New Shoe Trends You Need to Try

Written in collaboration with Pat Menzies

Every year there are new shoe trends for people to jump on that allow them to explore their creativity with fashion and to get them out of their comfort zone when it comes to what they think they can and can’t wear.

If you are looking to step out of your comfort zone, excuse the pun, and try something new when it comes to shoes, here are some of the best trends you should know about.

Party shoes

While not a particular shoe, party shoes are all the rage right now in women’s shoes. Think about shoes with big, bold designs, bows, straps, buckles, and bright colours; these are the hallmarks of a party shoe, something that will grab your attention.

While party shoes aren’t for every occasion, they are a great way to spice up any outfit, even if you are someone who prefers neutrals.

More colour

Another popular trend that we are seeing everywhere is the rise of ultra-colourful shoes. Bright pinks, blues, greens, and yellows; using your shoes as a way to add colour to an outfit is all the rage this season.

Lace-up boots

Lace-up boots have always been on the fringes of fashion as they have constantly been viewed as something that is more edgy. However, many have come to realise that they don’t have to be edgy at all, and it just depends on what you wear them with.

Thigh-high boots

A throwback to the late 90s and early 2000s, thigh-high boots have come back with a bang. Great for all seasons, they can be dressed up or dressed down depending on where you are going and what you are doing.

Platforms

Platform shoes are another style that was all the rage for a few years and then went out of the spotlight. However, they are now back and better than ever, as you can find everything from platform heels to platform Converse All-Stars.

Platforms are a great style to choose from as they are the perfect mix of casual and formal. You can get the sexy look associated with heels, but they are casual enough for you to wear them for a breakfast date with friends or just walking around town.

Denim

Finally, one of the more unusual trends is that of denim shoes. From sandals to heels, wedges, and sneakers, denim shoes have taken over. While they aren’t for everyone, they are a great way to add a unique touch to an outfit.

How to pick the perfect pair of shoes

When it comes to picking out a pair of shoes, there are a few things you need to remember and consider before heading to the checkout.

Level of activity

The first thing you need to think about is how active you are going to be while wearing these shoes. Do you sit at your desk most of the day? Are you constantly on the move, or do you just want a new pair of “going out” or “date night” shoes?

While you won’t know for sure what you will be doing, you don’t want to buy shoes that can only be worn under very specific circumstances; you’ll end up barely wearing them.

Fit

The next thing you need to consider is the fit. While this seems obvious, many people still get shoes in the wrong size because they think all shoes are made equally; the short answer is they are not. Depending on the style and material, you could be a 6 in one shoe and an 8 in another, but your regular size is a 7.

This means that it is best to avoid buying shoes online and to rather go in and try them on, as this is the only way to know if you have the right fit or not.

Material

While the material is up to you, it is more about finding a shoe that is made from a good quality material. This will obviously add to its durability and ensure you won’t have to replace them after a few months.

Comfort

It is important to not confuse comfort with fit, especially when it comes to something like heels and boots. It can also be hard to judge the comfort level of shoes by looking at them or even by wearing them for a bit.

The best option is to wear shoes that are similar in shape to the ones you already own. If you want a pair of heels and you have never worn heels before, go for a pair that has a shorter heel and then work your way up to something taller if or when you want to.

Versatility

Finally, you need to consider the versatility of the shoe. Is it something you can wear to the office and to an event, or is it a pair of shoes that are only for special occasions? If you don’t have a ton of money to spend on shoes, versatility can be very important.

It will always be a better option to pick the shoe that you know you can wear to multiple events and occasions, as opposed to the pair that you will only wear to a certain party or festival.