Denim Shoes Are The Outdated Footwear Trend To Retire In 2024

Was 2023 the year of denim? From updated double-denim styles to the resurgence of denim accessories, it definitely seemed like the staple fabric was everywhere. In some cases, its popularity went hand in hand with vintage aesthetics, empowering trendy, throwback looks. From wide-legged '70s jeans and ripped, grungy '90s vibes to a preppier noughties aesthetic, we see denim trends from iconic decades emerge again and again. And as recently as the summer of 2023, denim shoes were a low-key way to evoke Y2K style. However, the tides of fashion are ever-churning, and it seems like certain denim pieces may be flowing back out to sea. In particular, denim shoes — whether you were rocking everyday flats or bold denim boots — seem to be on the ebb for 2024.

Sorry to see your versatile denim footwear fall by the wayside? We understand — it can be hard to phase favorites out of your closet (and no one's forcing you to stay on trend, either, so don't feel pressured to store them away if you're not ready to). Fortunately, you can replace that feeling of bittersweet farewell with fresh excitement, as the 2024 fashion landscape is serving up some other chic shoe materials and color schemes to embrace in denim's place.

For a classic shoe material that never really goes out of style, the slick sheen of patent leather has you covered. Polished to a high shine, patent leather shoes are subtly eye-catching, adding a hint of glamor to any outfit. Plus, this finish is available across countless styles. Whether you're looking for sweet Mary Janes, fierce stilettos, or even chunky lug-sole boots, you can find options in glossy patent leather. And while black is classic, it's not your only choice; patent leather shoes in hues like feisty red or classy navy are equally stunning.

Unlike denim, the metallics fad hasn't passed us by yet, and shoes are a perfect way to get in on this trend. Depending on how you style them, shades like silver, gold, and copper can run the gamut from understated to playful, giving these shoes plenty of wear in your wardrobe. Throw on a pair of slick silver pumps with your office ensemble for a work-appropriate pop of interest, put a twist on your black boots by choosing a pair with a shiny metallic finish, or enliven casual outfits with the addition of opulent gold flats.

If you love a maximalist aesthetic, get excited — sparkly, embellished shoes are on-trend for winter 2024 and beyond. We're talking rhinestones, crystals, and straight-up glitter, gracing every shoe style from mules to motorcycle boots. Adding instant pizzazz to every outfit, you can wear these statement shoes as part of a vivid, larger-than-life style or use them as the focal point of a more subdued look. And if sparkly isn't your style, there are other, more matte embellishments to consider, from girly bows to metal studs.

Fashionistas have been loving fuzzy fabrics recently, and it looks like shoes are no exception. From fluffy, Barbie-pink kitten heels that Elle Woods might wear to thick shearling knee-high boots perfect for cool weather, plush materials are bringing texture and variety to 2024's footwear game. Push the boundaries of your shoe shelf by trying out fuzzy fabrics like velvet, faux fur, or mohair. For extra drama, you can pair these materials with bright colors, or you can tame fuzzy shoes into something cozy by using them with neutral tones.

Colors like black, brown, and beige are footwear no-brainers, but they can also feel a little boring and expected. If you're looking for some truly statement-making shoes, neon is one of the shoe trends you'll see everywhere in spring 2024 — and not just among sneakers. From hot pink to highlighter yellow, neon colors can breathe new life into heels, loafers, and more. For a creative, fashion-forward vibe, try them with different looks and aesthetics. These eye-searing shades ensure you can't be missed, whether you pair your neon shoes with a street-style 'fit or unexpected formalwear.