Retro Footwear Trends That Are Owning 2025

Bold soles, blast-from-the-past energy, and iconic comebacks

Fashion in 2025 is bringing back classic shoe styles with a modern twist. Mary Janes now double as work-ready heels, clogs have been updated with a designer edge, and skater shoes are showing up in high-fashion collections. This isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a return to the styles that shaped past decades.

Let’s break down the vintage vault being flung open in the boldest, most fashion-forward ways.

Chunky Soles, Sculpted Heels

The ’70s flared heel is back, but now it’s architectural. The chunk is still there—but it’s been refined, polished, and made artful.

Block heels with flowy gowns beautifully merge vintage glamour with contemporary sophistication. The retro DNA remains, but the soft silhouette now boasts sharp lines and contemporary flair. These heels add structure to light dresses in a simple, eye-catching way. Pair your block heels with floaty chiffon or a minimal power suit to balance the boldness with refined shapes.

Ballet Flats Get Recast

Ballet flats are back in style, now with a modern twist. Look for square toes, satin finishes, and a bold, updated look that feels fresh and current. Contrast is everything. Pair soft, romantic silhouettes with sharper, more angular ballet flat styles to keep things contemporary.

Mary Janes Reimagined

The classic strapped shoe is back in fashion’s good graces. We’re seeing more double and triple straps, block heels, and bold combinations—like Mary Janes worn with suits or leather skirts. The more unexpected the pairing, the more modern the look. 

Pair velvet Mary Janes with tailored suits to create an office-to-dinner glow-up, or throw them on with a leather skirt and graphic tee for an unexpected rebel-core vibe. Silk socks and minimalist black Mary Janes with oversized trenches scream corporate glam—a tip from the fashion insider’s book.

Y2K Sneakers Roll In

Here comes the chunky, grippy, low-to-the-ground kicks that once ruled the skate park and now own the runway. These sneakers have evolved without losing their statement comfort. Shop for Y2K sneakers in fresh colours and cleaner lines. Pair your skater sneakers with feminine fits for that perfect high-low tension. Think prairie skirts, midi dresses, or even tailored trousers for that true-blue retro look with a contemporary twist.

Clog Couture

Clogs have officially entered their main-character era. We’re talking embellished uppers, suede finishes, and cherrywood soles. Pair your clogs with flowy silk sets, oversized denim jackets, or go full contrast with a tailored mini. Add socks for Scandi-core realness.

Look for wooden soles and luxe uppers. Then, mix them with silky separates or denim-on-denim for maximum contrast.

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