From neon to overalls, ’90s-inspired fashion has been back in a major way for several seasons now, and shoes are no exception to this retro wave. If you’re ready to upgrade your summer wardrobe with a few new pairs of Asics shoes and flirty Manolos, these trendy styles will look fresh even as they draw from the days of landline phones and AOL Instant Messenger.
Chunky-Heeled Loafers
Those who were in high school or college in the ’90s paired these pairs with plaid kilts, flared jeans and just about everything else. The new version of this menswear classic gets a feminine edge from the chunky, clunky square heels. Loafers showed up on the summer runways of Prada, Lanvin and Louis Vuitton. Gold buckles, chains and embellishments keep this style completely current.
Glam Square-Toed Sandals
Sandals were runway-ready back in the ’90s, and this sleek, chic look has returned for summer 2020. Look for lots of straps, sky-high stilettos and sharp square toes. Manolo Blahnik and Bottega Veneta showed this look in their most recent collections.
Your new favorite way to wear a square toe? In a classic thong flip-flop version with a teeny, tiny kitten heel. Bonus ’90s points if the straps feature rhinestone or pyramid studs.
Thick Platform Sandals
Earlier this year, Steve Madden brought back their iconic slide sandal. Every true ’90s girl wore that tall black platform with thick, stretchy elastic that cradled the foot, whether you had your own pair or borrowed your roommate’s. We’ve also seen 2020 versions of this Sassy style from Zara and Jeffrey Campbell.
Not a fan of the slide? Dr Martens released an updated version of the gladiator sandal with a healthy platform, while Vagabond takes the fisherman sandal to new levels with a bulky, flat heel.
Fun, Funky Sneakers
Retro sneakers for women firmly support the move of athletic wear into mainstream fashion. Bring back the days of chunky white shoes with pops of neon bright by shopping summer 2020 styles from Stella McCartney or go bold with the monochrome black version from Jeffrey Campbell. Update your classic sneakers by pairing them with a denim mini or slip dress, or go full retro with your favorite baggy jeans. Grab a pair of New Balance or Reebok kicks in your favorite bright hue combo. Platforms for sneakers are also in, like the new model of classic Vans in white leather with a boosted sole.
Combat Boots
Although combat boots are arguably a mainstay, Dr Martens are associated closely with ’90s grunge and punk fashion. Today, the durable English shoes have been popping up ad nauseum in Insta stories and Pinterest searches, so don’t wait to snag a pair (or check your mom’s attic for your old ones!). To make combat boots summer-appropriate, pair them with a flirty floral dress to take advantage of the fledgling prairie chic trend.
Mary Janes
Whether you prefer a flat or a platform, Mary Jane shoes (characterized by a simple rounded toe and strap across the ankle) have gone from too-young to cool and unexpected in summer 2020. These versatile shoes look cute with anything from a minidress to simple black pants.You knew those Birkenstock sandals would never go out of style. Now go back to the future with these totally awesome ’90s shoe trends.
Categories: Design
