You’ve already seen the explosion of Vibram toe shoes all over the Internet and on the feet of fashion insiders, as well as big celebs Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart. What’s undeniable is that we all want the ecstasy of freedom: toe shoes or barefoot shoes seemingly translate this to the feet and toes. There’s something undeniably earthy and sexy too about putting your feet on display. Take those socks off!
Balenciaga released their barely-there sandal – the Barefoot Zero Shoe for Autumn/ Winter 2025, and Coperni a toe shoe for Resort 2025, which begs the question: why aren’t we just going barefoot? Minimalism and anti-fashion then pushes itself to negation. But undressing can still be an act of fashion. We want to get those feet out, whether it’s during a countryside escape or a full blown re-enactment of the 60s hippie communes. Give us playtime in the grass with no fear of stepping on someone’s smashed beer bottle.
Now arrives Rombaut x Puma displaying their new ultra-lightweight offering with model’s feet un-clad too. They connect to the earth, whilst not quite touching grass.With May Day and Beltane celebrations in full swing across the U.K. it feels that sporty silhouettes have dipped into the ancient fields of past for that foot to earth connection. Grounding techniques are becoming increasingly talked about as climate and political anxieties weigh heavy on the world. A pair of shoes might not cure your mental health problems, but retail therapy was coined for a reason.
