You don't need to splash out on a whole new wardrobe to nail the biggest trends of spring/summer 2024. In fact, that's something we actively discourage. A far more planet- and wallet-friendly way to upgrade your look for the season ahead is to invest in trend-led accessories that have the power to elevate even the simplest outfits. Be it the 'It' bag of the moment (that still has timeless appeal), a new sunglasses silhouette, statement earrings, shoes, or all of the above, the key to a bang-on-trend ensemble is all in the details.
As a lifelong shoe obsessive, I always start my seasonal switch-up from the feet up, and I recommend you do the same. For SS24, the runways have decreed that it's all about mesh flats, cowboy boots, minimalist thong sandals and ballerina styles – all of which, thankfully, are as comfortable as they are chic.
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Wedges are also having a moment thanks to the viral FROW at Chloé's show, and other brands have hopped on the trend with modern designs of their own. As for those requiring a pop of colour to brighten an otherwise-all-black summer goth ensemble (guilty!), red shoes are the way to go.
So, without further ado, these are the trending shoes to invest in for SS24.
The ELLE Guide To SS24's Trending Shoes
Mesh Flats
Now that the sun is finally out and the rain less frequent (fingers crossed), it's high time to embrace the mesh flats trend that's been dominating the fashion scene. The shoes' barely-there nature means they're super-breathable and perfect for the warm weather, while the sheer material makes them feel deliciously risqué. Alaïa's fishnet designs should be your first port of call, but if you want to dip your toe in with something more delicate first, try and nab a pair of Dear Frances' Ballas before they sell out yet again.
Alaïa Leather-trimmed fishnet ballet flats
Khaite Marcy Crystal-Embellished Mesh Ballet Flats
COS Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
Dear Frances Balla Mesh Strap
Thong Sandals
It's not always the loudest shoes that have the biggest impact. Case in point: this season's minimalist thong sandals – think flip flops, but fancy – that are the epitome of effortless cool. This is a shoe that works seriously hard, as stylish paired with an oversized shirt and capri pants for the day as it is are with a linen mini or something more formal come night.
Toteme Leather thong sandals
THE ROW Ginza two-tone leather and suede platform flip flops
Zara Kitten Heel Sandals
Reformation Jessie Thong Sandal
Cowboy Boots
The Western trend has well and truly taken hold this season, with everyone from Beyoncé to Bella Hadid spearheading a Texan revival that extends all the way to our footwear. For a look that's more fashion than farmer, pair SS24's cowboy boots with long lace boho dresses à la Celine, style with a silky slip and oversized blazer, or tuck into baggy jeans for an off-duty cool-girl vibe.
Ganni Leather Cowboy Boots
Khaite Dallas Leather Knee Boots
A Pop Of Red
If red tights and socks provided your pop of colour in autumn, then allow a pair of red shoes to do the same this season – whether with Gucci's already-iconic deep-burgundy patent sling-backs, or Reformation's telephone-box-hued square-toe mules. A game-changer wardrobe addition for anyone looking to zhuzh up a tired palette of summer neutrals.
Gucci Signoria Slingback Pumps
Reformation Megan Flat Mule
Cos Pointed Mesh Slingback Kitten Heels
Arket Mesh Ballerinas
Ballerina Shoes
Not since the Noughties have ballet shoes been so ubiquitous, and the trend seems to be sticking this time around too. From high-end designers to the high-street, there are endless ballerina styles to choose from this season, whether classic satin slippers, bedazzled show-stoppers, or Margiela's edgy split-toe Tabis. The best part? They go with absolutely everything, so you can splash out on your favourites safe in the knowledge that cost-per-wear will be pretty much zero.
Mango Satin Ballerinas With Buckle
Dear Frances Balla Crystal Pumps
Pretty Ballerinas Lea Flats
Margiela Tabi Split-Toe Leather Ballet Flats
Mega Wedges
Now that wedding season is in full swing, you'll be glad to hear that wedges are officially back – just not quite as you know them. Forget the trusty canvas-tie espadrille styles of garden parties past: for SS24, we're coveting stacked shoes with a more sleek, minimal and modern aesthetic, as seen everywhere from Ferragamo and Rick Owens to Zara. The cult style of the season, however, is undoubtedly Chloé's viral, graffiti-ed mega wedge – if you've got the ankle strength to walk in them, that is.
Chloé Maxime Wedge Sandal
Reformation Enya Wedge Sandal
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Clementina Jackson is the Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan and Women’s Health UK, covering everything from and catwalk trends to buzzy brands and the cult products you need to know about (and shop before they sell out). She also commissions first-person and long-form fashion features, oversees and tests out the latest industry innovations. Clementina previously worked as Digital Fashion Editor at , during which time she profiled high-end designers, interviewed everyone from Priyanka Chopra to Jane Fonda, and launched the franchise to shine a light on size-inclusive fashion. During this time, she was also named as a PPA 30 Under 30 award winner. Having worked in journalism for more than six years, Clementina has also written for the likes of , , , and , covering everything from luxury travel, lifestyle and restaurants to photography and interiors.
