7 shoe trends that will expire in 2025

Whatever that means to you, there’s no better time to take action than the start of a new year. I don’t necessarily believe in making decisions, but I want to literally go into January with a clean slate. That’s why I audit my closet at the beginning of a new year and always prioritize doing something good for nature. Purge a little. First? my shoes. With over 50 pairs of shoes starting to spill out of my closet and my shelving unit having to be modified to accommodate them, it’s safe to say it’s in need of some serious gutting.

So I set out on an epic journey to get rid of styles I no longer need or wear. But I also asked my fellow Who What Wear editors for their thoughts. After much discussion in the office, trend research, and my own self-audit, I’ve come to the conclusion that seven major shoe trends will reach their sell-by date in 2025. I know that, and I’m sad too, but I’m preparing to bid farewell to the expensive platforms and puffy shoes I’ve been wearing in favor of some chicer, more up-to-date options.

Out: Bright Barbie Pink

Color: Chocolate brown tone

Chocolate brown is making its way into our wardrobes more than ever, and this shade is quickly establishing itself as the new default shoe color, and it’s far more chic than black. If you want to add a little color to your closet this year, chocolate brown flats, sneakers, and loafers are sure to give you a luxurious vibe. On the contrary, the bright Barbie pink shades that were mainstream not so long ago are becoming less and less common.

Out: Combat boots

Wear: Sleek knee-high boots

Everyone and every mom needs a pair of stylish knee-high boots. That’s a fact. Once considered a “trend,” this style has officially achieved classic status, so it’s wise to invest in a pair because you’ll be wearing them for years to come. Of course, boots take up the most space in your closet, so it’s important to follow a strict 1-in-1-out rule. That means one style of boots is becoming obsolete. Combat boots.

Out: basketball sneakers

Type: Racing sneakers

Between viral pairs like the Puma Speedcat and Adidas Taekwondo, it’s clear that laces are becoming the ‘sport’ that defines the coolest sneakers of the moment, with styles inspired by soccer and basketball. (Unfortunately, I had to) I’m getting ahead of myself.

Out: fluffy shoes

Type: Satin shoes

There’s nothing fashion lovers love more than a new pair of shoes. With puffy shoes clearly on the decline, it’s the elegant satin of Prada that resonates most with insiders.

Out: Sky High Platform

Wear: Stylish slingback

Slingbacks rarely go out of style, but they’re about to make an even bigger impact this winter, with viral pairs from Saint Laurent and Totem popping up everywhere.

Out: loafers/mules

In: plush slippers

Please listen. Each brand makes high-quality slippers to wear outside the bedroom. Crafted from delicate silk jacquard and loved by Kendall Jenner and Laura Harrier, The Row’s Frances pair has proven to be the unlikely It shoe.

Out: PVC shoes

Material: Rich suede

Suede, suede, and more suede. It’s the buzzword of the season, and as fall progresses into winter, the most notable footwear, from loafers and sneakers to ballet flats and boots, are defined by this luxurious material.