8-Common Shoe Trends In 2022

While 2021 seems like the year to collect slippers, slippers … and collecting more slippers, our stay-at-home style has actually laid the foundation for the footwear trends we’ll be wearing through 2021.

A look at the runways and some designer favorites shows that iconic luxury labels like Khaite, The Row, and Bottega Veneta have reintroduced the flat leather shoe and the cleated sole boot, albeit in some exciting new forms. Our relaxed lifestyles pair well with a silhouette that is just as comfortable.

Brands like By Far and Brother Vellies have also reinterpreted the clog that dates back to the ’70s. The sturdy wooden soles combine fashion and function in an ingenious way, and they also look great with flared jeans. That being said, prep shoe fans will be happy to know that the loafer is back in 2022, and square toes and western boots are far from off the table either. Browse the eight shoe trends that are hot in 2021, or jump straight to the category you’d most like to buy.

1- Retro Sneakers

A retro, low-top sport sneaker with stripes, reminiscent of the ’70s running shoe, makes a comeback this year and looks perfect with a pair of cutoffs and a casual button-down. While you could go for natural tones, there are plenty of quirky color block styles that have a modern feel to them.

2- Leather Flats

The leather flat is a familiar shoe, but its resurgence in 2021 introduces us to new shapes and flashy details. Shop neutral colorways like cranberry and tan, or opt for an almond-shaped sole with an upper hat that engulfs and hugs the foot.

3- Lug-Sole Boots

Whether you prefer a tall height or an ankle boot, it’s all about the sturdy foundation of a thick, often-treaded sole. Allow these to ground your outfit and even offer a touch of edge or grunge when they’ve got lace-up details.

4- Loafers

While we’ve looked to the loafer to achieve the schoolgirl aesthetic before, 2021 introduces color block versions, snake-print details, and tough-looking platforms. Use these to spice up your style — when you’d regularly choose a sneaker or a flat, slip into your loafers instead and instantly feel more sophisticated.

5- House Slides

Though we first collected house slides because we were spending so much time at home, those that can transition outside will stay in heavy rotation. The whole idea of a comfy shoe to quickly run an errand in isn’t far-fetched any time of the year, so expect these to stick around. They’ll be reinvented in colors and luxe fabrics like velvet and shearling, but they all have substantial soles, making them walkable, unlike a thin slipper.

6- Western Boots

Offered in suede, faux leather, or patent with intricate stitching or fun add-ons like Stuart Weitzman’s fringe, this season’s Western boot looks best on full display. Tuck your pants into a mid-height boot or pull off the refreshed miniskirt trend with a knee-high.

7- Clogs

With a return to flared denim, the hype for ’70s trends is prominent, and the clog — with a wooden platform or textured upper that makes it feel “next level” cool — is everywhere. Try it with a mini skirt or trousers where you’d normally think to grab your standard brown boots.

8- Square-Toe

The evolution of the square toe has gone from boot form to just about every other type of shoe. The structure makes sandals and mules feel more modern and it makes pumps appear particularly eye-catching and elevated. In short, it’s the shape that gets noticed.