The past few years have shown us a wide range of trends when it comes to shoes. In sneakers, it’s been a cycle of hype drops, nostalgia-driven resales and the rise of bold, oversized silhouettes that defined the maximalist moment. Beyond trainers, last year was defined by unlined suede styles and Venetian loafers, offering a softer, slipper-like take on a classic shape.
However, over the past few months, the mood feels calmer and more intentional. Brands are now leaning toward clarifying these trends in sharper designs that feel more timeless. Heading into 2026, that trend is expected to continue. Here are the models shaping the year so far.
Formal footwear with a twist
One clear take away from Milan’s Autumn 2026 menswear shows was the return of formalwear, with the tailored topcoat back in focus. But footwear was just as important, but not just formal footwear, but alternatives to the traditional Oxford.
Loafers are set to be a key style for 2026. At Ralph Lauren Purple Label, they appeared in bowed patent versions styled with tuxedos, as well as tasselled cognac suede worn beneath tailored topcoats. Etro leaned into heavier soles, while Paul Smith introduced distressed leather and subtle buckle details. Giorgio Armani offered more unexpected interpretations, including loafers featuring an oversized Velcro strap
Derby shoes are set to be a key men’s footwear trend in 2026. What appeared on the Fall runways in Milan is translating into a wider shift toward updated classics. Prada presented derby styles with colorful laces, Brunello Cucinelli leaned into distressed suede, and Giorgio Armani showed chunkier versions with a more relaxed feel. Together, they point to a return of the derby as a staple for the year ahead.
Sports shoes
The buzz around the Winter Olympics and the upcoming World Cup has filtered into footwear, with brands leaning into sport and outdoor references. The shift, however, is less about technical performance and more about comfort and lifestyle.
The Pharrell Williams x Adidas Adistar Jellyfish, built on the Adistar Cushion platform, is one example, sporty in design, but wearable beyond the track. At the same time, brands are embracing outdoor-inspired boots. Ralph Lauren showed suede hiking styles with bright laces, while Loro Piana also leaned into the hiking silhouette. These aren’t strictly performance boots, but they bring a refined, outdoors-inspired edge to city dressing.
Chelsea boots are also set for a strong year. Paul Smith recently showed polished leather versions with slightly sharper toes, styled with tailored suits. Other brands leaning into this trend is Brunello Cucinelli, with velvety suede and smooth black leather pairs worn with straight-leg denim. The style also appeared in Saul Nash’s fall collection through a collaboration with Manolo Blahnik, confirming the Chelsea boot’s return as a key staple for 2026.
Ballet Trainers
If last year leaned into boxing boots and motocore, 2026 introduces a softer counterpoint. Ballet trainers, sometimes dubbed the “sneakerina,” are gaining momentum. Made from flexible materials but finished with practical rubber soles, they offer a lightweight alternative to bulkier sneakers.
Luxury brands such as Miu Miu, Loewe and Louis Vuitton are embracing the silhouette, while sportswear names like Adidas, Puma and Onitsuka Tiger are adapting it with performance features. Slim and understated, it represents the quieter shift happening across men’s footwear this year.
