The very idea of "cloud shoes” sounds heavenly, but they’re even better once you lay eyes on them. Puffy, padded shoes have been on the rise since last year but what was once a micro-trend has now grown into a major trend that is dominating footwear in 2021. It makes sense given the rise in comfortable yet fashion-forward pieces to wear for days booked with Zoom calls.
At the end of last year, we saw the pillow shoe trend take off, spearheaded by the launch of Louis Vuitton’s down-filled puffy ankle boots finished in with quilted nylon of the brand’s iconic monogram logo. Then there are the Yeezy 500 sneakers. While the style isn’t new—in fact, the original release dates backs to 2018—they have a renewed cult following among the fashion set who have been snapping up the pillowy cushioned sneakers. Looking forward, there are plenty of other cloud shoes that are set to become fashion insiders favorites. I’m placing bets on styles like puffed up flips-flops and padded leather slides that are as directional as they are cozy. Ahead, more on the cloud shoe trend.
Flip Flops
Over the past few years, flip flops have regained popularity and seem to get reinvented each season. We've seen them evolve from heeled styles to platform versions, and now, puffy styles.
If you're looking for the perfect spring shoe, this is it.
I love this take on the trend with puffy straps and a subtle heel.
Shop the trend:
Sneakers
As I mentioned above, Yeezy 500 sneakers have been around for years but have been popping up everywhere on Instagram recently. I'll admit that these are sitting at the top of my shopping list right now.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has these styled to perfection.
Just add a pair of tube socks and sweatpants.
Shop the trend:
Slides
One of the most eye-catching shoe styles from the S/S 21 collections? Proenza Schouler's puffy Rondo slides that practically resemble actual clouds. The puffy quilted leather shoes are one of the most forward takes on a slipper—a style I can actually imagine dressing up and wearing out of the house.
To wear with a midriff-baring top and skirt look—one of my favorite micro-trends for spring.
Or you can opt for a cool, sculptural dress like this one.
Shop the trend:
Heels
Padded heels are a personal favorite take on cloud shoes, including the Gia Couture x Pernille Teisbaek sandals I have in my closet. The brand just released a new toe strap style that is bound to be everywhere for spring.
Here, I'm wearing my favorite puffy heels. I love that they instantly add an interesting detail to a simple look.
The perfect shoe to wear with jeans.
Shop the trend:
Boots
The pillow shoe trend started popping up at the end of last year with the release of Louis Vuitton's anke boots and will no doubt continue to be popular long into 2021.
These instantly make a sweatpants outfit look intentional.
These look like a dream to slip into.
Shop the trend:
Next, shop 25 cool fashion finds I’m obsessing over right now.
-
Keep This Between You and Me: I Just Found a $165 Alt for The Row's Viral and Sold-Out $1300 HeelsYou're welcome.
-
If You Want to Look Like a Chic Fashion Person, Wear This Shoe Trend With Cropped PantsSelena Gomez is on board.
-
This Unexpected Under-$50 Sandal Is Winning the Great Summer Flip-Flop DebateMorgan Stewart has made a case for them.
-
Yeah, You *Have* Been Wearing Athletic Shorts With the Wrong Shoes This Whole TimeHere's the *right* way.
-
I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My ClosetHere's to a chicer outfit rotation.
-
No One Will Question Your Trend-Forward Status If You Wear Denim Shorts With *These* ShoesTyla gets it.
-
I'm Booking an Emergency Mani-Pedi After Spotting These 5 Pretty Skirt-and-Sandal CombosSeen on Kylie Jenner and Alexa Chung.
-
Forget Wimbledon Whites—at Centre Court, *This* Was the Summer Shoe Color to Wear With DressesIt's not black either.
