As most fashionistas already know, style trends tend to cycle in decades. So it’s no surprise that this year Y2K style is back in full force, including some familiar shoe styles. 

Y2K, an acronym for Year 2000, embraces the pop culture styles of the 90’s and early 2000’s. Think influential stars such as Brittney Spears and cult-classic movies like “Mean Girls,” which made low-rise jeans and juicy track suits the most sought-after styles. 

Included in these 2000s trends are footwear brands such as Crocs and Ugg, which made a surprising comeback in 2020-2021. 

The pandemic certainly had an impact on the popularity of Crocs’ polymer shoes, though not everyone can get behind wearing them outside of the house. On the other hand, who could be opposed to sporting the platform Ugg Tazz slippers that were sold out everywhere this past winter?

Looking ahead to summer months, shoes featuring lug soles, platforms, and oversized buckles will be finding their way into our closets. Designers such as Doc Martin, Ganni, and Sam Edelman are debuting their own versions of the coveted chunky sandal for summer. 

Birkenstock has made a statement in their latest collaborations with two different high-end fashion houses. Partnering with Manolo Blahnik worked to take the proclaimed “Jesus sandal” to a new high-fashion level. The bright pink velvet and crystal buckles from this line could definitely make a statement with any outfit.

The Proenza Schouler collaboration produced a more simplistically-designed sandal with contrast stitching and velcro. These crossovers are sure to be a hit this summer and add more dimension to the Birkenstock brand. 

If open-toe shoes aren’t your style, not to worry. 

Sneaker brands such as New Balance and Nike have a wide variety of fun new styles and colors that can work for any occasion. Gone are the days of New Balance being deemed that pinnacle of anti-fashion, the “dad shoe.” They are now releasing a variety of unique designs with color combinations that are sure to make people question if this is the New Balance we used to know. Favorites include the 327 and 574 styles.

Last but not least, the classic ballet flat - so popular in the 90s - is once again going to be a likely first choice. 

Not everyone’s feet are made for heels, so the flat is the perfect middle ground for a business casual look when commuting into the office. Say goodbye to the 9-to-5 office routine that used to put so many commuters on the streets with sneakers on their feet and high heels tucked into their shoulder bags. 

Look for square-toed flats, Mary Jane styles, and classic leather to update the ballet flat for this summer.