![woman wearing ballet flats](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/smDCGyw6Kat3ynbdf2yPrD-415-80.jpg)
Shopping enthusiasts, listen up. The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale is in full swing, which means that from now until Sunday, June 2, you can save up to 50 percent on thousands of summer fashion pieces, from elevated summer basics to vacation essentials. While refreshing my warm-weather wardrobe, I immediately jumped on the opportunity to peruse the virtual sale section and discovered that Nordstrom’s footwear category is filled with the latest summer shoe trends—ballet flats, kitten heels, and platform sandals.
All three of these styles have made quite a splash recently. Dainty ballet flats ruled Sandy Liang, Simone Rocha, and Phillip Lim's Spring 2024 runways. Designer labels like Prada, Gucci, and Valentino showcased a range of ladylike kitten heels. Meanwhile, sky-high platforms entered the chat during the Fall 2024 Fashion Week circuit through brands like Isabel Marant, Loewe, and Victoria Beckham.
Bottom line: There's no sign of these shoe trends fizzling out during the warmer months ahead. My advice to you? Shop them now before they sell out. Keep scrolling, and you'll find a curated list of the top shoe trends heating up for summer.
Shop Ballet Flats From Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale
If you’re looking for classic ballet flats, Marc Fisher LTD’s Espina shoes fit the bill with a nude hue, a round toe, and a strap above the vamp. These shoes sleek leather fabric gives it an extra polished feel.
Rising temperatures signal it's time to fill your wardrobe with cheerful pastels. You can go the trendy route and opt for shades like glacial blue and butter yellow or dabble in other summery pastel color palettes with hues like mint green, blushes, and light purple.
Retro Mary Janes have dominated the fashion trend cycles for the past few seasons, and it looks like they're already poised to take over again this summer. Sam Edelman’s version puts a modern twist on this old-school style with soft pleated details around the toe box.
Mesh-paneled flats are everywhere. These embroidered lace shoes from Jeffrey Campbell offer a sophisticated take on the trending see-through style.
Alongside their sweet aesthetic, ballet flats embellished with mesh fabric can also be functional during warmer months. For sizzling summer days when you don’t feel like wearing closed-toe shoes, turn to Open Edit’s breathable Desi flats.
Sam Edelman’s intricately woven ballet flats are offered in a range of seven flattering shades, but I’m most partial to this sandy color for the sake of versatility. This neutral shade will pair effortlessly with any color.
I’m a no-frills gal with a pretty simple shoe wardrobe. But I'm looking to revamp my footwear collection slightly, and I'm starting with these Tory Burch slip-ons. The subtle stitched exterior forms a captivating quilted texture that sets these shoes apart from others in the ballet flat category.
The whimsical girlhood aesthetic is still going strong. Lean into it with Kate Spade’s ballet flats, plastered in a powdery pink shade and adorned with a tiny bow. Pair these shoes with a pleated skirt and a fitted blouse to take the ultra-feminine vibe even further.
Shop Kitten Heels From Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale
Open Edit’s striking kitten heels boast a relaxed flair and stonewashed denim exterior. Consider styling these shoes with white wide-leg pants and a structured white T-shirt for a laid-back summer occasion.
Ladylike kitten heels with slingback silhouettes are having quite a fashion moment, and I’m on a mission to find a pair. These demure heels from Marc Fisher LTD have an endearing vintage look that I absolutely love.
As a devoted wearer of Cole Haan shoes, I can confidently say that the label specializes in comfortable footwear. These sleek pumps feature supple, smooth leather that won't dig into your foot and a cushioned footbed that promotes arch support.
I think I just found a new pair of shoes to add to my rotation of summer work outfits. For balmy days ahead, I plan to wear these black pointed-toe heels, floor-grazing tailored trousers, and a breezy button-down top.
For a bold statement look, slide into Linea Paolo’s kitten heels, which command attention with a pronounced buckled strap and a sculptural shape. The strap is adjustable, so you can modify the fit to your liking.
If you want to wear a polished pump without a high heel, let me point you toward Stuart Weitzman’s kitten heels. These timeless shoes are grounded with a heel just below two inches to achieve an elevated look without the discomfort of sky-high stilettos.
Not only are Naturalizer’s Felicia pumps super sleek, but they’re also functional. In addition to showcasing a range of sizes, the brand offers a roomier construction for shoppers with wider feet.
I prefer to get the most out of my shoes, which means that I often search for transeasonal footwear that I can wear for months on end. SARTO by Franco Sarto’s kitten heels are high on my wishlist because I can easily take these cognac brown shoes from summer to fall.
Shop Platform Sandals From Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale
Lofty-heeled sandals can be daunting, but you don’t necessarily have to wear towering shoes to participate in the platform trend. Instead, opt for chunky sandals with a low heel, like these shoes from Aerosoles, which provide ample stability.
As a city dweller who walks practically everywhere, I prioritize footwear that’s easy to move around. When I discovered that Nordstrom’s Claudia platforms have a lightweight construction and a sturdy block heel, I knew I had to add them to my shopping cart immediately.
If you’re not afraid of heights, these ALDO platform sandals are a fun platform option. They’re designed with a four-inch heel for an elevated lift that gives off the main character's energy.
Sam Edelman’s woven platform sandals have a delightful summery feel. To top off the look, pair these shoes with a breezy white dress and a designer-style beach bag.
I instantly clicked on Veronica Beard’s platform sandals for their uncomplicated slip-on style. There’s no buckling or tying involved.
Marc Fisher LTD’s Quessa shoes make a strong case for the return of boho-inspired sandals. The contrast between the buttery leather upper and textured cork sole reminds me of the Y2K-era platforms that I used to wear as a teen, and I’m definitely on board with bringing this look back.
I have a few engagement parties lined up on my summer schedule, and I’ve been scrambling to figure out what heels to wear. After stumbling across Jeffrey Campbell’s ankle strap platforms, I think I can finally put my footwear-related stress to rest. These neutral sandals will complement any dress, and they’re only $44, so I won’t have to break the bank.
NYDJ’s groovy slide sandals prove that what’s old becomes new again. The suede lining, peep-toe shape, and flared block heel evoke a very '70s-inspired mood.
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Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.
When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.
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