Summer 2023 Shoe Trends: The Five Must-Have Styles
Explore summer 2023's hottest shoe trends – from sculptural heels to ballet flats, jellies, and more, perfect for every stylish wardrobe.
As the sun shines brighter and temperatures climb, summer 2023 is bringing an electrifying wave of shoe trends that promise comfort, style, and a playful approach to fashion. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe for work, evenings out, or spontaneous adventures, knowing the season’s biggest shoe movements is essential to staying on-point. This comprehensive guide covers five core summer shoe trends for 2023: Bulbous silhouettes, Balletcore, Barely-There Sandals, Jellies, and Sculptural Heels. These trends, straight from the runways and your favorite designers, offer endless options to elevate every outfit, no matter your vibe or agenda.
Table of Contents
Bulbous Shoes: Comfort Meets Cartoon Chic
One of summer’s most visually striking trends is the bulbous shoe. These feature bold, chunky, and sometimes cartoonishly exaggerated silhouettes that put comfort at the forefront while making a strong style statement. Runway designers and street style stars alike are embracing platform wedges and oversized mules, reimagining footwear in sculptural, playful forms that stand out effortlessly.
Why Bulbous? Bulbous styles are perfect for those seeking luxury in comfort without sacrificing looks. Their thick soles provide support for long days, while their whimsical shapes inject personality into any ensemble.
- Marc Fisher Ltd. Vayle Slip-On Platform Sandals
- Hanifa Zoe Mules – Notable for their plush profile
- Simon Miller Platform Bubble Wedge – Modern with a retro twist
| Brand | Style Description | Where to Wear |
|---|---|---|
| Marc Fisher Ltd. | Platform slip-on, thick yet lightweight | Parks, brunches, casual outings |
| Hanifa | Wide, padded mules with fashion-forward volume | Chic evenings, rooftop gatherings |
| Simon Miller | Bubbly wedge, playful and sculptural | City strolls, gallery visits |
Balletcore: Feminine, Versatile, Effortless
The balletcore trend brings back ballet flats in every possible iteration: embellished, printed, woven, or classic. These shoes were all over summer runways, now reimagined for urban life with extra comfort features and modern finishes. Ballet flats are ideal for the woman-on-the-go and those who appreciate femininity in their footwear.
Who Loves Balletcore? The trend appeals equally to minimalists and maximalists, letting you blend the soft elegance of ballet with bold summer style. No need to worry about pedicures – ballet flats are ready to go from office to evening in seconds.
- Eledera The Quadra Ballerina – Sleek, square toe shape
- Margaux Wovens – Handwoven luxury for breathable comfort
- Tamara Mellon Minty Ballerina – Metallic finishes for statement looks
Pair ballet flats with:
- Wide-leg trousers
- Flowy midi dresses
- Tailored shorts
| Style | Material | Key Attribute |
|---|---|---|
| Quadra Ballerina | Leather, modern square toe | Minimalist sophistication |
| Margaux Woven | Woven textile | Breathable comfort, artisanal details |
| Minty Ballerina | Metallic leather | Statement accent, evening-ready |
Barely-There Sandals: Minimalism, Maximum Style
Barely-there sandals epitomize the summer’s embrace of minimalism. With thin straps and simple silhouettes, these sandals blend seamlessly into any outfit, letting your summer style take center stage while emphasizing natural beauty and simplicity. They work for both day and night – from office attire with a sharp blouse and denim to vibrant summer dresses at sunset.
What others are reading
- Lightweight construction gives an airy feel.
- Undeniably versatile: from professional settings to parties.
- Pairs easily with bold prints or striking accessories.
Pro styling tip: Layer with anklets and toe rings for a subtle nod to Y2K accessorizing.
Jellies: Nostalgic Fun for Every Generation
Summer 2023 is hard on nostalgic feels—jellies are back with a vengeance! Whether you remember them from childhood or are discovering their playful translucent sparkle for the first time, jellies have been reimagined in every possible silhouette. Think fisherman sandals, classic slip-ons, and throwback mules, in unexpected colors and patterns.
- Flexible rubber blends for all-day comfort.
- Water-resistant and beach-friendly.
- Available in pastels, neons, and chic transparent hues.
Why Choose Jellies? Jellies evoke carefree summer energy and retro flair, making them the perfect pick for poolside afternoons, music festivals, and spontaneous road trips. Style them with wide-leg jeans, shorts, or dresses for a fun contrast.
Sculptural Heels: Artistry Underfoot
For those who treat shoes as wearable art, sculptural heels are the must-have statement pieces for summer 2023. Designers are getting creative with shapes and textures: wavy profiles, carved out forms, and even heels that look like modern sculpture, lending every look a striking architectural elegance.
- Bottega Veneta’s curved stilettos
- Off-White’s spring-heeled thigh-highs
- Loewe’s iconic geometric court shoes
Benefits of Sculptural Heels:
- Instant outfit elevation for day and night
- Conversation starters—expect compliments!
- Takes simple clothing from basic to iconic
Style tip: Keep the rest of your look streamlined to let the shoes steal the show. Neutral tones or solid colors help sculptural designs pop even more.
Trend Comparison Table
| Trend | Key Features | Best For | Versatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bulbous Shoes | Chunky, playful silhouettes | Comfort, making a statement | High (casual & chic) |
| Balletcore | Soft, classic ballet flats | All-day wear, urban life | Very high |
| Barely-There Sandals | Minimal strapping, simple design | Minimalist outfits, day to night | High |
| Jellies | Flexible, translucent rubber | Playful nostalgia, leisure | Medium |
| Sculptural Heels | Artful shapes, bold textures | Special occasions, fashion statements | Medium (depends on design) |
How to Style Summer 2023 Shoe Trends
- Mix Textures: Pair sculptural heels with linen separates or airy cotton for a modern juxtaposition.
- Embrace Color: Try jellies and bulbous shoes in unexpected shades to add vibrancy.
- Balance Proportions: Match bulky shoes with tailored pieces for visual balance; go minimal with barely-there sandals on busy prints.
- Play Up Accessories: Experiment with socks, anklets, and playful adornments, especially with ballet flats or jellies.
Where to Shop the Trends
Major designers and affordable brands alike have embraced these standout styles for summer 2023. Popular shopping destinations include:
- High-end retailers: Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue
- Label boutiques: Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Margaux
- Accessible brands: Zara, Mango, ASOS
Keep an eye on capsule collections and limited releases for exclusive summer drops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are any of these summer 2023 shoe trends suitable for formal events?
A: Absolutely. Sculptural heels and certain minimalist barely-there sandals are perfect for dressier occasions, bringing artful edge to eveningwear.
Q: How do I style jellies so they look polished and not childish?
A: Opt for muted or metallic jelly styles and pair with elevated basics like tailored shorts, minimal slip dresses, or crisp button-down shirts. Accessories like anklets can add a grown-up twist.
Q: Which trends are best for an active city lifestyle?
A: Ballet flats (balletcore), bulbous platform sandals, and jellies offer excellent comfort and flexibility for walking, commuting, and running errands.
Q: Are these trends suitable for all age groups?
A: Yes. The versatility of ballet flats and minimalist sandals appeals widely, while playful bulbous and jelly styles can be adapted for any age with careful styling.
Q: Can bold shoe trends work in professional environments?
A: Subtle versions of sculptural heels, minimalist sandals, and refined ballet flats are often perfect for the office, especially when chosen in neutral hues.
Final Thoughts: Express Yourself
Summer 2023’s shoe trends highlight fashion’s continuing love of comfort, nostalgic playfulness, and sculptural artistry. Whether you’re chasing the balletcore dream, stepping out in bulbous boldness, slipping on barely-there simplicity, reliving childhood with jellies, or showcasing sculptural sophistication, there’s a perfect shoe waiting for your summer story.
References
- https://www.enibbana.com/blogs/news/biggest-shoe-trends-for-spring-summer-2023
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9CNaYoeFY8
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/a43932919/summer-shoe-trends-2023/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/spring-summer-2023-fashion-trends-to-know
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/summer-fashion/
- https://www.aol.com/summer-shoes-cosmo-editors-wearing-165000717.html
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/tags/summer-shoe-trends
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