28 Best Shoe Brands to Shop for Next-Level Footwear
Carrie Bradshaw once said: “Sometimes it’s hard to walk in a single woman’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then – to make the walk a little more fun.” And even twenty years later, it still holds true—or at least that’s what I tell myself as I add yet another pair of Dr. Martens to my cart.
Ahead, you’ll find the coolest, trendiest shoe brands that make clicking “Checkout” all to easy. These companies supply the most fashion-forward, chic, and surprisingly affordable options. The only headache you’ll be facing now is deciding where to buy your next footwear splurge – because let’s be honest, you can never have too many shoes. So scroll away and add to cart.
Nike Air Force 1
Is it really a list of best shoe brands if Nike isn’t included? Tried and true, you’ll never go wrong with a pair of Nike Air Force 1s.
Platform Sandals
At Free People you will find anything and everything you need for back to school shopping — and that applies most especially to any shoes you might need. From bright hues and pastel colors, the options are endless.
Patent Leather Lace Up Boots
Do I really need to justify why Dr. Martens are on this list? That’s what I thought. You’ll be wearing these quality stompers for years and years and years.
Maxima Flare Vortex
It doesn’t matter what you’re shopping for — chunky loafers, cool running sneakers, a simple slide — Steve Madden has it, probably in ten different colors.
Mismatched Slides
PSA to all my sneaker heads out there! This place houses a TON of shoes, from your unique hard to find Jordans to your sleek and stylish street shoes.
Maysie Bone Flatform Loafers
For shoes, prom dresses, denim — anything, really — look no further than Lulus. The brand offers contemporary shoes at amazing prices so your shoe addiction is totally justified.
Kitten Mule
Sam Edelman defines laid-back luxury and timeless American style at decent price points. Any shoe you buy from this brand will be one you wear all the time, for sure.
Running Sneaker
Remember this shoe brand, because when I tell you they are a go-to for your next gym shoe purchase, I am not lying. Stylish and secure, these will make you’ll feel so chic, even in leggings.
Fall Floral Chucks
Why is Converse on our list of best shoe brands? Just take a look at every influencers’ IG feed and you’ll understand why. These babies are so versatile, they could nab the title for shoe of the century (imo, at least).
Black Leather cowgirl boot
La dolce vita in Italian means “the good life” or “the sweet life.” It’s about enjoying life’s pleasures and simple luxuries – like owning adorable footwear. This is one of my fave shoe brands, because they’re super comfy.
Snake Embossed Slides
Schutz offers fun, modern shoes that are on-trend and exceptionally cool. Although the price tag is a little heavier than other shoe brands on this list, if you shop their sale section, you can get shoes for Aldo prices.
Knotted Tie-Around Sandals – Yellow
Think of Charles & Keith as the Zara of accessories. Everything they sell is shockingly affordable, but looks so expensive.
Slip-On Chunky Boots
Storets is a great place to find trendy pieces at such affordable pricing, and loved by soooo many influencers on instagram. Their shoe section is no exception.
Classic Duck Boot
This brand has been in the business for years and just slipping your foot into one of their shoes, you will know exactly why. Sorel has saved my feet from the cold more than once, thanks to their comfy/cozy boots.
Streamline Sneaker
APL’s shoes are beloved by celebrities across the board, because of that cushy, cushy sole. Another plus, they’ve got super unique designs that make athletic shoes feel fun.
Quilted Pool Shoes
H&M is the ultimate destination for both basic and trendy shoe styles, appealing to all with their reasonable prices. And if you’re looking for something a little nicer, don’t worry – they also offer a selection of premium quality shoes for you to choose from.
Chain Heel Sandals
They are a little bit of a splurge but SO WORTH IIT! These shoes are something special and perfect for those occasions where you just want to standout and be recognized.
Leopard Print Court Sneaker
A classic brand putting twists on timeless styles. From cool-kid sneakers to sleek boots, Cole Haan is always worth a browse.
Western Ankle Boots
BA&SH is a great brand for clothes, bags, and shoes overall. When you go to the site, you won’t be able to find something you don’t want.
Gucci Sneakers
When it comes to a one-stop-shop, I always head to DSW. They house numerous brands, even huge hitters like Gucci and Coach.
Leather Platform Sneakers
Zara has high-quality shoes of all kinds for those classically low Zara prices. Their sneakers are my personal favorite, purely due to their affinity for really cool soles.
The Robin
Talk about chic shoes! From their leather crisscross sandals(living in mine during the summer) to their velvet loafers, their isn’t a shoe that makes your feet feel luxurious.
Patent Leather Platform Sandal
Just wait—I guarantee these platforms will be going viral on TikTok before summer is over. Larroude has a ton of super trendy, but unique shoes you won’t find anywhere else.
Surf Fin Heeled Sandal
Yes, this famous bikini brand has drifted into the shoe world and they are already killing the game. From the wave inspired heel to the fun colors, this brand rivals even the most well-known shoe brands.
Combat Ankle Boot
Aldo is a one-stop shop for all shoes that are on your “I NEED” list. From cute summer sandals to fall boots, they have you covered.
Faux Fur Slides
Step into some comfort (while also looking super trendy) with J/Slides. My favorite are the furry styles — they can be worn as slippers around the house or out and about for some statement making.
Sling-Back Flat
JustFab is a favorite due to their on-trend styles and crazy-low prices. Fabulous styles marked at even more fabulous prices.
Suede Bootie
Chinese Laundry carries a range of shoes from dressy heels to casual flats, all designed to meet the needs of women on the go.
Ann Wang is a fashion editor and stylist at Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping and Woman’s Day.