Spring Summer 2026 Women’s Shoe Trends in Ireland

Spring summer 2026 women’s shoes focus on soft colour, wearable heels and refreshed classics that fit Irish weather and day‑to‑night dressing. The mood is polished but practical, with comfort built into every trend.

Key colours for SS26

Colour divides into calm everyday tones and joyful accent shades. Soft butter yellow, clay beige and stone grey are the leading neutrals, ideal for work, occasion wear and smart‑casual outfits. Blue stays important, from aquatic sea blues to gentler sky tones that pair easily with denim and florals. Purple is the statement shade of the season, running from lilac to deeper plum, and works beautifully for event shoes. Metallics lean softer and more wearable, especially satin‑style silver and light gold that suit Irish weddings and evenings out.

Heel heights Irish women will actually wear

The headline for 2026 is comfort with style: heels are lower, wider and more stable. Classic stilettos step back in favour of slim block heels and sculptural kitten heels that give a subtle lift without sacrificing balance. Everyday heel heights sit around 2–5 cm, making them realistic for commuting, office days and long occasions. Platforms remain, but they are lower and more discreet, with 2–3 cm bases that add cushioning rather than dramatic height. Curved and slightly flared heels appear on dressy shoes, offering a fashion‑forward look with more support than a pin‑thin heel.

Must‑have styles for Portfashion customers

Refined ballet flats are a core trend, reworked with structured insoles, square toes and sometimes a slim strap so they feel grown‑up and chic. Updated loafers and moccasins in soft leather or suede are another key style, often with a low heel, giving a polished alternative to trainers for work and weekends. Sleek mules and backless slip‑ons are popular for warmer days, with low to mid block heels that can dress up jeans, wide‑leg trousers or midi dresses. Minimalist strappy sandals with padded insoles and delicate ankle straps are go‑to options for holidays and nights out. Lightweight mesh and knit trainers with slim, clean platforms remain essential for casual wear, offering breathability and support for staycations and city breaks.

Toes, details and finishes to focus on

Square toes are one of the strongest design details for SS26, appearing on flats, loafers, sandals and even lighter boots. This shape immediately updates an outfit and balances the wider trousers and relaxed tailoring that are trending in womenswear. Peep‑toe heels and sandals are returning as a modern option for occasions, especially when kept minimal and paired with fresh colours. Details feel romantic and soft: bows, rosettes, knot fronts and delicate embellishments are placed on toes and straps, particularly on flats and low heels. Textures stay wearable and tactile, with supple leathers, suede, mesh and some translucent jelly‑style finishes in chic, muted tones rather than loud neons.

How to buy (and stock) smart for SS26 in Ireland

For the Irish market, focus on styles that handle cooler days and showers while still feeling summery. Closed‑toe flats, loafers and square‑toe shoes in stone grey, cream, purple or soft metallics will work across office looks, jeans and dresses. For occasions, prioritise low block heels or sculptural kitten heels in satin silver, lilac or butter yellow that can comfortably go from ceremony to dancefloor. For holidays and warmer spells, include padded thong sandals, slim multi‑strap sandals and low wedges in jelly mint, sky blue or pastel pink. Finally, offer at least one streamlined platform trainer or mesh sneaker in a neutral with a hint of colour so Portfashion customers have a stylish, all‑day option for sightseeing and everyday wear.