I Asked My Colleagues Which Shoes They'll Be Wearing Next Year—Here’s the 5 That Will Be In

Now that we're officially at the tail end of December, my brain has done that inevitable thing it does every year: quietly closing the chapter on what we've worn over the past 12 months and skipping ahead to what 2026 might look like.

Fashion-wise, there are already a few clear signals. Luxury has continued its shift away from overt logos in favour of texture, craft and shape, whilst trainer trends—once dominated by chunky silhouettes—are moving into slimmer, softer and more refined territory. These aren't seismic changes, but subtle ones, and they're already shaping how we'll get dressed next year.

Shoes, though, are where I always feel these shifts first. They often provide the most honest reflection of where fashion is going, especially when trends start to filter down from the runways into real life. That's why I've been thinking a lot about what a spring shoe capsule could look like for 2026: one that feels current but not try-hard, cool but still wearable. And yes, I'm very aware that we're still firmly in winter, but if there's one thing I've learned from working in fashion, it's that the best wardrobes are built early, edited slowly and work year-round.

So, I got to work pinpointing what I (and my fellowBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK editors) believe will comprise the ultimate spring shoe capsule for 2026—the styles that designers are clearly invested in, but that also make sense for everyday dressing. Think shoes that work with denim, tailoring, skirts and dresses alike, and don't feel tied to fleeting trends.

A few familiar shapes kept cropping up in my research: pared-back flats (a response, perhaps, to seasons of mesh and directional styles), slightly oddball loafers, school-shoe-style Derby shoes, ballet trainer hybrids and a return to two-tone heels that feel knowingly referential rather than nostalgic. We saw early versions of these across the spring/summer 2026 runways—at Prada, I saw black Derby shoes worn with a pleated skirt and shirting, whilst Miu Miu leaned into retro footwear proportions styled with floral layers. At Chanel, the two-tone shoe house code evolved again, this time with a slightly sharper heel and less overt prettiness. None of it felt costume-y. If anything, it was refreshingly grounded.

What's important to note is that whilst these shoe styles have clear runway relevance, they're already translating into pairs you can actually buy and wear. That's the sweet spot, and exactly what I look for when thinking about my spring shoes.

Below, I've broken down the five shoe styles I believe will define 2026. Why not take a little peruse?

Shop the Spring 2026 Shoe Capsule:

1. High-Vamp Slip-On Flats

Style Notes: Mesh flats and Mary Janes have had very good runs, but for 2026, there's a noticeable return to simplicity. The classic slip-on flat with a higher vamp and an almond or softly squared toe and minimal detailing in good leather is back in focus. This is the kind of shoe you forget you're even wearing (in the best way). I've been styling mine with straight-leg jeans and oversized knits now, and I know they'll transition easily into lighter looks come spring. Go for a pair with a thin sole and soft upper rather than anything too structured.

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2. Printed Loafers

Style Notes: Loafers aren't going anywhere, but for 2026, they're loosening up a bit. Instead of heavy soles and hardware, designers are playing with prints. Subtle animal patterns, marbling, soft colour contrasts—don't be afraid to have some fun with it; printed loafers are an easy way to add interest without committing to a full statement shoe. I like them best when the rest of the outfit is quite simple: a white T-shirt, relaxed trousers and a good coat.

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3. Derby Shoes

Style Notes: Yes, they do have a bit of a school-shoe feel, and that's exactly why they work. For 2026, Derby shoes feel like the spiritual successor to the brogues everyone wore in the early 2010s, but with a cleaner, more pared-back shape. These are great if you want something sturdier than a flat but less obvious than a boot. I’ve seen them worn with slouchy trousers, letting the toe peek out; it's a look.

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4. Sneakerina

Style Notes: Part ballet flat, part trainer, the sneakerina is one of the more interesting hybrids to emerge in recent seasons, and it's still gaining momentum. What sets this style apart from classic ballet flats is the addition of sporty straps: elasticated bands, crossover details or subtle Velcro fastenings that keep things sleek but interesting. I've seen them styled with everything from cargo trousers to relaxed tailoring; they're surprisingly versatile and a great option if you've grown tired of traditional trainers but still want comfort. I like these best when they're kept simple in neutral colours and with minimal branding. They work particularly well with cropped trousers or midi skirts, where the fastening detail can be seen.

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5. Two-Tone Heels

Style Notes: The Chanel two-tone slingback has long been a part of fashion history, but for 2026, the style has been reworked into a broader category of wearable heels. It's no longer just about slingbacks; pumps, Mary Janes and closed-toe heels are all part of the conversation now. Less prim and more chic, these styles feel freshest when worn with looser silhouettes like wide-leg trousers or oversized shirts, which stop them from feeling too "done". These are the heels to reach for when you want something visually interesting but not overpowering. They're familiar, but with enough contrast to make an outfit feel updated.

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