The Key To Chic: Top Women's Footwear Trends for 2018

February 19, 2018

Top Women's Footwear Trends for 2018

I've just returned from a season at MAGIC trade shows, the biggest American trade show for the fashion industry. FNPlatform is the footwear division that's part of MAGIC, and I scoured the trade show floor to document emerging shoe trends for spring and fall 2018. In this report, I'll be sharing the top five themes that stood out. So let's get started.

1. Sculptural Statement Heels
Sure, kitten heels and block heels are strong silhouettes for 2018, but there's a new movement towards more sculptural heels for spring and fall. Cone shapes, slight curves, and artistic shapes take center stage. Clockwise, from top left: Carrano, N.Y.L.A., Vicenza, and Carrano.

See more sculptural heels:

2. High Shine
Practically every booth I peeked into or browsed included some representation of glossy finishes, metallics, or patent leather. With the resurgence of the '80s this fall, footwear is right in line with this notice-me trend. Clockwise, from top left: Carrano, Vicenza, N.Y.L.A., and Carrano.

Shop shiny shoes:

3. Slide Them On
The chic mule silhouette (in a pointy toe shape) continues to be a strong theme for 2018, as do casual slide sandals. Expect to see fun embellishments such as embroidery, fringe, lace-up details, and shiny finishes. Clockwise, from top left: Vicenza, Ipanema, Schutz, and Schutz.

mules and slides footwear fashion trend 2018

See more slides and mules:

4. Fit To Be Tied
Knotted and bow details add flair to chic booties, sleek heels, and fun sandals. Combined with metallics and muted shades of pink, they make a stylish statement. Clockwise, from top left: Schutz, Vicenza, Coconuts by Matisse, and Schutz.

Browse knotted and bow styles:

5. Menswear Moment
Loafers, booties, and oxfords get the menswear treatment with plaid prints, buckles, grommets, and two-tone styling. Clockwise, from top left: Vicenza, N.Y.L.A., N.Y.L.A., and N.Y.L.A.

See more menswear shoes:

This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links.

Follow along on social media @thekeytochic for more trend reports and fashion inspiration.
See more trends for spring 2018 in my retail report on The Key To Chic and get more fashion inspiration via my blogs:

Women's 2018 denim trends

Men's spring summer 2018 fashion trend forecast

Women's spring summer 2018 fashion trend forecast

Women's fall 2018/winter 2019 fashion trend forecast (macro trends)

Women's fall 2018/winter 2019 trend forecast (four key themes)

Women's spring summer 2019 fashion trend forecast

Love shoes as much as I do? See more shoe trends.

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