10 Best Spring 2023 Shoe Trends, From Girly to Grunge

The era of chunky shoes is far from over, as Proenza Schouler, Fendi (here) and Jonathan Simkhai’s Spring 2023 shows proved. Whether it’s a platform, wedge or chunky block heel, there’s a pumped up silhouette to suit every aesthetic, from rebellious to feminine to vacation.

Seen at: Proenza Schouler

Seen at: Jonathan Simkhai

What fuzzy sandals were to the home-life era, satin is to the post-pandemic world. Get ready for clogs, pumps, slides and boots made to be seen in every color with a brilliant shine. Etro (here), Sportmax and Ports 1961 are just a few that prove the fabric’s sleek, modern appeal.

It’s a year 2000 rebirth world, and we’re all living in it. So much so that designers continue to deliver nostalgic hits like open-toe mules, from high-heeled and block-heeled versions suitable for work to sleek versions for occasions and nights out.

Seen at: Carolina Herrera

Seen at: Michael Kors Collection

Balenciaga’s pointed heels have taken their place in the market. Still, others are getting in on the slanted-heel trend, like Bottega Veneta’s geometric wedges (here), Proenza Schouler’s bubble platforms and mules, and Ferrgamao’s strappy slingbacks.

Seen as: Proenza Schouler

Mary Janes have become cult of late, and the look is sticking around for spring. But, of course, some versions are softer than others. Sandy Liang and Coach showed off classic and twee versions, the latter opting for an iconic style with socks. Meanwhile, Prada launched a modern cowboy boot hybrid, while Versace gave us the heavier version to really anchor your punk and grunge looks.

From S&M to punk, a rebellious chord struck many fall collections, and the vibe continues into spring. When you get your dose of rebel, think about juxtaposition when styling. A strappy patent platform is divine in combination with a mini occasion, yes, but lace-up boots and brogues are a stylish contrast to dresses and skirts of all kinds.

Ballerinas defy trends. And yet designers like Simone Rocha (here) have taken a page from the prima ballerina uniform in debutante, heeled and flat satin silhouettes, with ribbon-inspired straps, elastic slippers and square toes à la point.

Like ballerinas, the minimalist sandal never goes out of style. So freshen up your Spring 2023 assortment by taking inspiration from the catwalks of Khaite, Altuzarra (here) and Maryam Nassir Zadeh with ultra-thin straps on flats. Or, take the high-heeled route a la The Row and Rejina Pyo.

Seen at: Maryam Nassir Zadeh

These days, few comforts seem as necessary as comfortable shoes. Designers like Simone Rocha, Eckhaus Latta (here) and Jil Sander are pushing for orthopedic chic via thicker, tougher soles with a little something extra – it’s always a fashion moment, of course. Think metal buckles, graphic overlays, glitter embellishments, PVC details and beyond.

The trend has been there for a few seasons. Yet Spring 2023 ushers in a new era of fisherman sandals, from the sleek, minimalist takes seen at Bottega Veneta (here) and Erdem to chunky versions at Gabriela Hearst and JW Anderson. Plus, the ultimate version of Y2K jellies, as evidenced by Coach.