4 shoe trends that are in right now and 3 that are out, according to stylists
Loafer mules are stepping into the spotlight this season.
Patrick Kenger, the lead personal stylist and founder of styling and image consulting company Pivot, said the chunky, casual mule styles popular in recent seasons are evolving into a more polished look in the form of loafer mules.
"Instead of chunkier styles, we're seeing slimmer silhouettes made from materials like leather or suede," Kenger told BI.
He said the backless shoe keeps the easy slip-on feel of a mule, but features a closed-toe, classic loafer-style top that can elevate casual outfits.
This season, people are leaning into fun and expressive footwear.
All three stylists agreed that people are turning to footwear as a way to show more personality in their outfits.
From embellishments and color blocking to bold prints and interesting materials, Natalie Tincher — the principal stylist and founder of BU Style — said statement shoes are gaining momentum after several seasons dominated by minimalist styles.
"We're seeing things like extra straps, bold prints like zebra or leopard, and even more adventurous materials," Kenger told BI. "In men's shoes, that might mean loafers in snakeskin or other textured finishes."
However, hybrid dress sneakers are on their way out.
Once popular in offices as a way to bridge comfort and professional attire, Kenger said the hybrid-style sneaker ultimately misses the mark.
"They're kind of like a dress shoe on top and a sneaker on the bottom," the stylist told BI. "They don't really play a good role in either situation."
Instead, he said many people are moving away from this in-between style and choosing shoes that clearly lean casual or formal.
Practical, creative styles are replacing sky-high heels.
According to Tincher, as fashion shifts toward comfort and wearability, towering heels are becoming less common.
"Instead of sky-high heels, we're seeing more block heels or heels with interesting shapes," Tincher told BI.
The stylist said curved heels, in particular, are trending right now, because they keep the height more practical while still offering a fashionable aesthetic.
Stark-white sneakers are starting to lose their appeal.
Although white sneakers will always be considered classic, Tincher said the bright-white look can feel limiting.
"I would consider updating a white sneaker to something off-white or with softer neutral tones, like ecru or light gray," she told BI.
Plus, the softer shades make the shoes more versatile year-round, and are easier to style with a wider range of outfits.
