A new year is a perfect time to shake up your wardrobe and the shoe trends 2022 are guaranteed to do just that.
Dopamine dressing—which means wearing the pieces that make you feel good—is one of the key fashion trends 2022, so it’s no surprise this cheerful aesthetic has trickled down to our feet too. If you’re not yet brave enough to don a new trend head-to-toe, investing in one of the key shoe trends is the perfect way to tap into the trend without veering too far from your personal style.
From statement platform heels to sporty sandals, this year's shoe trends will lift any look and give your wardrobe essentials a new lease of life. Whether you want to give the best midi dresses a sporty twist or you want to give your best jeans a retro twist, these shoe trends will upgrade your look in one stylish swoop. "It is clear comfort remains a priority for new season footwear but it’s great to see designers embrace color, embellishment, and statement features as we emerge from lockdown life," says Katie Eastwood, Style Ambassador at Stitch Fix UK. "Trainers will always be integral to our wardrobes but I, like many, will be adding some larger-than-life footwear to my wardrobe this season, ready for a brighter year ahead—quite literally!”
Biggest Shoe Trends 2022
1. Sporty Sandals
Chloe/Stella McCartney
Our love of the comfy sandal is showing no signs of slowing down. Spotted on the runways of Chloe and Stella McCartney, sporty sandals are once again stealing the limelight and who are we to complain when this shoe trend is both fashionable and functional.
"The athleisure trend lives on and sporty sandals are set to be popular this Spring, as seen across the Spring/Summer catwalks of Hermes and Chloe. Chunky soles are key and combined with super comfortable neoprene fabric and functional velcro straps, these sandals epitomize our want for both style and comfort," says Eastwood.
Incredibly versatile, there are no rules when it comes to wearing your sporty sandals. Try teaming a colorful pair with your favorite denim or keep it chic in sleek neutrals and tailored trousers. A worthy addition to your spring capsule wardrobe, the possibilities are endless.
Our fashion editor recommends...
The Row Hook and Loop Leather Sandals
RRP: $990/£925 | With an easy velcro fastening and a chic cream hue, these will be your go-to sandals for warm sunny days. The chunky, cushioned sole keeps them oh-so-comfy too.
Madewell The Maggie Sandal in Colorblock
RRP: $68/£65 | The cool colourblock design on this sporty pair will add a pop of color to the simplest of looks. Just add a classic white tee and denim cutoffs and you’ve got your effortless everyday outfit sorted.
Ganni Recycled Rubber Velcro Sandals
RRP: $117/£105 | Crafted from 50 per cent recycled rubber, these are not only achingly cool but they have sustainable credentials too. The fiery red hue will add some serious punch fo your look. Buy now and wear forever.
2. Platform Heels
Sportmax/Ermanno Scervino
Take your feet to new heights (literally!) with some sky-high platform heels. Dominating the catwalks from Sportmax to Ermanno Scervino and spotted on our favorite fictional fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw, the stompy heel proves that we’re finally ready to dress up again, and if you want some more inspiration in this vein, check out our guide on how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw in Just Like That...)
"We can definitely see the '90s inspiration coming through, with chunky block heels and colorful platforms—once favored by our beloved Spice Girls and devoted fans everywhere—appearing all over Spring/Summer catwalks," says Eastwood.
"Create a maximalist look by pairing these heels with a bold mini or a printed midi dress and complete the look with a colorful clutch. For a more subtle look, add these statement shoes to an oversized shirt, jeans, and chunky gold jewelry."
Easier to wear than a stiletto thanks to the block sole, experiment with vibrant Crayola hues, or add a preppy twist with some Mary Janes.
Our fashion editor recommends...
Zara Strappy-Heeled Platform Sandals
RRP: $89.90/£59.99 | Time to hit the dance-floor in these ultimate party shoes. In a hot pink hue with a modern square toe, they tick all the boxes. The block heel and foam insole gives adds comfort. Get ready to show off your legs in these.
Office Haya Mary Jane Platforms
RRP: $78/£59 | Channel those back-to-school vibes in these sweet Mary Jane platform heels. The chunky platform keeps the girly shoe looking more grown-up - just add straight-leg jeans and an oversized blazer.
Ego Mavery Strappy Diamante Buckle Square Toe Statement Platform
RRP: $89.99/£59.99 | This budget-friendly pair is guaranteed to make a statement the moment you step foot in them. The sparkly buckle detailing adds extra glamour.
3. Ballet flats
Giambattista Valli /Tory Burch
On the other end of the heel spectrum is the simple ballet pump which has made a recent comeback. With the early noughties being a huge trend for 2022, it’s no surprise the ballet pump has resurfaced, especially as it has that comfy element too which can resemble slipping into the best slippers—bliss!
Timeless and chic, ballet pumps work with anything from your jeans to skirts. For a modern update, look to a pointed toe silhouette which will leave a flattering finish too, and add a feminine flourish with embellished details and ribbon fastenings.
Our fashion editor recommends...
Boden Almond Toe Ballerinas
RRP: $140/£95 | Florals may not be groundbreaking but we all know they’re a key print every time spring comes around. Made from leather with a flattering pointed toe these are delightfully elegant.
Jack Rogers Serena Ballet Flat
RRP: $118/£92.70 | You can’t go wrong with this classic ballerina design with the signature bow. This monochrome design will stand the test of time and will go with everything already in your wardrobe.
Gianvito Rossi Velvet Ballet Flats
RRP: $910/£655 | Every shoe-drobe needs a pair of black ballet flats and the high-end finishes on these beauties give them extra style kudos - from the plush leather fabric to the embellished strap.
4. '90s Mules
Rokh/Street Style
Mules have pretty much cemented themselves into our spring wardrobes the past few seasons thanks to that quilted style from Bottega Veneta and the '90s-inspired style is still going strong in 2022. Defined by one simple strap and a low-to-mid heel this year's iteration has a playful spin—from animal prints to sparkly details.
With no fussy fastenings or laces, these mules can be easily slipped on and off as you dash in and out of the door. Team with mom jeans and a simple tee for a brunch-ready look that gives a little nod to nostalgia.
Our fashion editor recommends...
Dear Frances Chaise Mules
RRP: $340/£280 | Sensible at the front and party at the back with this statement-heel pair. The minimalist design and chic cream hue ensures they will go with everything whilst the animal print heel brings the fun.
Mango Glitter High-Heel Sandal
RRP: $79.99/£49.99 | Lavender is set to be a huge color trend for 2022 so ease yourself in with these lilac mules from high street faves Mango. The embellished strap adds a luxe touch that will have you party-ready.
H&M Chain Detail Sandals
RRP: $34.99/£24.99 | The satin lining and low heel keeps these classics comfy enough for all day wear whilst the chain detailing adds texture and interest. Team with a tailored two-piece for a look that’ll take you from boardroom to bar.
5. Square Toe Loafers
Street Style/Tod’s
Another flat shoe our feet are very grateful for is the polished loafer. Classic and timeless they add an androgynous spin to any outfit and will earn you some serious cool points. Looking for a 2022 update? Go for a square toe silhouette as seen on the Tod’s runway. The chunky sole also gives it a '90s twist that will look great paired with a cute plaid mini skirt.
Our fashion editor recommends...
Cos Square Toe Leather Loafers
RRP: $225/£135 | Add some sunshine to your step with these yellow loafers. Buttery-soft leather and a stacked heel for support, these will become an all-year-round wardrobe staple.
Lattelier Square Toe Loafers
RRP: $59/£43.07 | Give yourself some school flashbacks with this classic black pair. The chunky silhouette and square toe keeps them looking modern. Go up a size up for the perfect fit.
Loewe Gate Two-Tone Leather Loafer
RRP: $690/£550 | These tan slip-on loafers are perfect for when the weather warms up. The topstitched knotted strap adds a feminine spin. Team with cream wide-leg trousers for an easy-breezy spring-ready look.
woman&home thanks Katie Eastwood, Style Ambassador at Stitch Fix UK, for her time and expertise.
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