5 Must-Have Footwear for FW24
This season marks the triumphant return of figure-flattering silhouettes. With shoes becoming the defining statement piece that catches everyone’s eye, these five pieces of footwear will ensure you stay ahead of the curve
PUMA SPEEDCAT
Courtesy PUMA
Fashion is experiencing a dramatic pivot from oversized sneakers and loose-fitting denim to sleek straight-leg jeans paired with streamlined footwear. While Adidas Sambas have emerged as the frontrunner in this minimalist movement, many are now exploring alternatives like the Puma Speedcat, which elevates the slim sneaker trend with its silhouette and artful suede color blocking.
PRADA LACED LEATHER BOOTIES
Alongside the resurgence of straight-cut denim, hiking boots have stepped into the luxury spotlight. Drawing inspiration from the gorpcore movement, Prada’s interpretation elevates the utilitarian style with its signature enameled logo complementing the boot’s metallic hardware and fasteners. While these refined hikers may rarely venture beyond urban environments, their gradient leather—transitioning from rich umber to burnt sienna—creates an artful illusion of weathered outdoor adventures.
TABI BIANCHETTO DERBY SANDAL
Tabis, once a coveted insider symbol among those in the loop, has now entered the mainstream consciousness. However, you can recapture that exclusive “if you know, you know” appeal by opting for unconventional Tabi silhouettes in Bianchetto finish—a hand-painted technique that infuses character into classic ensembles. For those in tropical climates, the Tabi sandal variant offers a solution, transitioning from tailored pleated trousers to refined Bermuda shorts while maintaining an elevated approach to warm-weather dressing.
JUNYA WATANABE MAN x NEW BALANCE 1906L
First captivating audiences at Junya Watanabe’s Paris Fashion Week presentation in January, this groundbreaking hybrid has finally hit the shelves. The innovative design fuses two seemingly contradictory trends—traditional loafers and chunky dad sneakers—into an unexpectedly harmonious creation. Its monochromatic caging detail transforms the classic loafer silhouette by adding an avant-garde edge to conventional office attire. Demonstrating remarkable versatility, this footwear piece elevates both tailored black slacks and casual denim shorts and bridges the gap between formal and casual wear.
ADIDAS x WALES BONNER SAMBAS
While the Adidas Samba continues its reign as today’s most coveted sneaker, history suggests that even iconic footwear faces inevitable trend cycles—with collaborations being the notable exception. This latest iteration elevates the classic silhouette by incorporating luxury elements: premium croc-textured embossed cow leather and a woven leather tongue. The neutral palette ensures versatility, while the juxtaposition of wild textures creates a bold yet refined aesthetic that transcends seasonal trends.
