What will Spring ’18 footwear look like?
In a new report, trend forecasting firm Fashion Snoops, in partnership with UBM Fashion, reveals the top stories for women’s footwear for next spring, outlining an eclectic and exciting season full of color, trims and new shapes. Here are some of the highlights.
Individualist
Fueled by creativity, art and activism, this trend makes a bold (and personal) statement by pairing unlikely colors and materials. Here, satin, velvet, smooth leather, metallic lame and colored python co-mingle with plumes of feathers, shimmery palettes, ombre effects and baubles. Key components include sculpted heels, circle buckles and mixed media straps. Flat mules, ankle wrap pumps, kitten heel slingbacks and ankle strap pumps will be important.
Key colors: pale pink, silvery gray, orange, baby blue, lime green and royal purple.
Alter Ego
Powered by 80s nostalgia and bursts of bright color, this trend keys into personal style quirks. Painted denim, satin, metallic vinyl, rubberized finishes and sequins play into the theme’s party-like vibe. Shoes are enhanced with crystal embellishments, appliques, unexpected slivers of neon and hardware like studs and charms. Ankle wrap sandals, mules, new takes on loafers, stocking boots and sneakers are key.
Key colors: hot pink, purple, yellow, olive, lavender, mint, red and orange.
Sensory
The influence of technology is seen in this trend’s use of performance fabrics, including uppers made with neoprene, mesh nylon, ripstop nylon, knit and rubberized finishes. Back zips, iridescent piping, chunky athletic soles, PVC trims and color blocking add visual interest to clean silhouettes like flatform sandals, sneaker boots and ankle strap sandals.
Key colors: hot pink, mint, lime green, blue, red, purple and silver.
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Chill
This trend redefines “coziness” for summer with ultra-girly materials, playful trims and sunset colors. Materials like breathable knit, ribbed knit, velvet and satin bring a loungewear element to the look, while iridescent textiles and embellishments are paired with plush braided soles, ribbon laces and ankle wraps. Slip-on sneakers, slides, mules, slippers and sock boots enhances this trend’s laid-back vibe.
Key colors: lavender, lilac, sky blue, apricot, white, pink and gray.
Neuetradition
Deconstructed silhouettes and classic materials like seamed leather, heathered canvas and smooth suede make up this modern, gender-playing trend. Expect to see man-tailored silhouettes like heeled oxfords sit alongside shoeties, ankle boots, slide sandals and cross strap pumps. Pull tabs, braided seams, cutout ankle straps, pieced heels, square toes and brass and paracord toggles add elements of interest.
Key colors: millennial pink, periwinkle, dark gray, ecru, white and black.
Mainland
Natural materials and handcrafted elements make this trend a go-to for neutral looks. Key materials include natural leather, linen, weighted canvas, smooth suede and woven leather and straw. Details play a crucial role, with designs incorporating artisan folds, needlepoint embroidery, fringe and floral laser cut. Look for flat mules, clogs, moccasins and platform sandals to make a return.
Key colors: moss green, millennial pink, blush, ecru, tan, brown, white and black.
Quest
This season’s bohemian story, Quest creates wanderlust feeling with designs that speak to a nomadic, gypsy-like woman. Leather—be it woven, worn or natural—is essential to this traveler’s story as well as suede, woven cord and sheer silk. Trims are inspired by collected treasures, including tassels, gold charms, fringe and pom-poms. Silhouettes span flat mules and slides to T-strap sandals and voluminous wedges.
Key colors: shades of brown, apricot, military green, cranberry, golden yellow and lilac.
Electric Beats
This trend combines African subculture influences with youthful pops of eccentricity and color. Materials span smooth leather and suede, to woven cord, woven leather and printed cotton. Layered raffia, tassels, decorative whip-stitching and colored grommets add dashes of whimsy. Flatform slides, mules, strappy sandals and sneakers are important signatures.
Key colors: cherry red, golden yellow, orange, sky blue, fuchsia, tan and berry.