tones like slate gray and black will make your powder pink shoes stand out. Or, go for a more romantic look and pair your shoes with other pale and pastel colors.
6. Summer Darks
On the opposite end of the color spectrum, footwear in deep, dark hues is poised to trend in summer 2025. Expect to see intense, rich hues like black, burgundy, and brown as the hottest temps of the year roll around.
Beyond offering a sleek, elevated sense of style, dark summer footwear also provides more opportunities for versatility and longevity. Footwear in dark colors like black or deep brown effortlessly complements outfits in nearly any color. Plus, darker hues tend to hide signs of wear and tear better than their light-colored counterparts.
Style tip: Balance out the boldness of a dark summer shoe by pairing it with light colors and flowy, breathable fabrics.
7. Metallic Neutrals
From dress shoes to casual kicks, shoes in metallic neutral tones like golds, bronzes, coppers, and silvers will take the streets by storm in 2025.
Metallic neutrals are truly the best of both worlds: the earthy tones feel cozy and familiar, while the shiny finishes offer an unmistakably modern, fresh, and trendy feel. Shoes in this color palette are also incredibly versatile, with the unique ability to instantly elevate nearly any outfit.
Style tip: Make your metallic shoes shine by pairing them with more neutral colors, like white, black, and beige—and consider adding jewelry in matching metallic shades for a fun, cohesive look.
8. Kidult
If you’re the type of person who loves to embrace your inner child, you’re in luck this year. Meet the “kidult” shoe trend—the style imbuing the monotony and routine of adult life with a sense of childlike fun.
Characterized by playful colors and prints, the kidult shoe comes in many forms and isn’t limited to any particular shoe type. Think: leopard-print trainers, multicolor sandals with velcro straps, platform sneakers covered in hearts, and anything else that conjures up the nostalgia and excitement of a pre-first-day-of-school shoe store trip.
If you’ve been feeling caught up in the stress of daily life lately, or you simply love fun colors and bold prints, give the kidult trend a try. It’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
Style tip: Let your kidult shoes be the star of the show when you pair them with neutral colors, or wear them with a boldly colorful outfit to complete a playful look.
Stay on trend with Schuler
Found a shoe trend worth falling for? Ready to set a trend of your own? Peruse our wide-ranging selection of top brands to find the pair that fits your style.