I Just Did a Ton of Trend Research—These 7 Shoes Will Dominate in 2024

The spring 2024 runways held plenty of new ideas. Designers introduced a slew of cool new trends that offered both a look into the future and a nod to the past. With so many trends seemingly happening at once, it can feel impossible to differentiate between what's more niche and what's more mainstream. Oftentimes, I prefer to make trend purchases that will last beyond the immediate season, which is why I've been thinking a lot about the 2024 trends that will last all year long, not just for this spring. I'm starting with my favorite topic of all: shoes.

After combing through the runways, my social media feeds, and the market, I've landed on the six shoe trends that I'm positive will have a long-term effect on 2024 and beyond. With the netted flats inspired by the Proenza Schouler runway and the elegant patent-leather pumps that are currently having a renaissance, consider this list to be your North Star for all things stylish 2024 footwear.

Netting is another perfect example of a recent shoe trend that's getting a fresh makeover next year. With the onslaught of mesh flats that went viral, it was only a matter of time until we saw their successor, and now it's arrived in the form of netting. The labels already backing this include The Row, Proenza Schouler, and Stella McCartney, who tend to be trend leaders, so while these might seem out of left field, everyone who's "in the know" will soon be onto them.

The number one way to elevate any look in 2024 will be through a pair of glossy patent-leather shoes. Whether they're fitted boots like at Ferragamo or slingback pumps by the likes of Saint Laurent and Gucci, the patent finish is about to define cool footwear for the year ahead.

Flats held a strong grip on our wardrobe this past year, and 2024 is already shaping up to be no different. Instead of the simple and delicate ballet flats that dominated in the past, next year will be all about Mary Jane flats with substantial soles and buckle hardware like the academic styles Bally sent down its spring runway and the glossy versions at Tory Burch.

One major trend we've noticed for next season isn't so much a specific type of shoes but a styling trick. Namely, wearing tights or thin socks with sandals. The combo may conjure images of thick tube socks and sporty sandals, but I can assure you that this wave is taking a much more refined and elegant approach to layering. It's defined by minimalist heeled sandals and a pair of sheer socks or tights, often in a coordinating color, like we saw at Jil Sander. With hosiery taking center stage, add this to the growing list of creative new ways to style your tights.

And the award for prettiest shoe trend goes to… sumptuous satin. We saw satin pumps at Prada and Altuzarra and Versace via candy-hued boots, so the trend is definitely worth having on your radar. Look for non-neutral colors like bubblegum pink, icy blue, and lime green that give a pretty pop.

While you may have be reserving your shiniest, sparkliest pieces for nights out or New Year's Eve, it's time to embrace your inner disco ball for all hours of the day. If metallics seem intimidating to you, fret not. The easiest (and timeliest) way to embrace all that shines is by balancing out a neutral outfit with silver or gold shoes. Try out a pair of metallic flats with your everyday jeans for a bright pop.

Miu Miu had a lot of influence on the past year, and 2024 is already shaping up to be no different. I predict that it will be the thong sandals from the brand's spring runway that fashion people will translate into their IRL looks. The minimalist silhouette makes a sleek and modern statement, like we saw at Proenza Schouler and Coperni as well.