Nothing Says "I’m Rich" Like This Spring Shoe Trend, But I've Found Pairs for Every Budget

Of all the flat-shoe trends we've seen recently—and trust me, there have been a lot—this is perhaps the one I least expected, even though I know it to be a classic. In a move that will appease quiet luxury fans, boat shoes are officially back for Spring 2025. Having crept into high-profile runway shows since Miu Miu's spring and summer 2024 collection, the humble shoe has also seen an uptick in online interest since last year, as noted by data analyst databutmakeitfashion.
The shoe trend may have previously been reserved for yacht dwellers, thus cementing its luxury status, but now it's making its way onto city streets at pace, whispering wealth with every step. Styled by the fashion set with cotton, linen and denim, the controversial shoe is gearing up to be one of spring and summer's most important footwear buys.
In a surprising styling showcase, Miu Miu's tan boat shoes were paired with leather skirts, draped trousers and micro-shorts throughout the show, attesting to the versatile nature of the rising shoe trend. Already an influencer favourite, the style set has taken to wearing them for casual outings or beach-side wanders.
A post shared by Angie Smith | Stylist & Consultant
A photo posted by on
With its boat-day connotations, the flat shoe has a distinctly warm-weather edge. A fuller-coverage alternative to strappy sandals or ballet flats for the hotter months, the boat shoe's silhouette isn't a far cry from the loafers we've been styling for many seasons now, so you might find them easier to wear than you imagined.
To shop the rising footwear trend that fashion people are backing for spring and summer 2025, read on to discover our edit of the best boat shoes to buy right now, whatever your budget.
SHOP THE BEST BOAT SHOES:

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
Your Ultimate Spring Shopping Spree: 54 Arrivals From COS, Ssense, Steve Madden, and More
All your favorites are here.
By Natalie Gray Herder
-
It's Spreading: Every Day, Another Chic L.A. Fashion Person Is Seen Wearing This Black Pants Trend With Ballet Flats
French girls also approve.
By Eliza Huber
-
If The Row, Khaite, and Toteme Feel Too Expensive, Here Are 33 Pieces to Try Instead
Bring on the luxe-looking outfits.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I Found It—the Chic Flat-Shoe Trend That Looks Just as Elegant as Heels
Finally!
By Natalie Munro
-
9 Top, Jeans, and Shoe Outfit Combos That Fashion People Will Be Wearing This Spring
I plan to re-create these ASAP.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
It's True—Fashion People Are Ditching Their White Sneakers For These More Elevated Shoe Trends
I'm following suit.
By Humaa Hussain
-
This Tasteful Shoe Trend Makes Black Skinny Pants Look So Classy
Phoebe Dynevor knows what's up.
By Erin Fitzpatrick
-
Every Major Shoe Trend That Will Take Over in Fall 2025
Here's what was big on the runways.
By Kristen Nichols
-
9 Classic Shoe Trends French Women Are Wearing This Spring
Versatile and chic.
By Judith Jones
-
Re: Your Ballet Flats—Here Are the Chicest Ways to Wear Them This Summer
Because we know you're wondering.
By Michelle Scanga