Outdated Shoe Trends To Ditch In 2025

The fashion gods have cast their lots for another year, and as always, no style is safe. Even looks that were majorly popular in previous seasons have found their way to the "no longer hot" list — particularly where footwear is concerned. The 2020s up until now have favored maximalist shoe silhouettes, from dad sneakers that somehow became the style du jour amongst the most fashionable to boots and heels with platforms. But according to Tina Loyd, CEO of fashion brand Terry Costa, 2025 is stripping away the excess to leave us with much daintier styles. 

"In 2025, too-chunky dad sneakers and ultra-platformed stilettos are being pushed aside as smoother, more streamlined silhouettes come into vogue," she notes in an exclusive chat with Glam. Part of this movement is retro shoe styles seeing a resurgence in 2025, especially in the case of sleek ballet flats. While some heftier styles might stick around for the foreseeable future (hi, clogs), even those are generally being styled with a minimalist twist. Don't despair if you're still emotionally involved with your dad sneakers, though — any shoe that still fits and is in good condition should be put on sabbatical at the back of your closet, not retired completely. If one thing's guaranteed, it's that trends will return in a circular fashion. 

The overarching theme for footwear in 2025 is a shift from in-your-face stocky styles to smoother, cleaner shapes. "The over-the-top 'ugly sneaker' trend is fading, being usurped by streamlined retro-style sneakers that are comfortable without compromising on versatility," says Tina Loyd. Along with New Balance shoes inspired by your '90s P.E. teacher, you may also want to put away any high-top sneakers you have lying around. In place of these stout silhouettes, consider investing in classic styles, like the Adidas Samba OG Shoe or Nike Field General Sneaker. Suede sneakers are also entering the spotlight, along with ballet-style sneakers. Of course, a classic white sneaker will never go out of style when worn well, either.

The taste for the simple also extends to more formal shoes, with Loyd noting that platform stilettos have been bumped aside in favor of "lower, sculptural block heels and kitten heels, which are more wearable and elegant." It's not just the soles of the shoes getting sleeker, but also the heels, with super-high heels no longer en vogue. Sequined and sparkly heels now carry a dated feel, too, so it's best to swap them out (unless you're going to a New Year's Eve party). If you're shopping for going-out footwear, look for lower, simpler Mary Janes with a short block heel, leather slingbacks, and pointed toes. Those who prefer an edgier look might want to go for the architecturally stimulating heels-on-a-curve trend we're seeing with wedges, boots, and pumps alike. Something like the Kluolandi Metallic Heeled Mules would give you quite the high-fashion moment. And no matter what style you go for, Loyd tells Glam exclusively that it's crucial to pair them with the right outfit: "Styling these new trends is all about balance — irregular sneakers with loose tailoring for a relaxed, street-style look or sculptural heels with midi skirts and wide-leg pants for a clean, modern look."

Bulky shoes are being left behind in 2025, and boots are following suit. "Instead of chunky combat boots, fashion-forward knee-high and slouchy leather boots are becoming de rigueur," Tina Loyd observes in our exclusive chat. We've already noted some sleeker options, as chunky boots were outdated in 2024: Pointed-toe boots with a kitten heel, minimal motos, and even taller cowboy boots all fit the bill. The QIY Knee High Boots definitely tick a lot of boxes on this front! As Loyd says, leather boots will always be in style, but patent leather is feeling a little old and worn in 2025. Stick to less-glossy finishes if you're in the market for a new pair.

Unless you're actually shopping for an outdoors adventure, hiking boots are also no longer on the fashion radar. While trends are taking a turn toward the more subdued, ankle boots are one style that hasn't yet landed back in the good graces. No matter what TikTok says, skinny jeans are far from dead, but what is dead is wearing cropped skinnies with ankle boots and a sliver of skin showing. Leave this look in 2016, and instead pair your skinny jeans with loafers, sock boots, or even slouchy knee-high boots. The Coutgo Women's Slouchy Knee High Boots get lots of style points in 2025, but feel free to explore colors other than black, too.