Strut Through 2023 With 20 Of The Best Shoe Trends Of The Year

A few months into this year and 2023's best fashion trends have fully materialized. And that doesn't stop at the tops and bottoms that fashion's beloved influencers and designers are reaching for — this year's shoe trends are officially set in stone, too. Strap in, because things are a-changin' in the shoe world. Sleek pumps and stilettos are being swapped out for chunky platform heels. The clean white tennis shoes that have had a good run over the last five or so years are taking a break and letting their clunkier counterparts step into the spotlight, too. Even flats are considered "in" again.

If your current shoe assortment has seen you through a few years of use, it might be time to invest in these trends, many of which are surprisingly versatile (and likely not to lose steam any time soon). Ready to refresh your kicks? These are the 2023 shoe trends you'll be seeing on the street and all across shoe racks this year.

Updated on July 21, 2023: Shoe trends vary by season, so we've updated this list to keep you up-to-date with 2023's hottest soles.

Look familiar? Slingback heels are a classic shoe trend that's reemerging in 2023. The silhouette of this heel type usually consists of a strap around the back of the ankle and a pointed toe. This alone is enough to elevate any outfit, whether you pair them with plaid trousers or a flared jean. Though it's a hyper-trendy shoe this year, it's a safe bet to have in your wardrobe as it's essentially timeless. Slingback heels look great with more unexpected pairings, too, like when you turn pajamas into streetwear or are figuring out a way to incorporate a denim midi skirt into your look.

Anne Hathaway's Valentino outfit may or may not have kickstarted the Barbiecore fashion trend, but we'd argue that she also sparked the impossible-to-ignore chunky shoe trend that's everywhere this year. Stilettos started out as the shoe of choice, but platforms have infiltrated more than one style, which makes it easier to bring this into your day-to-day looks. Flip-flops, slides, sneakers, and even loafers have received the clunky platform treatment. While the '70s and '90s were synonymous with these stilts for shoes, 2023 is proving to be the start of its next cycle.

Ballet flats are back, baby. In fact, ballet pumps and other balletcore essentials are all making waves. So pull those legwarmers out of your old box of dance gear and embrace this popular look inspired by ballerinas. A pair of round-toe flats (with or without bows or straps) is a sleek way to tie together an outfit. They're sophisticated and easier to wear for all-day events or an entire work shift than a pair of round-toe heels. If you want something a touch more eye-catching, you'll be happy to know that flats with accessories, hardware, and sequins are also trending up.

Though neutral boots, like black and brown, are never not in, their white and cream counterparts tend to ebb and flow in popularity each year. In 2023, it's clear that the cream and white boot trends are back. This hue pops much more boldly against the dark shades commonly seen in the chicest cold-weather outfits. They also add lightness if your wardrobe is feeling a little heavy in the dead of winter. They're gorgeous in this instance but are equally as pretty featured in a monochrome white look.

Glinting and glistening, silver shoes have caught the attention of the fashion world this year. While the metallic shoe trend introduced itself last summer in the form of platform heels and slide sandals, it's boots that have taken the baton and continued carrying on the look for 2023. They're quite a statement, which might make you scratch your head when it comes to styling them. Even if you're not off to a glitzy party, you can use metallic shoes to level up a basic OOTD or add a flashy boost to an all-black look.

What was once a standard part of office wear, has now become a chic statement. Though loafers are a constant in any classic wardrobe, the lug sole (more commonly seen on chunky boots) has made an appearance on them, and fashion insiders are loving it. It adds an edgier bit of detail to a basic staple and — unsurprisingly — looks fabulous with a blazer or a perfectly tailored pair of trousers. The preppy lug-sole loafer is a worthy addition to your shoe collection.

Sneakers aren't going anywhere this year and though white kicks are still popular and soccer shoes have sprung up, there's one popular sneaker silhouette that's really blown up: chunky sneakers. Whether it's a pair of New Balance's 327s, Fila's Disruptor IIs, or a smaller indie brand's take on sneaker trends, it's impossible to ignore that this look has taken over. It's the epitome of street-style footwear and looks good with denim, sweatpants, and even midi skirts and dresses.

Wooden shoes might come to mind when you hear the word "clogs," but brands like Birkenstocks have made modern-day iterations of this kind of footwear that include slides, rubber versions, and colorful patterned options. This is one of those quirky shoe trends that's hard to not be thrilled about as they're just as comfy as they are cute. Having a few trusty pairs in different colors, whether wooden sole-clad or cork, means you have plenty of wear opportunities through most seasons.

The grunge era called and wants its shoes back. The cute jelly sandals kids wore growing up in the late '90s and 2000s have been adultified. Fresh versions like chunky platform jelly loafers are a fun way to add a little zest to a look, or you can rely on the tried-and-true laidback jelly slides that are part of this year's sandal trends roster. The best part of rubber and plastic-based shoes are how durable they are. Even if you're caught in the rain or have to clomp through dirt or mud, they'll hold up and only require a quick rinse off after.

As previously mentioned, ballet flats aren't the only style of this shoe to get attention this year. Elevated styles of flats that feature a little more pizzazz (like buckles, sparkles, or intricate details) are joining the shoe closets of fashion-forward folks. Offering the same ease of wear that typical flats and everyday sneakers provide but with the flair of a stylish pair of heels, this type of footwear strikes the perfect balance. Rock them with balloon-style jeans, floor-sweeping pants, or a sundress for maximum effect.

Minimalist sandals are simple and versatile shoes, usually in a neutral color and with a sleek design. From beaches to city streets, they remain an essential piece that never really goes out of style, meaning that you can rock them beyond 2023. The best part? Their understated elegance allows your outfit to fully shine — and you to experiment with your clothing as much as you want. Pair them with your wildest patterns or boldest colors, and they will graciously step back and let your fun 'fit take center stage.

Statement-making thigh-high boots are making a bold comeback, and this time, they're all about flaunting your edgy vibe. As we all know, skinny jeans are currently out of style, which is why this time around, over-the-knee boots are best styled with dresses, skirts, and shorts for an effortlessly bold look. While all thigh-high boots are back, it is, in particular, those with striking patterns, unique shapes, and vibrant colors that will take center stage in the second half of 2023.

Thanks to Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" movie release, the world has gone pink-crazy — and the fashion scene is no exception. This means that the rest of 2023 is the perfect time to embrace the power of pink shoes, as there's no such thing as too much of this fun hue. From boots to sandals and sneakers, any style in shades of pink is the right choice, as Barbiecore has taken over the fashion industry!

We encourage you to step into the future with the edgy look of futuristic chunky boots. If you can picture the kicks in a dystopian movie, then you're right on track. They took the chunky trend to a whole new level with a clean and streamlined look that sets them apart from the classic chunky styles that often feature lacing up. And no — you don't have to pair them with a futuristic 'fit — it's all about experimenting and mixing and matching. A pair of futuristic boots will give a vintage floral dress that perfect amount of edge.

Get ready to shine with bedazzled everything as fashion embraces the Y2K aesthetic and a surge in DIY looks. With both trends in full swing, bedazzled shoes are stealing the spotlight as an easy way to add drama to any outfit. Whether you stumble upon a pair already sparkling or take matters into your own hands, decorating your Chuck Taylors one sequin at a time, this trend is all about making your shoes the focal point of your look.

Mary Janes are back on the fashion radar, proving once again that they're simply a timeless choice that never truly goes out of style. Every few years, we witness them cycling back to the top of the trend charts, and 2023 is no exception. The best part? Mary Janes are embracing versatility this time around! So if you're a flats type of gal, you can still hop onto the Mary Janes train!

Effortless vibes are the name of the game, and slouchy boots are the perfect fit for fashion's laid-back trends in 2023. Apart from being a tad loose and folding or bunching around your ankle or calf, there are no specific rules when it comes to this trend. You can go bold with vibrant colors or stay classic with neutral tones — either way, your look will be totally in style. And the same applies to the length — whether you opt for thigh-highs or slouched ankle boots, their casual charm remains the same.

Who says shearling slippers are just for lounging at home? Fashion trends love to bend the rules, so why not rock a cozy pair out and about? With slightly chilly early fall days approaching, these slip-ons are the perfect choice when you're not quite ready to hop into your boots. You can easily pair them with your favorite jeans or a casual dress — and you're ready to take on whatever the day is bringing.

Sock boots took the fashion world by storm last winter, and this time around, they're coming back in a square-toed shape, adding a touch of retro flair to their futuristic look. The sleek yet bold silhouette of these sock boots gives them an edgy new update, making them a must-have for anyone who is a member of the fashion-forward crowd. A pair of square sock boots is like embracing the best of both worlds as you rock the streets with a look that's ahead of its time yet delightfully vintage at the same time.

Saddle up, as Wild West-inspired footwear remains on top of the trend charts! Cowboy boots have undoubtedly been a huge craze, but the Western influence doesn't stop there. Any shoe with a hint of Americana is a great choice. To jump onto this trend, simply look for footwear featuring a metal toe tip for that extra cowboy edge. And when it comes to cowboy boots, the classic style is still popular, but the trend is gradually shifting toward bolder pairs in vibrant hues and funky patterns.