In January, Unlaced will celebrate its very first birthday. To honor such a momentous occasion, we’re looking back at our favorite moments from this inaugural year. This 2024 recap takes a look back at what was a flash in the pan, and what we expect to endure into 2025.
1. Robots Built Spray-On Shoes
On released a “LightSpray” technology designed to enhance athlete’s performances, using an ultra-light, one-piece upper assembled by a robotic arm.
2. Stuart Weitzman Debuted Men’s
Beloved women’s shoe designer Stuart Weitzman designed three lines for men, spanning moccasins, loafers, derbies, and oxfords. The collection hit retail in April.
3. Western Won The Day
Beyoncé sang country, Taylor Swift’s Eras tour continued to dominate, and Yellowstone teamed up with Ariat. Western boots completely dominated in 2024, and we predict the country movement to keep going strong.
4. Coquette Was the Standout Aesthetic
Bows, floral appliqués, and all things coquette stood out on the Spring 24 runways. The aesthetic continued to trend strong, with ballet flats a popular choice along with tulle and other flirty motifs.
5. Ratboot Went Viral
One of the most viral moments at February’s New York Fashion Week happened off of the runway when model Jenny Assaf wore custom “Ratboots” to sit front row at The Blonds. The boots were then auctioned off to benefit Mainely Rat Rescue.
6. The Mob Wife Aesthetic Fizzled
There was much ado about “mob wife” in early 2024, with predictions that this maximalist aesthetic would be the new coastal grandmother. The movement was trending on TikTok for a while before fizzling, but much of its components are still hot: leopard print, fur, and the color red.
7. Androgyny Steps Forward for Men
From Paris and Milan Fashion Week Men’s to New York Men’s Day, gender-bending footwear was front-and-center. Think: ballet flats, heels, and sleek loafers.
8. Crocs Dropped Clogs For Dogs
In October, Crocs broke the internet with its latest product category: Pet Crocs. Of course, styles can be personalized with exclusive dog Jibbitz charms.
9. Boat Shoes Are Trying To Come Back
We’ve been hearing a lot about a boat shoe resurgence, so much so that in March, trend forecaster and TikTok influencer Casey Lewis voiced her boat shoe conspiracy theory. Whether the styles will return to their early-aughts level dominance has yet to be seen, but the silhouette proliferated at trade shoes and on runways. In particular, Sperry dominated New York Fashion Week in September. We definitely expect to see more of the silhouette in 2025.
10. Ballet Flats Continue to Evolve
Ballet flats were a leading silhouette in 2024, and the style is continuing to evolve for future seasons. The latest take has a gorpy inspiration, like Ecco’s ballet-inspired trail runner. The shoe (which made the cover of our December issue) has been a favorite of fashion It girl and actress Chloë Sevigny, and we expect to see it continue in a big way in 2025.
