This season’s shoes were defined by a bold mix of nostalgia and nuance. High-profile runway debuts have honoured classic looks, while simultaneously unveiling reinvented, playful new takes. Whether your style leans maximal, minimal, or somewhere in between, these are the silhouettes set to define Spring/Summer 2026, and inevitably, make their way into every well-curated basket.
SLIM SNEAKERS
Clunky soles are stepping aside in favour of something sleeker. This season’s sneakers feel lighter, a quiet nod to last year’s ballet-core, reworked into something more wearable. Keep it grounded with soft neutrals and earthy tones, or if you’re feeling brave, introduce a jolt of colour to lift even the simplest looks.
For a local take, look to Zee Official’s understated iterations.
GLOVE PUMPS
Soft, sculpted, and impossibly refined – rooted in 90s nostalgia, glove pumps are the understated heel fashion keeps returning to. Designed to mould to the foot, they bring a sense of ease to more polished dressing. Style them with relaxed tailoring or fluid skirts; the contrast is where they feel the most modern. Shades of black, cream and caramel will carry you through the season.
SPRING BALLET SLIPPERS
Still holding their ground, but with a quieter, more classic confidence. This Spring’s ballet flats feel less precious and more grown up. Think supple leather, squared toes and subtle finishes. Worn with everything from denim to slip dresses, they offer an effortless balance between comfort and polish. Opt for classic black, a heeled red or soft metallics.
For a local take, look to Sole22’s soft, wearable silhouettes.
BACKLESS LOAFERS
A staple that refuses to feel predictable. Backless loafers offer a new edge to a timelessly chic classic, while striking that ideal in-between of structured, yet relaxed. Ideal for days that blur into evenings, they pair as easily with denim as they do with tailoring. Rich browns, high-shine black and deep-burgundy keep them feeling elevated.
For a local take, look to Achilles’s elevated classics.
WHIMSICAL HEELS
If we can take anything from Jonathan Anderson’s Dior Autumn/Winter 27 runway it’s that a little bit of whimsy goes a long way. This season’s heels lean playful, marked by sculptural shapes, unexpected details and a touch of surrealism. They’re less about practicality, more about personality. Let them anchor a simple outfit, making a statement with floral-applique styles to elongated, sharp toes.
For a local take, look to WeAreRamla’s playful statement heels.
RETRO CLOGS
A quiet revival, but a welcome one. The 70s staple returns with a fresh identity and a softer edge. Smoother finishes, refined silhouettes and a more wearable weight. Style with flowing fabrics and capri trousers to balance out the look – or opt for a heel or cut cowboy silhouette for an added edge.
For a local take, look to Nucci directional designs.
FASHION-FORWARD FLIP-FLOPS
The flip-flop has been reworked into something altogether more elevated. Think leather, subtle heels and clean lines. Worn with sharp tailoring or minimalist dresses, they bring an unexpected ease to everyday dressing. Sneak in a bold hint of color or a sleek micro wedge to give a summer look a modern twist that fits right in the city or by the sea.
For a local take, look to Pixi’s polished essentials.
