“There’s a real appetite right now for dressing with more emotion and intention, and less interest in things that feel disposable,” says Miista CEO and founder Laura Villasenin. “It’s all about balance: Soft but strong, familiar yet a little unsettling, traditional but rebellious. That contrast feels very honest — it’s how people want to show up now. You can be refined and strange all at once.”
There are a slew of shoe trends making waves in the new year. From 3D flowers at Dior and Proenza Schouler that look like they were picked by hand, to gothic details fueled by brands like Alexander McQueen, as well as inspiration derived from this year’s color trends and Margot Robbie’s stellar Wuthering Heights press run, this season’s footwear is all about using your wardrobe to convey who you are to the world.
“For a lot of people heading into 2026, that kind of dressing feels empowering — choosing pieces with character, story, and a point of view, rather than just following what’s next,” Villasenin says. However, don’t just take our word for it. Keep reading for a list of subversive shoe trends that will make your outfits feel very now indeed.