As we look ahead to next summer’s fashion collections, statement styles, and early 2000s throwbacks are shaping up to be big footwear trends. For retailers looking to stock the most in-demand women’s shoes, now is the time to invest in the key silhouettes and details that will drive sales when summer rolls around. This article will overview the top footwear items spotted on the catwalks that you’ll want to have on hand for your style-savvy customers.
Table of Contents:
1. Versatile day-to-night styles
2. The return of the Mary Jane
3. Western-inspired cowboy boots
4. Metallic finishes are back
5. The wedge heel for comfort
1. Versatile day-to-night styles
The over-the-knee boot is confirmed as one of the leading silhouettes for next season. We’re seeing these reworked with luxe materials like velvet and metallic leathers that complement the forecasted “day-to-night” dressing trend. Pointy-toed mules also remain relevant and updated with hardware details and ruched fabrics, adding fashion flair while still being easy to wear from desk to dinner.
When stocking for pre-summer ’24, look for boots and mules that can straddle both comfort and style. prioritize pointed-toes and kitten heels for all-day wearability meets dressed-up elevator angle. Rich neutrals like chocolate brown and warm metallics will have versatility for date nights or client meetings. And don’t shy away from texture: snakeskins, pearlescent patent, and velvets nod to the low-key luxury trend while still being festive enough for soirées.
2. The return of the Mary Jane
The Mary Jane is back in a big way for pre-summer ’24, offering a refreshed take on the ballet flat. This timeless silhouette gets an updated look through crossover straps with jewel and hardware details. We’re also spotting playful interpretations with vibrant velvets and sweet statement bows for a more youthful appeal.
When buying Mary Janes for next season, look for comfortable squared toes and walkable low kitten heels. Styles with strap embellishments, materials mixing, and poppy colors will lend themselves well to #OOTD social media moments. Offer a range of heel heights too for versatility — some Mary Janes spotted on the catwalks came lower to the ground while others had a slight lift. This provides options for casual daytime looks or going out.
3. Western-inspired cowboy boots
Cowboy boots emerge across the catwalks for pre-summer ‘24, from OTT party-ready styles to Y2K-inspired iterations. We’re seeing a range of updates including distressing, eclectic prints, and croc embossing. The variety lends itself well to festival wear while still fitting into the season’s nostalgia trend.
When investing in cowboy boots for your buy, seek out leather alternatives like raffia and opt for ethical, vegetarian materials when possible. Consider silhouette variations too — not only the typical mid-calf style cowboy boot, but also extended higher knee-heights. Platform soles and lug treads give added personality. And don’t shy away from color — try rich chocolate browns, cherry reds, or metallics like silver and gold for maximum styling versatility.
4. Metallic finishes are back
Metallic details are having a major moment for pre-summer ‘24 footwear. We’re spotting a range of silver and radiant red finishes across both casual and dressier silhouettes. From sneakers to mules, metallic adds a luxe feel while still nodding to Y2K nostalgia influences.
When buying metallic footwear, look for lead-free and environmentally-conscious materials. Options like metallic-coated canvas and vegan leathers have a lower impact while still achieving that liquid shine. Styles with wraparound straps, clear materials, and iridescent fabrics will capture light beautifully for maximum sheen potential in the summer sunlight.
And don’t forget to carry the metallic finish through with hardware components like buckles and grommets. The jewelry-inspired adornments play into the “jewelerification” macro trend forecasted through 2024. So have fun and go bold — oversized chain links, multi-buckles, and crystal strap closures all lend themselves well to the metallic statement shoe.
5. The wedge heel for comfort
The wedge heel is poised to be a hero silhouette for pre-summer ‘24 with its inherent comfort benefits. Both sandals and closed-toe pumps appeared on the catwalks featuring wedge shapes. We’re seeing fun updates like rainbow metallics, crisscross straps, and groovy perspex wedges that still feel fresh and current.
When buying wedges, focus on all-day support and lightweight materials. Layered cork wedges withstand heavy wear while still providing shock absorption and arch support. For strapped sandal versions, look for faux leathers and soft weaves that won’t rub. From a visual standpoint, on-trend wedge options include a flared silhouette, transparent vinyl, and pops of neon. The variety covers style bases from retro-cool to modern minimalism.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to next summer, versatile and nod-to-the-past women’s shoes styles are set to drive sales. The over-the-knee boot, Mary Jane, and cowboy boot all reflect the return of occasion dressing and #Y2K nostalgia, while still offering the comfort and support that remain retail staples. Details like metallic hardware and strapping add visual interest and personality.
When building your women’s footwear buy for pre-summer ’24, focus on crossover potential. Styles that can work for both day and night will get the most traction. Seek silhouettes that provide comfort yet still feel elevated and special. Place importance on conscious materials that uphold longevity and have a softer environmental impact.
By investing now in the key trends of statement boots, updated classics, Western ruggedness, and metallic shine, retailers can expect to see sales success when collections hit stores next summer. Stay ahead of the style curve and deliver the top women’s shoes that your customers will be clamoring for.
