Picture this: you're running late for your 8AM lecture and getting dressed in a hurry, when you realize that you don't have any shoes that match your super cute outfit. Sigh. You try on every pair you own (now running even later than before, whoops) before throwing on your everyday sneakers in defeat and head out the door.
Sound familiar? While we love the good ol' faithful dad sneaks we've had for years, your shoe wardrobe deserves the same love that you show the rest of your closet. Don't throw out your trusty sandals and comfy flip-flops (they're the backbone of society, TBH) but do buckle in, because we're about to inject some fabulousness into your warm-weather wardrobe — these spring shoe trends are almost too cute to ignore.
Bold neon girlies and preppy plaid lovers alike will find plenty of inspo, because we're giving your footwear lineup a major glow-up thanks to our favorite 2023 spring shoe trends, below.
Ballet Flats
No need for years of formal dance training — you'll be plié-ing and dégagé-ing your way to the cafeteria in this style that was big in the early 2010s and is now coming back with full force. Spice up a pair of delicate ballet flats with a little bow detailing or lace-up ribbon, if you're feeling fancy.
Rothys The Point
Madewell Maguire Prato
C.Paravano Red Square Toe Flats
Multi-Colored Crochet
The crochet trend blew up around 2020 (TikTok taught us all how to crochet during quarantine, right?) and it's been lingering in subtle ways. Maybe a headband, a bag charm, or a little crochet detail on your shoes to add a handmade touch to your 'fit.
FP Collection Catch Me If You Can Sneakers
French Knot Granny Square Slippers
Wedge Heels
This trend sparks joy in us mainly because it's significantly easier to walk in wedges than it is to walk in thin stiletto heels. You'll still get that height boost, along with even more surface area on your shoes to show off a funky pattern or bright color.
Vince Camuto Larahana Wedge Sandal
ROSERWISH Ankle Strap Buckle 4 Inch Heels
Cork Details
Each time the weather warms up again, a few things inevitably happen: flowers bloom, moods improve, and straw, linen, or cork sandals start to trend again. Switch things up with a splash of color or some stud detailing for ~texture~.
Steve Madden Steve Madden Canary Platform Sandal
Super Chunky Heels
These whimsical, larger-than-life heels are pure joy. Basically, the more the shoes look like plastic Barbie or Polly Pocket heels, the more on-trend they are. Think bubble shoes, major platforms, or geometric angles.
Vince Camuto Feshania Platform Mule
Matisse Coconuts by Matisse Bubble Clogs
'70s Clogs
Your mom's sick vintage pantsuit that's been sitting in the back of your closet is dyingggg to be paired with a wooden clog. These babies give off groovy boho vibes that'll match your flare jeans (or flare yoga pants, if we're being real) to perfection.
MIA Abba Mule
Allegra K Slingback Platform Chunky Beige Sandals
Charles & Keith Gabine Floral Denim Studded Clogs
Pointy Toes
Every small-shirt-baggy-pants combination needs the perfect pointed-toe shoe to balance it out. If you're going for a super fierce prom look, keep an eye out for a pointy (yet comfy) heel and a matching clutch to seal the deal.
WAYDERNS Patent Pointed Toe Ankle Strap Stilettos
Steve Madden Vala Pump
Bright Plaids & Prints
Plaid has traditionally been a fall/winter print (y'know, because of flannels and lumberjacks and all that). However, for Spring 2023, runways and stores alike are coming out with the most cheerful plaid prints, like, ever. You'll be totally picnic-ready in these statement shoes.
Larroudé Miso Clog Heels
Cordani Zorba Clog
Neon Shades
If you've been noticing bright '80s colors and silhouettes trending for prom, you're right on the money. Score a pair of matching shoes to go with your neon puffed-sleeve dress and it'll look like you stepped right out of a ridiculously stylish time machine.
Steve Madden Harlin Heeled Sandal
LISHAN Chunky Heel Square Open Toe Heels
Cowboy Boots
It's time to put on your stompin' shoes! You don't have to be wearing cow print and dusty leather to tap into the Western vibe — there are plenty of colorful, metallic, and whimsical printed versions of cowboy boots that work for everyone from country music fans to city girls.
AOSPHIRAYLIAN Mid Calf Cute Heart Cowgirl Boots
CYNLLIO Butterfly Embroidery Western Cowboy Boots
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
