The 7 Most Popular Shoes of 2024 So Far

From sporty to chic, these are the shoe trends that have taken over this year.

With every year comes a new set of trends. In 2023, shoes like ballet flats and Mary Janes were having a major moment, with street style stars and celebrities alike donning the fashion-forward yet nostalgic footwear. This year, we’re seeing similar shoe styles dominate the fashion scene just with a slight upgrade.

Personal stylist Allie McKenna tells InStyle that while the go-to brands and overall designs have changed, many of the shoe trends we know and love are here to stay in 2024. “I think we're seeing the evolution of a trend that will always be around, just in different colorways and styles,” she says. “For example, loafers have minimized the chunkiness we initially saw a few years ago, but they're still here. And flats have also evolved from the Miu Miu-inspired ballets to the mesh.”

Whether you gravitate towards bold or classic footwear, there’s no shortage of options for all tastes. From kitten heel mules to sporty sneakers, we’ve broken down the top seven shoe trends to try before the year is over.

Mesh Shoes

Ballet flats got an upgrade this year with the rise of the mesh flat. Stylist Beverly Osemwenkhae of Project Bee Consulting says that netted footwear “adds the fun factor we need in our accessories” and is the perfect alternative to a heel. However, if you’re typically a stiletto gal, McKenna notes that mesh heels in a variety of designs and colors are just as popular as their flat counterpart.

Though mesh shoes make a bold fashion statement, they are versatile enough to be worn day or night. “My favorite way to wear this trend is with a wide leg pair of jeans and a slightly oversized plain T-shirt,” says McKenna. “Bonus points if you have the mesh, netted flat in a fun color, I personally have bright red, gold, and black.” For a night out, Osemwenkhae recommends reaching for a mini slip dress and an oversized denim jacket.

Cowboy Boots

In the year of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, it’s no surprise that cowboy boots have made their way from festival fashion staple to must-have footwear. While an ankle boot is a more modern choice, Osemwenkhae says that “tall cowboy boots are the way forward and we see that reflected in a lot of retail stores.” As for color, classic dark tones and bold metallics, especially silver, are the way to go for western-inspired boots that will be the statement piece of your ensemble.

“There's something sexy when you pair a cowboy boot with your look,” says Osemwenkhae. “I would style this boot with a high waist denim maxi skirt and crop varsity sweater. Keeping the aesthetic all-American but still making it fashion forward.”

Slingbacks

Slingbacks have made a comeback. The practical shoe offers more security thanks to its back strap and can elevate any casual ensemble, whether you reach for a heel or a flat. To really nail this trend, McKenna suggests opting for a “pair that has a kitten heel or is shiny or metallic.”

While slingbacks have a classic feel to them, you can juxtapose their elegant nature with a playful ensemble. “I have loved seeing the slingback kitten heel with a pair of capris and an off-the-shoulder top and an oversized clutch,” says McKenna. This shoe would also look great with a printed matching set for more formal occasions.

Sporty Sneakers

Sporty sneakers aren’t exactly a new trend. We’ve seen variations of this footwear gain popularity each year, with Adidas Sambas reigning supreme in 2023. But this year, McKenna says many people are either embracing Sambas in bolder hues or moving on to another Adidas sneaker: the Gazelle. “If you were one of the lucky ones to score the Wales Bonner leopard print collab or the silver metallic, you’re crushing it already,” she says. “That being said, Sambas have evolved from the neutral colorways to brighter, fun colors and patterns to spice up any outfit.”

Another sporty sneaker to take note of is the Salomon. The chunky sneaker has a drawstring closure and was originally designed for hiking and trail running for an outdoorsy vibe. “Recently, I’ve seen Salomon’s paired with a sleek satin maxi skirt, with a T-shirt or button-down,” says McKenna. “I’ve also only personally seen Salomon’s in the neutral colorways.”

Thong Heels

Early aughts trends are back and better than ever, including the divisive thong heels. An elevated version of flip-flops, thong heels have a minimalist design that makes them comfortable to walk in and can be a sexy addition to an ensemble if styled right. For an effortless look, McKenna recommends pairing thong heels with "a pair of wide leg trousers and a mini shoulder bag with chunky jewelry.”

Kitten Heel Mules

The kitten heel has had a resurgence in the last few years, and in 2024, the kitten heel mule is the versatile style you should have on your radar. Thanks to its low heel, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort, and while Osemwenkhae notes that neutral tones seem to be the favored look for this trend, you can also keep it playful with a fun print.

From open-toe to slingback designs, Osemwenkhae says that kitten heel mules are “a style that can be easily worn from desk to dinner.” She recommends pairing your mules with casual garments like straight leg tapered jeans and a simple white tee, but still keeping the look elevated with a leather blazer.

Loafers

Loafers, while typically reserved for cooler months, are a chic shoe trend that Osemwenkhae says is “definitely here to stay." We’ve seen a lot of chunky designs in years past, but there has been a return to sleek and classic designs in 2024. McKenna notes that flat loafers, also known as penny loafers, should be added to your shoe rotation. For those who prefer a little more height, Osemwenkhae says loafers with a block heel (a favorite of Taylor Swift) are also having a moment.

To embrace a preppy look, Osemwenkhae suggests pairing your loafers with a silk blouse, leather shorts, and a silk duster. Another way to interpret this shoe style is to craft an outfit with even more on-trend garments. For example, McKenna says she has been pairing her loafers with bubble skirts or a slip dress with ruffle socks.

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