The spring/summer 2025 footwear scene is brimming with exciting new trends. From ballerinas and Mary Janes to transparent styles, the runway is abuzz with classic silhouettes. But amongst these familiar favorites, a fresh trend is emerging, captivating the attention of fashion enthusiasts and designers alike: the corset-inspired lace-up shoe.
This captivating design, with its laces threaded through eyelets along the entire instep and tied at the ankle, creates a structured and elegant finish. It’s a trend that’s been embraced by some of fashion’s most influential names, including Chloé, Simone Rocha, and Dries Van Noten. When these brands converge on a single accessory, it’s a sure sign of its rising popularity.
Simone Rocha’s interpretation comes in the form of glittering flat ballerinas, available in shades like black and red, reminiscent of the whimsical world of The Wizard of Oz. Meanwhile, Dries Van Noten’s first collection without its founder features two distinctive mules with angular wedge heels and eye-catching finishes, including snake print.
Chloé has been a leading champion of the corset shoe trend, showcasing a version with a pacifier heel and a plunging neckline in shades of white, nude, and black. These shoes were paired with tailored polo trousers or delicate bloomers, creating a striking contrast between modern and vintage elements.
With its pointed-toe design, Dries Van Noten’s corset shoes offer a summery twist on the lace-up ankle boots that were popular a few years ago. Like their predecessors, these boots featured laces extending along the entire foot, creating a striking effect reminiscent of classic ice skates.
However, Chloé’s interpretation takes the trend a step further, drawing a distinct connection to the corset. The lingerie-inspired elements of the collection underscore the corset-like structure of these shoes, making them a perfect metaphor for this new footwear direction. Get ready to embrace the allure of corset shoes as they become a defining accessory of the upcoming season.
