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Whether pleated, flounced, high-waisted, low-waisted, or micro-length, we can’t skirt around the fact that this year belongs to the mini. During the mini skirt’s original heyday in the early 2000s, sharply pointed pumps in saturated colors (think Regina George in Mean Girls) were one of the only acceptable styles. Now, however, a vast array of aesthetics like balletcore, dark academia, and normcore have ended the shortage of footwear that you can mix with a mini skirt.
Preppy penny loafers (and their heeled sisters), as well as ballet slippers, vintage-inspired sneakers, over-the-knee boots, and more, are all fair game when choosing what to wear with your mini skirt nowadays. Of course, formality never goes out of style, as evidenced by fashion week street style moments where attendees paired theirs with high heels in both vibrant and versatile hues.
Ahead, check out 9 shoe styles you can incorporate into your next mini skirt outfit no matter the temperature.
Stark Neutral Heels
Classic pointed-toe pumps never go out of style, though they’re getting remixed in new ways with today’s wave of mini skirts. One popular technique is contrasting the tones of a mini skirt and a heel. For example, a stark white pump with a dark chocolate-brown ensemble, or smooth black-leather heels that will elevate a cream or pale beige look. Chic and nonchalant, this trick also masters the art of putting wardrobe basics to work for any occasion.
Retro Trainers
For a dash of sporty inspiration, lace up some low-top sneakers with your next mini skirt outfit. Retro-inspired pairs like Adidas’ viral Samba sneakers are a popular choice thanks to their paneled uppers and gum-rubber soles. Consider the style an athletic counterpart to the equally practical — and trendy — ballet flat.
Mary Jane Flats
Within the ballet-flats trend that’s taken the 2020s by storm, Mary Janes have emerged as a sweet option that pairs well with the equally preppy and feminine mini skirt. Strap into a single- or double-buckled style with a tonal color or subtle print for a dash of individual flair at your next outing.
Sleek Platform Sandals
For a dynamic height boost, elevate your mini skirt with a soaring pair of platform sandals. Tall block heels with thick soles will provide the starkest complement while ensuring you’re balanced as you reach new heights.
Candy-Colored Pumps
To run with the current red trend that’s sweeping fashion, why not slip on a colorful pair of pumps? Smooth styles are available in a wide array of colors and heel heights, though warmer tones like reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows will make the boldest statement. Streamline yours with a matching set of tights that will surely make a statement with every step.
Loafer Heels
Heeled loafers are continuing to make bold steps, carrying a dash of prep-school cool to any mini skirt-based outfit. A penny-strapped version with minimal hardware will embrace the shoe’s preppy roots while remaining dynamic and sharp in its own right.
Ridged Booties
You'll find a practical mini skirt base in lug-soled boots. Round and narrow-toed styles with thick, ridged rubber soles will bring you traction while navigating any terrain, plus an edgy height boost. Ankle- or calf-high styles work by themselves or with tights.
Metal-Accented Pumps
Revamp your shoe rotation with a heavy-metal heel for the modern age. As we saw during New York Fashion Week, your shoes will be on full display wherever you go, even when you're bundled up. If you’re craving grunge, slip on a neutral leather style in any height that’s accented with baubles like studs, chains, or pierced rings.
Penny Loafers
The timeless penny loafer has been one of the defining shoes of the 2020s, and it's a perfect match for the equally academic mini skirt. Pairs with flat soles or low heels can be dressed up and mixed with any style of socks or tights thanks to a wide array of colors on the market. Go bold with a bright color or two-toned texture, or opt for subtle details through accents like quilting, paneling, and hidden-coin charms.