Spring & Summer 2022 Footwear Forecast

Are you getting spring fever? I certainly am. As I’ve been ordering things to take to Florida with me, both to wear and to photograph for the blog, I’ve practically started itching with excitement. And we’re still seeing relatively little spring styles in the stores yet. But we are seeing just enough to whet our appetites. So today we’re continuing with part four of our Spring & Summer 2022 Fashion Forecast series. I’m sharing four upcoming footwear trends that I consider to be highly wearable (if you wish to participate) and one that I’m skipping…at least for now.

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4 Wearable Footwear Trends for Spring & Summer 2022

I’ve heard it said that this is the year of the shoes. Indeed, with jeans and pants lengths shortening, we’re going to see more of a focus on footwear in outfits. So much more than just functional, shoes will be a major player in the composition of outfits.

Shoes can really make or break an outfit. Or at least they can change the overall look of an outfit dramatically. In fact, spring is one of my favorite seasons to share several different footwear options for an outfit so you can see how much that single choice changes things up.

Inspired by the Men

I think menswear inspired shoes can be an especially lovely option for older women because they are often comfortable. But they also create beautiful juxtaposition in an outfit when combined with more feminine pieces, which many of us love to wear in spades. Additionally, shoes with traditionally masculine detailing can add a touch of distinction and sophistication to an otherwise casual look.

Of course, this trend includes several types of footwear, such as lace-up boots (shown above), lug sole loafers and boots, Oxfords and brogues. But it also includes women’s footwear with traditionally masculine details.

The key to wearing these styles is to balance them out with feminine attire or accessories. In fact, the mixture can be quite appealing.

Remember, I’m sharing the fashions I can currently find in each of these trends in the shopping widgets below. Some of these are indeed quite pricey. But selection is quite low at this point; I’m just sharing examples so we can get a feel for the trends coming our way.

Where to start: Look for menswear inspired details such as tassels, chain links, lug soles, laceups and squared off toe boxes in the shoes you already love to wear. Consider how you’ll combine more feminine elements to your outfits to balance the menswear inspired shoes. You can find menswear inspiration in everything from pumps to loafers to sandals to sneakers.

Birk-Like

In recent years we saw Birkenstocks experience a resurgence in popularity. This year, we’re seeing Birk-like shoes or sandals from other brands. These are generally very casual shoes, but the trend has become to wear them with skirts and dresses as well as jeans and shorts.

Similar to the menswear inspired trend, Birkenstocks and their look-alikes can look great when worn with other elements that are a little more feminine and soft.

Where to start: Consider if the Birkenstock sandal vibe works with your personal style essence. If you decide to give them a try, watch for look-alikes or consider if you’d prefer to go with the long-trusted brand. They’re generally wide shoes with ample arch support, but they’re not for everyone.

A Little Ballet Flats

Another shoe style we’re welcoming back to the spotlight is the ballet flat. Now remember, a trend is sometimes new, but more often than not a trend is just a familiar style that has cycled back around in popularity. So you may have ballet flats in your wardrobe already. But in recent years the mule and loafer have overshadowed these sweet, feminine shoes somewhat.

Ballet flats can indeed look very charming and feminine. And they’re a nice dressier option for women who prefer not to wear heels. But you’ll want to pay careful attention to the structure of this traditionally very flat shoe if you need special arch support or other considerations. And ballet flats constructed from leather will have more give and stretch than those made from manmade fibers.

Where to start: You can go two different routes with your ballet flats this spring. Choose a pair in nude, denim or trending cognac to wear with versatility. Or look for a pair of ballet flats in one of the trending colors, such as Daffodil yellow or Poinciana red, to add a splash of cheer to your outfits.

Go Fish!

Fisherman sandals have been slowly rising in popularity over the past few years. These are the warm weather shoes that feature thick, substantial straps across the front of the foot and traditionally enclosing the toe. You probably bought these for your children when they were toddlers.

While they may evoke memories of your children in their Sunday best, these very wearable sandals could be fun to incorporate into your spring and summer wardrobe. They can indeed look a little old-fashioned, so look for modern details like lug soles, smaller straps (like these above), trending colors or block heels. You can wear these sandals with everything from jeans to shorts to skirts.

Where to start: Since this trend was around last year, you’ll find great deals on these sandals (some in the widget above), but they may be final sale.

Additional Shoe Trends Worth Checking Out

Of course I’ve barely exposed the tip of the iceberg when it comes to shoe trends for spring and summer. We’ll continue to see sneakers trend, especially in the fun, retro trainers, which can make an outfit look effortlessly modern. We’re seeing chunky and unusual heel shapes in sandals and pumps. Plus platforms are trending again this year. You’ll still see lots of mules and slides (check out these from Tory Burch for inspiration). And look for lots of color and other fun elements in footwear, echoing the culture’s cry for more joy and activity.

Functional sport sandals are still going to be popular as people escape their homes and get out and explore more. Loafers are still trending. Look for them with those lug soles and other chunky elements, but also expect to see more feminine silhouettes and colors this spring.

Really, it’s a wear what makes you happy atmosphere this year. And that includes footwear.

The One I’m Sitting Out

While I actually love this style of footwear on other women, I’ll be sitting this one out.

Going Gladiator

I guess I’m more of a minimalist when it comes to my own footwear. I just don’t do fussy. And while they look beautiful on other women, I don’t even have any desire to put a pair of gladiator sandals on my feet…or up my legs!

Another consideration that keeps me from participating in this trend is that ankle straps draw attention to and emphasize your ankles. My ankles are on the thicker side, so I generally steer clear of straps there. But if you have slender ankles, definitely go for this trend. Gladiator sandals are so on trend, and they can make your legs and feet look beautiful. Plus they had fun interest to any outfit.

Where to start: Consider participating in this sandal (and espadrille) trend if you have slender ankles and enjoy wearing skirts, dresses and shorts. You can find Gladiator-type shoes with buckles and ties, so choose the style that works best for your preferences.

Thanks so much for stopping in today. Remember, this is part four in our Spring and Summer Fashion Forecast, so you can check out the other posts in this series below.

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Blessed for My Day

Whatever shoes you put on today, as you lace them, buckle them or slip them onto your feet let’s remember to also put on the gospel of peace. If we have accepted the free gift of salvation in Christ Jesus, then we have the privilege of walking in the assurance that “it is well with my soul.” We are at peace with our creator.

But not everyone you will encounter today has that blessed assurance. That is why we must share the good news of grace with them. Do you know how to share the good news of Jesus crucified, buried and risen? Consider memorizing at least the addresses of “the Romans road” so you can take the good news wherever you walk today: Romans 3:23; 6:23; 5:8; 10:9-10 and 10:13. Then commit to sharing that good news as you are given opportunity.

 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ~ Ephesians 6:15

And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” ~ Romans 10:15