The usual suspects feature in the line-up of key spring/summer 2026 shoe trends. Sandals, ballet pumps and trainers were realised in new and experimental formats – all of which are now on full display as summer arrives.
Shop 2026 shoe trends, Vogue-approved:
Looking to the months ahead, the fashion flip-flop is already proving to be a star player in the wardrobes of fashion insiders, whether they’re traversing a heatwave in the city or holidaying abroad. Beloved for its comfortable yet elevated appeal, it’s no wonder that the thong-toed sandal has become such an attractive option among the style set, ready to be worn with linen trousers, jorts, or miniskirts, on pavements or a sandy beach in the Med. Jelly shoes, in nostalgic caged silhouettes or levelled up with an unusual heel (courtesy of Jimmy Choo), are another favoured summer shoe, imbued with retro charm.
Ballerinas and their sportier hybrid counterparts, sneakerinas, continue to position themselves front and centre in retailer offerings. There are styles at both ends of the spectrum: Nike’s Moon shoe has subtle hints of trainer traits, while the brand’s Air Rift is very much its own offbeat entity, with a chunky profile and split toe.
The divisive Air Rifts have created quite a frenzy, but nothing quite like the commotion caused by the release of Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel pumps (enduring shoes that are worthy of wear well beyond the spring/summer 2026 season and into autumn). Earlier this year, fashion editors who’d seen their debut in the flesh flocked to Paris stores – and airport outposts – the moment they caught word of their availability, prompting sell outs and waist lists. And those who managed to get their hands on them were suitably smug.
