7 Shoe Trends Worth Investing In For 2021

We're looking forward to many things in the New Year, but first and foremost is footwear. Hopefully, 2021 will be the year that our pretty pumps have reason to step back outside the house (not that they'll be our first choice.) After nearly a year of spending more time at home, our heels have taken a backseat to more practical styles, as we've re-prioritised and now put comfort first. Of course, style need not be sacrificed. For 2021, think cozy slippers, sturdy boots, and maybe a platform or two. Read on to discover the pairs you'll be living in this year.

1. Slippers Worth Wearing Outside the House

Though we might be starting off the year sitting pretty at home, we believe our feet deserve to look just as good. Slippers are currently having their biggest moment to date. So much so that we'll be wearing our favorite pairs straight out of the house.

Inspiration from Ralph & Russo

2. Casa Clara Frankie Slipper

Casa Clara

This is truly a great find if you are looking to re-create our Ralph & Russo inspiration look for less. A pop of colour is always a good idea.

3. Anacletus Suede and Shearling Slide

Manolo Blahnik

When you think of Manolos, you might imagine more glitz and glamour than this slide. Think of it this way instead: The brand has finally brought its expertise to cozy home essentials. Nothing feels better than slipping your feet into a pair of soft shearling slides at the end—or start—of a long day. 

4. The Horse Girl Is All Grown Up

These riding boots walked straight off the Prada runway and into our hearts. We love seeing the equestrian style make its way to high fashion. Straight from Princess Diana's wardrobe and into yours.

Inspiration from Prada

5. Leather Knee-High Boots

Chloé

Simply classic, Chloé is known for its equestrian heritage, so you'll be sure to hit the mark in the brand's riding boots. Plus, these are an instant classic you'll still want to wear come summer.

6. York Knee-High Boot

Khaite

This shoe gives the elegance of an equestrian boot some modern edge. And the delicate laces are simply exquisite, making it the standout style you didn't know you needed.

7. Minimalist Sandals for Walking the Extra Mile

The classic thong sandal has finally been elevated to be a fit for the fashion crowd. Once considered a fashion faux pas, thongs now flaunt the chicest heels, texture, and embellishments. Not to mention they are ideal for showing off a fresh pedicure.

Inspiration from Acne Studios

8. Black Ivy 65 Logo Thong Sandal

Alexander Wang

This highly coveted sandal is still in stock—but not for long. A match for every item in your wardrobe, it's more than worth its price tag.

9. BV Spiral Thong Sandals

Bottega Veneta

A unique take on the thong sandal comes straight off the Bottega Veneta runway. The spiral straps will elegantly embrace your ankles for the ultimate lengthening effect. 

10. Jojo Embellished Suede Thong Sandal

Alexandre Vauthier

We've been loving neon brights lately, so seeing the bold hue collide with a thong sandal is a real treat. With crystal embellishments that shine bright, your new pedicure has never looked this good.

11. Schoolgirl Strut

Nothing looks more put together than preppy-inspired style. So when Gucci told us to incorporate Mary Janes into our wardrobes with its recent runway show, we had to comply. The best part? Adding your favorite pair of socks never looked chicer.

Inspiration from Gucci

12. Mary Jane 40 Leather Loafers

Gucci

Essentially replacing all loafers in the New Year: these leather cuties. Perfectly pair them with feminine tailoring and you might just get cast for the reboot of Gossip Girl.

13. Pointed Kitten-Heel Pump

Francesco Russo

If you're looking to take Mary Janes out of their comfort zone, try this pump-meets-MJ style. Perfect for the office or date night, this sweet heel will have your friends green with envy.

14. Lug Sole Mary Jane

Proenza Schouler

You'll soon learn how much love we have for the lug sole, so seeing it combined with the classic Mary Jane style means this is the shoe that has everything we're looking for in the New Year.

15. The Return of the Wild West

If you're looking for the perfect aesthetic that meets casual glam, Western style is it. Whether your country style is Little House on the Prairie or Indiana Jones, these are the boots that can truly fit into any wardrobe. Find the best of the West below.

Inspiration from Isabel Marant

16. Leesta Boot

Isabel Marant

Isabel Marant's recent runway collections have been the source of our devotion to dressing for the Western frontier. The standout from the runway has to be the unique assortment of cowboy boots. They feel bespoke and will never leave your feet.

17. Toga Pulla Tall Buckled Boot

Toga Pulla

If you're looking for a classic take on the perfect cowboy boot, look no further. With extraordinary details like Western-style carved buckles and flame-inspired stitching, this boot is a must-have.

18. Lukas Western Suede Boots

Saint Laurent

Nothing feels more Western than suede. Saint Laurent takes a walk on the wild side with these iconic boots. Style them with your favourite denim—no matter what time of the year it is—for a look that's instantly chic.

19. Off the Chain

We've become increasingly familiar with chunky gold jewelry this year, and it's finally made its way onto our favorite pairs of shoes. Whether it's as delicate as a beloved pendant or as loud as a Cuban link, chain-link embellishments are the perfect way to elevate a pair of heels.

Images from Off-White

20. Hendon Sandal

Amina Muaddi

Amina Muaddi is the breakout designer you need to know this year. We're stocking up on all her pretty and perfect heels for when we can dance again. As an expert in pumps and sandals, she truly knows best, so it's no surprise that she has added delicate chain detailing to her shoes. 

21. Chain-Embellished Leather Backless Loafer

Givenchy

Our loafers get a lot of wear, as they give any look a timeless feel. If you're like us, why not update your over-worn pair of loafers with Givenchy's take on the classic that has a bold, gold twist?

22. Platform Shoe

Stella McCartney

Platforms are back, and we wouldn't trust anyone other than Stella McCartney to design our next pair. Perfect for maximum height and comfort at once, this shoe features a gold chain that is simply the icing on the cake.

23. These Boots Are Made for Hiking

Last but certainly not least: the lug sole. Surely you are familiar with the rubber grip—if you've scrolled through your Instagram feed in recent months, it goes without saying that no one can get enough of them. And for good reason: Nothing is as comfortable and chic at the same time.

24. Sporty Elegance Combat Boot

Dorothee Schumacher

Sporty and chic, this lug-sole boot is perfect for walking everywhere. If you haven't yet found the winter boots that will be attached to your feet this cold-weather season, then look no further. 

25. Shearling and Rubber-Trimmed Leather Ankle Boot

Chloé

Whether you're planning a big hike or just kicking it après-ski this winter, we got you. This boot is the perfect partner to all your sporty outdoor adventures. Plus, it adds just the right amount of luxury.

26. Python-Print Beatles Platform Boot

Paris Texas

Feet are in good hands with the designers of Paris Texas. Lean in to your animal instincts with this python-embossed take on the lug-sole trend. Bonus: The extra height comes without the pain. 

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.