When it comes to fashion, it always pays to be flexible. As much as you might convince yourself that you'd never try a certain trend, you shouldn't be afraid to expand your horizons a bit. For me, that means experimenting in the shoe category. I've always been loyal to Vans and Superga sneakers, as well as flat sandals. They've become the cornerstone of my collection, but I'm convinced to try out other styles thanks to the celebrities below.
Spotting both Charlize Theron and Hilary Duff in platform sneakers in the same week first sparked my idea for this story. I've always associated platforms with cringe-worthy 2000s style, but they're proving that the trend can look thoroughly fresh and completely cool in 2020. From Margot Robbie to Zoë Kravitz, scroll down to see the celebrities who are convincing me to try 4 new-to-me shoe trends.
1. Fuzzy Slides
I used to think fuzzy slides worked best as house shoes, but now I'm convinced that they are, indeed, socially acceptable to wear outside. Margot Robbie wears them with a romper, while mom-to-be Sophie Turner wears hers with bike shorts.
On Margot Robbie: Alice McCall romper; Ugg Joni slides; Ray-Ban sunglasses
On Sophie Turner: Carvela sandals; Louis Vuitton bag
You can never go wrong with Ugg if you want the coziest shoes on the market.
Nope, these aren't just house slippers. The soles are made to be worn outside as well.
I love this deep midnight blue color.
This $16 price tag can't be beat.
How sweet is this pale pink color?
2. Platform Sneakers
When I hear the term "platform shoes," I immediately think about the awful 3-inch platform flip-flops I bought in 5th grade but never actually had the guts to wear. These days, celebrities like Charlize Theron and Hilary Duff are making elevated sneakers look so much cooler than the early 2000s.
On Charlize Theron: Sunday Somewhere Laura Sunglasses ($270); Louis Vuitton bag; Joie Dabnis Stripe Sneakers ($298); Werkshop Roses Face Mask ($20)
Heads up: Charlize Theron's exact shoes are still in stock.
On Hilary Duff: Champion sweatshirt; R13 High-Top Sneakers ($495)
I've never much thought about buying yellow shoes, but Hilary Duff is convincing me otherwise.
These are the perfect platforms for beginners.
Stella McCartney is known for her animal-friendly, vegan materials.
Air Force 1 sneakers will always be cool.
Black-and-white is a foolproof color combo.
3. Mary-Janes With Socks
I previously thought the schoolgirl combo of Mary Janes with socks was too literal, but Zoë Kravitz just went all-out with the look—including a pleated skirt that reminds me of my Catholic school uniform—and pulled it off with aplomb. Here's hoping I look half as cool as Kravitz.
On Zoë Kravitz: The Row flats
Take cues from Kravitz and wear these with basic white socks.
Charles Keith is a favorite of fashion editors for well-priced shoes.
Such a great affordable buy.
I love this sophisticated cream color.
4. Neon Sneakers
I've always stuck to classic black or white when it comes to running shoes, but now Jennifer Lopez makes me want to step outside my comfort zone and go for brighter colors.
On Jennifer Lopez: Nike Air Presto Sneakers
J.Lo wears bright orange sneakers, so I want bright orange sneakers.
APL is a favorite of celebrities like Lucy Hale.
New Balance is having a moment right now.
Pretty in pink. I love the old-school shape of these Reebok sneakers.
These colors are giving me major '80s vibes.
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