These Are The Anti-Flat Shoe Trends To Know For Winter 2025

Now, I have nothing against flat shoes as a whole; however, there’s no getting away from the fact that, when I want to feel like my most confident self, heels are what I turn to. Yes, they often take a little more thought when it comes to styling than, say, a ballet flat or a loafer, and on occasion, they may be deemed impractical — read last week, when I thought I could get through a busy day of errands in a pair of stiletto boots — yet I will stand by the idea, that there’s nothing like slipping your feet into a great pair of heels, especially if you want your outfit to feel put-together and polished.

And so, when it came to updating my wardrobe for the new season, of course, the best anti-flat shoe trends were my first port of call. Thankfully, stiletto boots aren’t the only option (although a few more styles may have already made their way into my basket — what can I say, when it comes to shoes, I’m a masochist). Instead, winter 2025, is set to see a whole host of styles enter our wardrobes, from animal print slingbacks to controversial peep-toe mules.

So, whether you’re looking for a new pair of heels for party season, or, like me, you simply like to forgo flats in favour of a little added lift, these are the five trends to have on your radar.

Anti-Flat Shoe Trends to Have on Your Radar for Winter 2025:

1. Brown Suede Ankle Boots

Style Notes: While any heeled boots will serve you well this autumn-winter, for a trend-led take, suede is the chicest way to go. These soft-touch styles look particularly great in cosy brown tones, like rich chocolate or warm tan, offering a boho feel that plays into the shades of the season.

Shop the Trend:

Dune

Odelle Leather Kitten Heel Ankle Boots

This heel height is perfect for busy days.

Aeyde

Sofie Suede Heeled Ankle Boots

This lighter tone is so chic.

River Island

Brown Suede Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Boots

I've treated myself to this pair.

Bobbies

Emilie Brown Suede Boots

The curved heel elevates these ankle boots.

Maje

Zipped suede ankle boots

I love how the zip adds detail to these boots.

2. Peep-toe Heels

Style Notes: Millennials, brace yourselves, because the peep-toe heel is officially back. Rather than taking inspiration from our favourite 00s styles, however, this season the peep-toe heel has taken on a more sleek, minimalist feel. Think peep-toe mules and 80s-inspired wedges with just a hint of toe on show. Still, I’d recommend booking your winter pedicures ASAP to ensure you’re ready for any impromptu events that may arise.

Shop the Trend:

Jimmy Choo

Brigitte Mule 100

Find me a better festive shoe.

Jude

Date 105 peep-toe leather mules

Jude's Date mules have been seen on celebs including Tracee Ellis Ross and Chloé Sevigny.

Amina Muaddi

Julianne Peep-Toe Leather Pumps

It's not only mules that are going peep-toe.

Russell & Bromley

Kingsley Peep-Toe Stiletto

These and a little black dress.

Khaite

Cloak 75 Leather Peep-toe Wedge Mules

These have a vintage look to them.

3. Knee-High Sock Boots

Style Notes: Another boot trend to try, however, unlike the suede styles we saw earlier, these are perfect for rainy days. Sitting snug on the leg, right up to (and sometimes over) the knee, these sock-style boots offer serious coverage as well as creating a sleek silhouette underneath dresses and skirts. Opt for a leather finish for a high-end look or try stretchy neoprene for added comfort.

Shop the Trend:

Dries Van Noten

Glove 105 Leather Ankle Boots

Don't stick to basic black, this berry tone looks so expensive.

Massimo Dutti

Leather Boots With Stretch Leg

If you don't want too much height, these are perfect.

Whistles

Black Hera Stretch Suede Boot

These will mould to your shape.

The Fold

Laurito Boots 65

Pair these with a cream knit dress.

ASOS DESIGN

Coral Round Toe Sock Knee Boots

A great faux leather option.

4. Wedge Courts

Style Notes: Alongside peep-toe heels and sock boots, it seems that Winter 2025 is prepared to throw as many controversial shoe trends at us as possible — case in point, the return of the wedge. Much like the latter styles, however, this season wedges are sleek, simple and sophisticated in their appearance, with slingback and court heels styles leading the way in an array of shades and prints, including my personal favourite, ice white.