Cute snow boots styled with fuzzy socks have endearing qualities, but the best spring shoe styles offer an inherent sense of freedom you can't match with winter footwear. If Katie Holmes' wedge sandal is any indication, it's time to expand your shoe collection for the warm-up.
While open-toe espadrilles are a quintessential style for al fresco season, several other standouts sway both trendy and traditional. "Spring is the perfect time to slip into a pair of ballet flats," says Lexie Chan, regional director of operations at VIVAIA, a sustainable direct-to-consumer brand that's won over the hearts of celebrities like Julia Roberts. There are so many variations, and they can be worn with just about anything. Ballet flat's equally sweet-natured cousin, the Mary Jane flat, has also seen a resurgence in the past year (with much thanks to brands like The Row and Miu Miu) and will be particularly relevant this spring.
While the classics will always win in the long game, a few newcomers will likely prove their longevity. Multicolored sneakers, fresh takes on mesh flats, and 90s-era fisherman sandals with new twists, like platforms and textured material, have steadily blossomed on the footwear scene.
Minimalists who shy away from pops of color and unconventional designs also have nothing to worry about. Tried-and-true styles like white sneakers, neutral-toned mules, and sleek slingbacks aren’t going anywhere. You can stick with what you know best or branch out and try something new.
Ahead, you’ll find the best sixteen spring shoe styles backed by Chan, a shoe-obsessed fashion writer and a New York-based Accessories Director who has seen practically every spring shoe in the market.
Shop The Best Spring Shoes of 2024
- Best Mesh Flats for Spring: Loeffler Randall Leonie Crystal Mesh Ballerina Flats
- Best Trendy Sneakers for Spring: Adidas Samba Sneakers
- Best Flat Sandals for Spring: Reformation Lake Flat Sandal
- Best Slingback Heels for Spring: Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump
- Best Chunky Loafers for Spring: Gucci Sylke Leather Creeper-Style Loafers
You'll feel like a true princess while wearing Loeffler Randall’s mesh ballet flats. These crystal-studded shoes are decorated with charming accents, including a delicate strap across the top and an adorable bow accent at the toe. And if you decided to wear mesh, you’re not alone. The trending see-through style is currently beloved by several celebrities, most notably Jennifer Lawrence (who can’t seem to get enough of her Alaïa ballerina flats).
You've seen them everywhere, and they're not going anywhere. Adidas Samba sneakers continue to lead 2024's biggest shoe trends, for good reasons. Their classic silhouette—offered in a variety of shades—can easily be worn time and again. Just ask countless celebrities. When she's not in a wedge, Katie Holmes wears her trusty black-and-white Samba kicks for practically every casual outing.
If there's one pair of shoes you absolutely need for spring, it's a simple pair of flat sandals. There's nothing wrong with heels, but now and then, it's nice to take a break from kitten heels and stilettos. A pair of classic black shoes can support all your style needs.
The Spring 2024 runways were scattered with kitten heels, specifically those with an extra sharp silhouette (Gucci and Saint Laurent were prime examples). Jess Graves, writer of the Substack newsletter, The Love List is also a big fan of the style. "This spring, I've been drawn to mules with a closed, pointed toe and a kitten heel, and they're a great way to get a little boost. They're also practical for the office," she notes. Pair this one with a breezy blazer, a crisp button-down, and floor-grazing tailored trousers.
Ask any fashion editor who attended Gucci’s runway show, and they’ll tell you that chunky loafers took center stage—in a variety of colorways—white, black, green, brown, oxblood, you name it! Incorporate red, which infiltrated the fashion industry from every angle last season, into your shoe collection and you'll stay one step ahead of the trend. Burgundy is forecasted to continue dominating the runways well into fall 2024.
More Spring Shoes We Love
Fashion enthusiasts have officially claimed butter yellow to be one of spring's most popular colors. Designers like Jacquemus, Loewe, and Bottega Veneta infused the joyous pastel shade into their respective collections through button-ups, cardigans, and dresses, but another great way to experiment with the micro color trend is through accessories.
Puma’s soccer-inspired Palermo shoes were first released in the ‘80s. The design has transformed ever-so-slightly over the years, with the latest iteration featuring a range of vibrant colorways. Something about this green and pink combo screams spring. If this color combo isn’t your thing, try the classic black-and-white version frequently worn by Emily Ratajkowski or the cherry red shade adored by Dua Lipa.
Earlier this year, Kylie Jenner was pictured out and about wearing an extremely polarizing trend: peep-toe shoes. Jenner put her own spin on the look, flaunting edgy knee-high boots with razor-thin heels. If you want to test drive a peep toe, an espadrille wedge is a safe bet. This one leans sophisticated with a delicate woven upper.
If you’re not afraid of heights, try indulging in a pair of platform heels. Take notes from the Spring 2024 runways of brands like Simone Rocha and Peter Do, where models balanced their sky-high heels with flowy garments, like sheer dresses and satin mini skirts. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for a pair of platforms with an interesting texture, like Givenchy’s Voyou platforms covered in stitched denim.
Pelle Moda’s patent leather thong sandals will add a glossy touch to any look. These chic heels can elevate your casual springtime outfits instantly. This peony pink is enticing, and there are black-and-white versions for a full trifecta.
Boat shoes have made a major comeback, this time with posh designer takes. "There's an overarching preppy mood happening in fashion right now," says Marissa Galante Frank, Fashion Director of Accessories at Bloomingdale's. "This spring, that trend manifests in a nautical yacht club aesthetic thanks to Miu Miu's Spring '24 collection," she explains. Lean into the preppy aesthetic even further by wearing a pleated skirt and a sweater vest.
There are avid ballet flat collectors and those just dipping their toes into the girlhood aesthetic. Either way, VIVAIA’s Mary Janes are some of the most comfortable on the market. The base of these lightweight flats is embedded with a cushioned insole that will support your foot with every step. Marie Claire editors can attest to their topnotch comfort after test-driving them through a high-mileage Fashion Week.
New Balance's 530 low-top shoes also prioritize comfort. These classic white sneakers have a cushioned midsole for support and mesh panels to enhance breathability. Whether going on a lengthy jog or running casual errands, these sneakers are designed to be worn all day. According to the fashion set, chunky silhouettes will continue to rise high on the Spring '24 sneaker trends list, so you’ll be right on target if you decide to add them to your spring shoe collection.
If you think you’ve grown out of your fisherman sandals era, think again. Although fisherman silhouettes probably remind you of your childhood—especially if you’re a ‘90s baby—Melissa has infused them with a modern spirit. Style them with white socks, like Hailey Bieber, who repeatedly wears her Fisherman Caged Leather Sandals from The Row.
These minimalist shoes are absolute must-haves if you're looking for sleek mules to rotate throughout endless outfit formulas, and love vintage appeal. For springtime, style these heels with a white T-shirt and a satin slip skirt.
Satin is trending in the footwear world. Prada draped their Spring 2024 shoes in a fiery green and red version. For a more subdued hue (great for spring brides), this pair is designed with geometric-like straps and covered in smooth ivory-colored satin.
Key Features of the Best Spring Shoes
- Quality
While shopping for a pair of spring shoes, remember that quality is absolutely key—specifically, quality stitching. "The biggest thing I look for when shopping for shoes is quality stitching," says Graves. "If the shoe is glued instead of stitched, steer clear—it will fall apart after a few wears," she warns.
The ultimate goal is to have these shoes for the long run to build a sturdy collection that will last season after season. That said, investing in brands with a track record of excellent craftsmanship is best. You'll find that all of the brands listed above—from luxury fashion houses like Gucci to contemporary labels such as Sam Edelman—are renowned for designing their shoes with durable materials.
- Shoe Type
Since we’ve officially entered the spring season, it’s time to bid a temporary farewell to your heavy snow boots. They’ve gotten you through frigid winter weather, but they’ll only cause you to overheat during the warmer months. Instead, opt for shoes that are more breathable—like sandals with a barely-there silhouette, sneakers made from airy fabric, or mesh ballet flats.
- Comfort
Above all, comfort should be prioritized. "In the spring, you're likely spending more time outdoors on different terrain," says Frank. "Whether you're having a cocktail on the beach or attending a garden party wedding, you need durable and comfortable shoes."
You’ll want to ensure that your shoes also offer ample arch support, cushioning, and stability. The worst feeling is walking around in shoes that cause aches and pains, and that sense of discomfort can linger in extreme cases. But do not worry—Marie Claire's list of spring shoes was curated with comfort top of mind.
How to Style the Best Spring Shoes
The general category of spring shoes is quite expansive, which means there are a variety of styling options. Narrow it down by considering the occasion you're shopping for—casual, formal, or somewhere in between. We have a spring shoe style for all of them, and some can fit into multiple categories. Sneakers, fisherman sandals, and minimalist flats are great for casual outings, while ballet flats and Mary Janes, kitten heels, and pumps great finishing touches on occasionwear.
If you're leaning into a relaxed vibe, style your Adidas Samba sneakers with a T-shirt, a leather jacket, and jeans.
Adidas Samba sneakers are inherently versatile, so there are plenty of styling options out there. That said, you can never go wrong with a classic white T-shirt and jeans combo. Finish off your look with an edgy leather jacket, cat-eye shades, and a bold belt.
Ballet flats are must-haves for your spring work wardrobe.
Build your spring work outfit around a pair of comfortable ballet flats by wearing a basic T-shirt, Bermuda shorts, and a structured blazer. Layer a sweater over your shoulders in anticipation of chilly office air conditioners or just for fashion's sake—it's a fun styling element.
Peep-toe kitten heels pair nicely with a fitted LBD.
Are you heading to an event that calls for formalwear? Style a pair of peep-toe kitten heels with a fitted LBD. You can opt for a monochromatic look by wearing black heels or adding a bit of pop with a contrasting white shoe.
Meet The Expert
Lexie Chan is the regional director of operations at VIVAIA, where she has worked for the past several years. VIVAIA offers high-end footwear that blends sustainability with luxury.
Jess Graves is a writer of a self-published newsletter called The Love List, which explores the topics of culture and shopping. She is also the founder of Graves Creative, an agency that defines brand language and identity via advertising production, creative consulting, and graphic design.
Graves' work has appeared in Vogue, Town & Country, Complex, Vanity Fair, Atlanta Magazine, and Southern Living.
Marissa Galante Frank is the fashion director for accessories and beauty at Bloomingdale's, overseeing handbags, shoes, fine jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and beauty. In her role, Marissa drives the Bloomingdale’s vision for the trends shoppers can expect each season in-store and online. She collaborates across departments to develop exclusive merchandise for Bloomingdale’s private brands, and translate trends into a one-of-kind accessories and beauty assortment, spanning emerging and established brands.
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