Spring and summer are finally here, and with them comes the same old question. Which shoes should you actually wear?
Whether you're dashing to catch the tube, heading to a brunch with friends, or packing for a weekend getaway, your footwear has to be both stylish and comfortable. After all, nobody wants sore feet before they even make it through the morning commute.
This season, shoes are taking a practical turn. Comfort is king, but that doesn't mean compromising on style. Low heels, flats, woven sandals, and retro trainers are dominating runways and high-street collections.
To help you navigate the trends, here's a guide to the must-have shoes of the season and how to wear them.
1. Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are back in a big way, and this time they're more versatile than ever. Imagine rushing to a morning meeting in your favourite tailored trousers, coffee in hand, and sliding into flats that feel like they were made for your feet. That's exactly why they're so popular this season.
These flats work with almost everything. Skinny or wide-leg jeans, midi skirts, or summer dresses — you name it. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and polish, so you don't have to swap into heels halfway through the day. The 2026 updates include mesh fabrics, square toes, delicate straps, and padded soles for extra comfort.
For styling, you can pair these flats with wide-leg trousers and a crisp shirt for the office, or wear them with a floaty summer dress and a straw bag for weekend errands. Pastel shades add a playful touch to otherwise neutral outfits, making them ideal for brunch with friends or a casual day out in the city.
Must-Have Picks
- Zara — Shiny Mesh Ballet Flats (£49.99)
- Mango — Leather Ballerina With Strap and Buckle (£55.99)
- COS — Minimal Leather Ballet Flats (£95)
2. Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are the best way to get a little lift this season without hurting your feet after an hour. They usually sit between 3 and 5 centimetres, which is perfect to make you feel dressed up but still comfortable. Picture wearing them for a day out shopping or strolling along the South Bank. Your feet will thank you.
Kitten heels reflect a shift towards practical fashion. They are soft enough for everyday wear, yet they also look classy for evening events.
The updated versions feature sturdier bases and cushioned soles. So even if you're walking across cobbled streets or hopping between cafés, you won't feel the strain.
They're surprisingly versatile, too. Wear pointed kitten heels with straight-leg trousers and a blazer to achieve a polished office look. Swap the trousers for a midi skirt or summer dress, and you've got a chic evening outfit.
Must-Have Picks
- H&M — Slingback Court Shoes (£22.99)
- New Look — Wide Fit Pink Faux Suede Kitten Heel Shoes (£29.99)
- Clarks — Scarlyt Piper Merlot (£60)
3. Woven Sandals
Nothing says summer quite like woven sandals. Walking along the Thames? Exploring a coastal town? Braided leather, raffia, and crochet-style sandals are ideal for keeping your feet cool and stylish.
These shoes bring texture to your outfit and a relaxed, handmade feel. Woven sandals complement linen trousers, cotton dresses, and other light fabrics perfectly.
A tan woven slide pairs beautifully with a white shirt dress for running errands or grabbing a coffee, while a darker woven mule can elevate tailored shorts for a casual evening drink. Even woven loafers are making a comeback, providing a refined yet breezy option for the office.
Must-Have Picks
- Next — White Leather Woven Sandals (£21-£28)
- River Island — Gold Woven Buckle Flatform Sandals (£39)
- Marks & Spencer — Leather Woven Flat Slingback Sandals (£40)
4. Retro Trainers
Trainers aren't going anywhere, but this season's version leans heavily on retro inspiration. Imagine slipping on lightweight, vintage-style sneakers for a weekend market trip or a picnic in the park. They're comfortable, stylish, and make any casual outfit look put together.
Streamlined retro trainers, often in suede with vintage-inspired colourways, dominate spring and summer seasons. They're perfect for everyday wear, whether you're pairing them with jeans and a blazer for a casual office day or with a midi dress and T-shirt for running errands. This versatility makes them an essential addition to your wardrobe.
Must-Have Picks
- Zara — Trainers (£27.99)
- Mango — Leather Mixed Sneakers (£49.99)
- COS — Minimal Leather Trainers (£95)
Choosing Shoes That Suit You
Neutral tones are the most prevalent, but soft pastels and metallic accents are used from time to time to add variety. Common choices include leather, suede, woven textures, and breathable fabrics that put comfort first without sacrificing style.
The golden rule? Versatility. Nude ballet flats, for example, work as seamlessly on a day out as they do for a casual dinner. Retro trainers can pair with jeans, shorts, or summer dresses that makes them a reliable go-to. Kitten heels and woven sandals are similarly adaptable, which offer options for office, casual, or evening outfits.
High-street prices are accessible, often ranging from £50-£120. Designer versions exist too, with some statement shoes priced up to £5,000. But keep in mind that it's entirely possible to embrace these trends without splurging.
Why Comfort Rules in 2026
All these trends share a key feature, and that's comfort. For years, fashion favoured dramatic shoes that looked amazing but were almost impossible to wear all day. Now, shoppers want shoes that fit their lives.
Lifestyle changes are part of the reason. More walking in cities, hybrid work schedules, and a focus on practical fashion mean shoes need to be both stylish and wearable. People want footwear that can keep up with errands, weekend trips, and even spontaneous plans without making their feet hurt.
Low heels, flats, and trainers are no longer secondary footwear. They're the stars of the season. Whether you're commuting, meeting friends, or packing for a holiday, these shoes are ready to step into your life and your wardrobe. With cushioned soles, breathable materials, and supportive designs, these shoes prove that style doesn't have to come at the expense of comfort.
In 2026, fashion finally recognises that the best shoes are the ones you can actually live in. In other words, comfort has become the ultimate luxury — and designers are proving you don't have to compromise on style to get it.
