Goodbye Heels and Sandals, Hello Sneakers
In 2025, fashion is finally saying goodbye to painful high heels and even sidelining sandals as the go-to summer shoe. For decades, women suffered through toe-pinching stilettos and blisters just to look stylish. But now, comfort is taking center stage. Sneakers, loafers, Crocs, and water shoes are leading the fashion charge, replacing not just heels but even sandals that once ruled warm-weather wardrobes. According to InStyle, this season marks a clear move toward close-toed sneakers— even in summer — signaling a major shift in style priorities.
Get Tinashe Mandirahwe, Retail Analyst at Retail Fundi’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Rihanna are at the forefront of this change. Lawrence is often seen rocking slim-fit Adidas sneakers, while Rihanna prefers her Puma Speedcats. Their preference for flats over heels has helped make comfort fashionable and mainstream.
This trend reflects a bigger cultural shift. A recent Monash University study found that Barbie dolls’ high-heel posture dropped from 100% in the 1960s to just 40% in the 2020s. This small change in a popular toy mirrors how society is moving away from beauty ideals that demand discomfort, toward practical, health-conscious choices.
Of course, brands are quick to jump on the bandwagon, offering everything from metallic sneakers to unique toe shoes. Some might say it’s just another fashion cycle, but this time it feels more meaningful. People — especially women — are reclaiming comfort, health, and style all at once.
This commentary is my own but draws on InStyle’s reporting and Monash University’s research.
— Tinashe Mandirahwe
