Yes, trends are very fun to look at and partake in, but you also have to know which ones work for you. After all, whatever you decide to buy should be something that you can wear repeatedly and will last in your closet for more than just a few fleeting months. I'm one of those people who always start with shoes when it comes to investing in timeless wardrobe items, focusing on styles I can throw on at a moment's notice but still look pulled-together. In my mind, a less trend-driven footwear game means I'll have so many ways to wear my shoes.
When looking for shoes that largely avoid the current trend cycle, think of basic heels that look luxe, sneaker styles that have stood the test of time, buttery-soft leather boots, and flats that act as an effortless final touch to any outfit. Below, I rounded up all of those and more anti-trend shoes from Nordstrom so you can shop to your heart's content without sacrificing versatility. Step to it!
Jeffrey Campbell
Dancerina Ballet Flat
These will be like a glove on your feet.
Birkenstock
Boston Soft Footbed Clog
Love 'em or hate 'em, there's no denying that the Birkenstock clogs will always endure.
Open Edit
Solana Sandal
The perfect shade of white.
New Balance
574 Sneaker
The 574s are always around thanks to their comfort and the fact that they go with everything.
The Row
Rai Slingback Square Toe Sandal
Between the angle of the heel and the rich brown hue, you can tell these are luxury by simply looking at them.
G.H. Bass
Mary Jane Moc Toe Loafer
This silhouette just screams fancy.
Nike
Dbreak Retro Sneaker
A monochrome color scheme is an easy way for sneakers to look a little more elevated.
Sam Edelman
Michaela Mary Jane Flat
So elegant.
Converse
Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker
The fashion set's favorite high-tops.
Jeffrey Campbell
Pacifico Slide Sandal
The delicate straps and gold detail at the toe are absolute perfection.
Open Edit
Karyn Ankle Tie Sandal
Lace these up your leg for added drama to regular black sandals.
Toteme
The Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Mule
Toteme's aesthetic fits the timeless bill, as evidenced by these kitten-heel mules.
Steve Madden
Eydie Ballet Flat
You can't go wrong with simple black ballet flats.
Nike
Cortez Sneaker
For that retro-sporty look, opt for this pair from Nike's Cortez line.
Nordstrom
Arabella Woven Slingback Flat
The woven texture makes these super summer friendly.
Chinese Laundry
Mary Knee High Boot
Looking for a pair of knee-high boots that hug your calves? Look no further.
Larroudé
Ankle Strap Sandal
Strappy, neutral heels are ones you'll have in your closet for ages.
Dr. Martens
Plain Toe Derby
Dr. Martens is a brand that's more than 70 years old, and its signature yellow-stitched shoes are still popular today. If that's not timeless, I don't know what is.
Billini
Valeska Chelsea Boot
Chelsea boots will never go anywhere, but if you don't want yours to blend into a sea of black, this cream-colored pair is here for you.
Michael Michael Kors
Imani Pointed Toe Ankle Strap Pump
You always need sparkly shoes! You never know when the right occasion will arise.
By Far
Michele Mirror Metallic Square Toe Sandal
If rhinestones aren't your thing, solid metallic shoes are just as eye-catching.
Birdies
Starling Flat
Smoking slippers instantly give any look an elevated feel.
Vince
Ceil Kitten Heel Sandal
The square toe and heel shape subtly modernize classic black mules.
G.H. Bass
Whitney Weejun Penny Loafer
These top-rated loafers come in a variety of shades, but if you want something that'll pop, try them in white.
Matisse
Lena Platform Mule
Easy slide-on mules are always a must.
Coach
Vae Slingback Skimmer Flat
How timeless are these beige flats with teeny-tiny studs?
Franco Sarto
Naya Ankle Strap Pointed Toe Pump
Two-tone ankle-strap heels are the staple your wardrobe is missing.
Tory Burch
Ballet Loafer
Tory Burch's Ballet Loafers have the comfort of stretch married with a sophisticated look.
Adidas
Primegreen Stan Smith Sneaker
Another sneaker style that will stick around for decades to come.
Frye
Campus Knee High Boot
Frye boots strike the perfect balance between modern and vintage.
Lauren Adhav is a freelance fashion editor based in Los Angeles. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she got her start as the beauty and fashion editorial assistant at Cosmopolitan and worked her way up to fashion editor. She contributed to both the website and print issues, pitching new ideas, forecasting trends, covering red carpet events, and informing the overall coverage and brand voice.
After five years in NYC, she moved to Los Angeles. As a freelance fashion editor, she contributes to Cosmo, The Cut, and nowBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing
. She also spends an unhealthy amount of time online shopping for the perfect piece, and now that she's in L.A., she's rediscovering her soft spot for malls.