“What goes up must come down.” Sure, this popular phrase is true. But today, we’re talking about shoe trends that went up, came down, and then made a serious revival back to the top of the popularity charts for 2025.
Which shoes made the cut?
Let’s uncover the top five “retro” footwear faves that have been reinvented and brought back to the runways.
Kitten Heels
Kitten heels originally emerged in the 1950s, offering a more comfortable and modest heel solution—especially for younger women barely stepping foot into the high heels scene (literally). They were known for their dainty and cute approach and for being the perfect in-between for flats and heels.
Today, kitten heels are anything but subtle. While they undeniably retain their comfort thanks to the low heel, designers are playing with the aesthetic to offer all types of different looks and styles – including several that fit into the streetwear scene.
If you’re looking for a heel to rock this spring/summer without hurt feet at the end of the day, check out the exciting new wave of kitten heels hitting the scene in 2025.
Slingbacks
With a bare ankle and a pointed toe, it’s easy to see why the slingback gained immediate popularity and attention with its initial release in the 1940s. Instantly named an ode to femininity and allure, it swiftly found its way onto pin-up girls and countless women of history since, including Marilyn Monroe and Jackie Kennedy.
While the most iconic slingback is undeniably the two-toned number from Chanel in 1957, several designers have stepped forward to create groundbreaking slingbacks throughout the years – hello, crystal-embellished Begum pump from Amina Muaddi!
This year, be prepared to complete your streetwear ensemble with a pair of slingbacks. They’re coming in a variety of shapes, styles, and textures to suit your needs. Oh, and if you prefer the slingback sandal, don’t panic – this footwear is sprawled throughout the fashion realm, featuring all new looks and energy to keep you satisfied through the summer.
Samba Sneakers (Adidas)
If you’re someone who likes to kick the ball around, you might’ve been a fan of Samba sneakers from the get-go. But if you don’t consider yourself an athlete and simply love athleisure fashion, well, you’ve probably been caught wearing Sambas plenty of times.
Let’s face it – the adidas Samba sneaker hit the scene in the 1940s, originally as a top-notch shoe for playing soccer. However, the shoe quickly made headlines and was reinvented to fit into several types of sports – including skateboarding.
The hype didn’t stop there. Sambas eventually infiltrated the fashion community, and it left a mark that won’t soon be forgotten. Although the resurgence of the Sambas comes and goes, one thing remains the same: the effortlessly cool and chic vibes they produce.
Being the second best-selling sneakers from adidas, we don’t see Sambas losing their popularity anytime soon. Follow in the footsteps of Rihanna, Bella Hadid, A$AP Rocky, and other celebs, and start stylin’ your Sambas for spring/summer.
High Tops
If Samba sneakers aren’t quite your jam but you still wish to indulge in the athletic vibes, we have good news for you: high tops are back and they’re more popular than ever.
We can confidently say that high tops have become an “it” shoe for spring and summer of 2025, especially if you’re looking to exquisitely blend comfort, style, and coolness.
High tops have been around since 1892 – yes, you read that correctly. Originally a well-constructed shoe built for the working man, the high top quickly found other avenues to make its mark – especially in the sports realm, with the most notable introduction being in 1985 when “Air Jordans” hit the scene.
Like many other popular types of shoes, high tops began to break ground everywhere. Whether you considered yourself a “punk” in the 90s or enjoyed street styles in the 80s, you were wearing high tops. Needless to say, the same infatuation for high tops is back and stronger than ever – so get your hands on a pair ASAP, whether you opt for the retro picks or something new and exciting.
Mary Janes
It’s easy to combine the words “Mary Janes” with “aww.” To be honest, Mary Janes began (and still is) some of the cutest shoes known to humankind. It doesn’t help that one of the most adorable starlets ever, Shirley Temple, wore them in her movie “Baby Takes a Bow.”
While you can still get your hands on a cutesy pair of Mary Janes, “sweet” and “innocent” aren’t the only options.
The emergence of Mary Janes as rebellious, woman-friendly footwear started with Twiggy in the 60s and became even more edgy throughout the 90s punk movement. Today, you can find a wealth of Mary Janes that are streetwear-forward, featuring all types of platform heights, buckles of all girths, and unexpected color combinations.
Step Into Spring With Revived Footwear Styles!
There’s no denying it – we’re more than thrilled about these footwear comebacks and can’t wait to showcase them all through spring. They’re not only fashion-forward and avant-garde but can be utilized in all types of fashion get-ups, including streetwear aesthetics. Which comeback are you most excited about?
