The Surprising Spring Shoe Trend People in London, Paris and New York Are Already Wearing

It might still feel a while off, but if you pay close attention, you’ll notice that the first signs of spring are beginning to emerge.
Brighter skies are punctuating cloudy weeks, the frosty bite is abating and the promise of longer days is just around the corner. In preparation for my favourite season, I’ve started curating the outfits I’ll be relying on in the months ahead. As I’ve been gathering inspiration from my favourite influencers, I’ve realised I’m one shoe style short of my dream spring wardrobe. Amongst all the chic ensembles I’ve come across lately, there’s one standout footwear trend that keeps catching my eye: slingback loafers. Once an overlooked hybrid, these shoes are fast becoming a go-to choice amongst the fashion set.
They might not be the most obvious contender for a spring shoe, but I’ve come to appreciate just how versatile and stylish slingback loafers can be. Combining the polished appeal of a loafer with the breezy ease of a slingback, they strike the perfect balance between smart and playful. Their structured front ensures they pair effortlessly with tailored pieces, whilst the open-back detail lends a sense of lightness that makes them ideal for warm-weather dressing.
This emerging shoe trend is surprisingly easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe. Worn with a flowing skirt or dress, slingback loafers exude elegance, grounding feminine silhouettes with their refined polish. If trousers are more your style, simply swap out your usual loafers for a slingback version and pair with jeans or tailored trousers for a sleek and polished look.
Slowly becoming a key shoe style for spring, I think we'll be seeing a lot more of this emerging trend very soon.
Read on to discover our edit of the best slingback loafers.
SHOP SLINGBACK LOAFERS:
The chocolate-brown colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.

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.
-
My Mom Is in Her 50s and Asked Me for Fashion Advice—8 Chic Nordstrom Outfits I Put Together for Her Under $425
Outdated prints and "ugly" shoes included.
-
Step Aside, Butter Yellow, Burgundy, and Baby Pink—2026's It Color Has Just Arrived
Refreshingly good.
-
These Easy Outfit Formulas Make Even Fall's Most Polarizing Boot Trend Look Cool
See the inspiration inside.
-
Click Here for Proof That This Sophisticated Shoe Color Works With Both Jeans and Dresses
Versatile and chic.
-
This Is the Luxe Fall Shoe Trend Every Fashion Person Is Already Wearing on Repeat
Count these inspo pics as proof.
-
I'm Seeing This Quietly Chic Flat-Shoe Style Paired With Outfits Everywhere This Fall
There are endless ways to wear it.
-
The State of Style in 2026: Color, Prep, and the End of Quiet Luxury
Discover the global influences that are shaping modern fashion trends for 2025 and 2026.
-
Elegant Dressers Are Wearing This Once-Hated Shoe Trend Like It Was Never Out
The 2025 version of the style is so good.