4 shoe trends that are in right now and 3 that are out, according to stylists

Patrick Kenger, the lead personal stylist and founder of styling and image consulting company Pivot, said the chunky, casual mule styles popular in recent seasons are evolving into a more polished look in the form of loafer mules.

“Instead of chunkier styles, we’re seeing slimmer silhouettes made from materials like leather or suede,” Kenger told BI.

He said the backless shoe keeps the easy slip-on feel of a mule, but features a closed-toe, classic loafer-style top that can elevate casual outfits.

All three stylists agreed that people are turning to footwear as a way to show more personality in their outfits.

From embellishments and color blocking to bold prints and interesting materials, Natalie Tincher — the principal stylist and founder of BU Style — said statement shoes are gaining momentum after several seasons dominated by minimalist styles.

“We’re seeing things like extra straps, bold prints like zebra or leopard, and even more adventurous materials,” Kenger told BI. “In men’s shoes, that might mean loafers in snakeskin or other textured finishes.”

Stylist Vanessa Powell said boho-inspired clogs are reemerging this season, as vintage styles continue to make a comeback.

“It’s fun to see the vintage resurgence because you can find these styles in so many vintage stores, but a lot of brands are bringing them back as well,” Powell told BI.

Featuring earthy tones, including mustard, beige, and soft pink, this trend leans into natural materials like wooden or cork soles, the stylist said.

“Low-profile sneakers offer a cleaner look and work with the wide range of bottom silhouettes that are trending right now,” Tincher said.

Because these shoes sit closer to the foot, she said the slender design creates more balance than bulkier sneakers. Plus, they feel less athletic than traditional running shoes, making them easier to wear with a range of outfits.

Some versions feature decorative laces or satin finishes, while others lean toward a simpler, minimalist look.

Once popular in offices as a way to bridge comfort and professional attire, Kenger said the hybrid-style sneaker ultimately misses the mark.

“They’re kind of like a dress shoe on top and a sneaker on the bottom,” the stylist told BI. “They don’t really play a good role in either situation.”

Instead, he said many people are moving away from this in-between style and choosing shoes that clearly lean casual or formal.

According to Tincher, as fashion shifts toward comfort and wearability, towering heels are becoming less common.

“Instead of sky-high heels, we’re seeing more block heels or heels with interesting shapes,” Tincher told BI.

The stylist said curved heels, in particular, are trending right now, because they keep the height more practical while still offering a fashionable aesthetic.

Although white sneakers will always be considered classic, Tincher said the bright-white look can feel limiting.

“I would consider updating a white sneaker to something off-white or with softer neutral tones, like ecru or light gray,” she told BI.

Plus, the softer shades make the shoes more versatile year-round, and are easier to style with a wider range of outfits.