We talk a lot about shoes over here at WWW. Yep, everything from the best shoes to wear with jeans to the chicest sandal picks to the new trends dominating right now. In reference to the latter, we wanted to dive a bit deeper into those next-level 2020 shoe trends—those with that slightly extra shock factor. Because TBH, while the latest collections offered up a range of more everyday silhouettes (think two-strap flat sandals), there was an equal number of more surprising, statement-making styles.
To showcase the noteworthy 2020 trends, our editors shared the selects they are most interested in trying at some point this year (given that it's mainly those WFH-type shoes right now). In addition, each shared the pick they aren’t as into based on their personal style choices. (But remember: You should always wear whatever you love, despite anyone else’s opinion.)
With all that said, keep scrolling for a bit of visual inspiration featuring some of the coolest shoe silhouettes. If you're shopping at the moment, you'll find some recommendations as well.
Wants to Try: Toe-Ring Sandals
Might Pass On: Super-High-Heeled Loafers
"I'm surprisingly intrigued by toe-ring sandals, like the ones Emily Ratajkowski wore here. Could they be the new flip-flops? Wouldn't be surprised! Bottega Veneta's pair is the dream. On the flip side, the trend that I'm going to do everything in my power to avoid is high-heel loafers. Some people can certainly pull them off, but I've decided they're a little too frumpy for my taste." — Allyson Payer, Senior Fashion Editor
Wants to Try: Scrunch Shoes
Might Pass On: Platform Heels
"I'm loving scrunch shoes! It's a trend I'm seeing in clothing and handbags too. I'm not surprised LPA's version is selling out quickly. Anine Bing did a version that is coming soon, and Khaite also did a pair that's not released yet. Like some of the other editors, I'll be passing on platform heels. When I wear them, I feel a tad costumey. Though, I am still curious about the platform-boot trend from last fall." — Kat Collings, Editor in Chief
Wants to Try: T-Strap Sandals
Might Pass On: Lace-Up Gladiator Sandals
"I found myself oddly intrigued by all the T-strap sandals on the S/S 20 runways, especially the embellished, low-heeled pair Chanel closed out the month with. They made the trend feel very wearable. Conversely, at 5'2", I don't think lace-up gladiator sandals (which were also shown on countless runways) are the thing for me. They're not the most flattering, and, quite frankly, I just don't feel ready for the comeback." — Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour, Senior Market Editor
Wants to Try: Clogs
Might Pass On: Towering Platforms
"I'm surprising myself by saying this, but I'm really into clogs right now. They were a trend we saw all over the S/S 20 runways, playing into the prevalent '70s theme. I'm going to be wearing them with everything from relaxed tailored trousers to floral midi dresses. However, one '70s shoe trend I will be passing on are towering platforms. I'd much prefer to feel more grounded in practical heel heights right now." — Judith Jones, Market Editor
Wants to Try: Tie-Up Sandals
Might Pass On: Heeled Thongs
"While they appear to be complicated and hard to get on, I'm still quite drawn to sandals with dainty tie-up ankle straps, like the ones I saw on the spring runways at Marina Moscone and Khaite. They're adjacent to gladiator sandals but on the more minimalist side, and according to the runways, they make the perfect pair to spring's dresses and skirts. On the flip side, I'll be passing on heeled thongs even though I've seen some beautiful '90s-inspired versions recently. I tried my hand at wearing them last year and just couldn't get over the way they pinched in between my toes, so they're really not the most wearable." —Anna LaPlaca, Associate Editor
Next, check out the 2020 "ugly" shoe trends worth testing out.
