New year…new shoes? Okay, maybe that’s not a thing, but considering that we just entered a whole new decade, it’s fully justifiable to treat yourself to a pair of shoes. The dawn of 2020 brought us a fresh set of footwear trends, so we talked to the experts at Bloomingdales and Net-A-Porter for their predictions on the the biggest of the year (you know, so you can feel better about splurging). The good news is that not all comfort will be sacrificed this year. Step up your shoe game with their insider information ahead.
The Pointy Knee-High Stiletto Boot
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The Jimmy Choo Mavis boot, which is essentially the Bottega clutch of footwear, was the shoe to make the street style rounds last fall. According to Net-A-Porter’s senior fashion market editor, Libby Page, this boot is destined to influencer status.
Paige foresees lookalikes at all price points emerge in this year. “You may have seen the Mavis boot on the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whitely, and this cult item is sure to inspire footwear collections throughout the year,” she says. The original is mostly sold out, but others are already churning out similar pairs. There’s a pointy-toed croc style courtesy of Staud’s Pre-Fall 2020 collection, plus more wallet-friendly options for those not spending on a Huntington-Whiteley budget.
Sporty Comfort
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Sneakers and other athleisure-inspired shoes are still having a moment, and our feet couldn’t be happier. This year, the trend is two-fold: It’s leaning into true, sporty styles reminiscent of your dad’s hiking footwear. “From statement sneakers to the sport sandal like Teva, athletic influences will be a must-have for 2020,” says Erica Russo, vice president and fashion director of accessories and beauty at Bloomingdales. “Characterized by styles that have velcro, cushioned soles, and high-tech materials, this look has endless styling opportunities. Not to mention, the comfort levels are off the charts.”
Page agrees that comfort is key, but she adds that pared-back versions of the chunky sneaker will also be huge this year. “Comfort and practicality is reigning supreme in fashion right now, and we’re experiencing a modern, sleek sneaker for the everyday woman,” she says.
The Lug Sole
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Chunky soles are still going strong, and almost everyone on Instagram has been spotted rocking creeper loafers or heavy boots from Prada’s Fall 2019 collection. As we look ahead into 2020, the clunky footwear trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. “Whether it’s a combat, hiker, or platform loafer, the lug sole continues to be just as functional as its is fashionable,” says Russo.
You can grab a pair straight off the runway or opt for a classic pair of Dr. Martens, even if you’ve never actually been in a mosh pit. “We love the chunky lug sole for the drama it brings to any outfit,” says Russo. “Pair yours with a floral midi dress or your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans.”
Square Toe Everything
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We’ll be the first to admit that it took us a minute to get used to the square-toed shoe again. Fast forward to 2020, and we can’t stop wearing them. That shouldn’t be an issue because Russo claims that it’s (still) one of the biggest footwear trends in the business.
From Wandler’s two-toned boots to the mesh mules from Bottega Veneta, today’s modern iteration of the ‘90s style feels fresh yet accessible, which explains why it’s gone from high-fashion to mainstream so quickly. “We love it in a feminine, barely there sandal to give that minimalist look that was so popular in the ‘90s,” says Russo. “We also love it with a knee high boot that feels modern and fresh.” Lucky for us, 2020’s styles cover all the bases, from sling-backs to flats to ankle boots.
Justine Carreon is the market editor at ELLE.com covering fashion, Dutch ovens, and fashion again.
