Does the capsule wardrobe principle work in shoes? Absolutely. Capsule does not mean limitation, but selection: careful editing of one's own collection instead of its chaotic expansion. In this sense, the capsule approach goes beyond categories and often means awareness, choice and constant rethinking of one's own style. And although shoes are often called just a detail, they often shape the character of the entire look. That's why we suggest finding out what shoes are considered basic in 2026.
Photo: Dana Hourani
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Derby
The derby is back, in a more refined, softer form. It's a nod to the aesthetic of modern preppy, while also responding to the excess of trends that are often born on social media. Michael Ryder's white leather lace-up derby for Celine is now worn everywhere from the runway to the street style scene. It combines practicality with delicate elegance. For a more classic feel, look to Repetto's ballet-inspired styles, long loved by French style icons like Jane Birkin.
Celine spring-summer 2026
Repetto Paris
Boats
Heels have traditionally been the underdogs in terms of comfort, but the new silhouettes are changing the rules of the game. Softer, rounder, they hug the foot like a second skin and have an almost sculptural look. Chanel's models, which dominate social media feeds, are equally easy to combine with any wardrobe. The pointed toe gives way to flowing shapes – this is visible in the collections of Khaite, Toteme and Phoebe Philo, where the shoes look like a work of art. The exception is Saint Laurent, which continues to insist on the most pointed, and therefore attractive, silhouette.
Totem
Ballet flats
The status of ballet flats as a timeless classic remains unchanged. If you want to update your silhouette in the spirit of 2026, you should pay attention to the options with a small kitten heel. Brands St. Agni and Aeyde offer models that organically fit into both the office wardrobe and will be worthy companions on trips.
St. Agni Studio
Stocking boots
And finally, the unexpected hero of the season: leather stocking boots. Perhaps not the most obvious choice for warm weather, but quite appropriate in the right context – in the evenings, in air-conditioned spaces or as a conscious stylistic gesture. The material is crucial here: soft leather, satin or mesh. The Stella model from The Row, as well as variations from Dries Van Noten, Acne Studios and Dear Frances, demonstrate this idea of “second skin”. Combined with natural fabrics – linen or cotton – they create an unexpectedly harmonious contrast.
Colored shoes
It is worth clarifying: a minimalist shoe wardrobe does not mean giving up color or decor. It is about something else – about an honest dialogue with one's own style and the ability to distinguish what is truly necessary from what is random. This is not about the aesthetics of minimalism as such, but about mindfulness as a principle. And that is why there is still room for maximalism in the spring-summer 2026 shoe capsule. After all, no conversation about shoes would be complete without mentioning Jonathan Anderson and his interpretation of the Dior archives: the Aurore heeled sandals are already gaining the status of a collector's item.
Dior spring-summer 2026
Based on materials from voguearabia.com