More Than Just "Sensible": The New Era of Shoes for Women Over 60

The Unscripted Years
Dec 20, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Jan 10

There’s a long-standing myth that once a woman hits her 60s, her wardrobe—and especially her footwear—should quietly fade into the background. But in 2025, the fashion landscape has shifted. We are seeing a "comfort-first" revolution where the most stylish shoes on the market are actually the ones that feel best on your feet.

Forget the "clunky" stereotypes. Modern style for the sophisticated woman is about texture, silhouette, and subtle details. Here is how to navigate the best shoe trends of the year while keeping your look elevated and contemporary.

1. The "Power Flat": Mary Janes & Pointed Toes

Tory Burch Reva Flat

The ballet flat has evolved. Instead of flimsy soles with no support, 2025 is all about structured flats that command attention.

The Trend: Mary Janes with multiple thin straps are a major look right now. They offer the charm of a classic silhouette with the added stability of a strap.
The Stylish Choice: Look for Vionic’s Alameda or Sole Bliss’s London. They offer a modern square toe and deep toe boxes that accommodate bunions or wider feet without looking "orthopedic." For a more minimalist travel version, the Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flat remains a chic, packable staple.
Style Tip: Pair these with a cropped trouser or a midi skirt to show off the strap detail.

2. The High-Fashion Loafer

Loafers are the ultimate "chameleon" shoe—they work just as well at a gallery opening as they do at a casual brunch.

The Trend: Moving away from the heavy "lug soles" of previous years, the trend for 2025 is slim, streamlined loafers in luxurious suedes and metallic leathers.
The Stylish Choice: Birdies (The Starling) or Margaux offer loafers with hidden arch support and internal cushioning that feels like a sneaker but looks like a designer Italian flat. If you love a hand-crafted, artisanal look, Born (Carrera) offers beautiful leather loafers with world-class footbeds.
Style Tip: Experiment with textures like leopard print or "quiet luxury" neutrals (oatmeal, olive, or navy) to add depth to your outfit.

Margaux Flats for Women

3. Retro Court Sneakers

The "clunky dad shoe" is taking a backseat to the retro court sneaker. Think sleek, low-profile silhouettes that don't look like you're headed to a 5K.

The Trend: Minimalist leather sneakers in white or cream with vintage-inspired accents (like gum soles or suede panels).
The Stylish Choice: Adidas SL72s or the On Cloud 6 offer that slim profile that pairs beautifully with wide-leg jeans or even a floral dress. For those who need maximum cushioning for sensitive joints, the Hoka Clifton 10 or Bondi 9 in monochromatic tones are the gold standard for "cloud-like" comfort.
Style Tip: Keep them pristine. A clean, white leather sneaker from a brand like Veja is an instant "age-defier" for any outfit.

4. Occasion Heels (Without the Pain)

For weddings or formal events, the six-inch stiletto is out. In its place? The sculptural kitten heel and the architectural block heel.

The Trend: Heels with unique shapes—think flared bases or slightly tapered kitten heels—provide a wider "landing zone" for your foot, making them much more stable.
Style Tip: If you're wearing a monochromatic outfit, use your shoes as a "statement piece" by choosing a metallic finish or a bold jewel tone.
Kitten Heels, Block Heels & Flared Heels

Shopping Checklist: Form Meets Function

When you're out shopping, look for these "hidden" style features that ensure longevity:

Feature	Why It’s a Style Win	Recommended Brands
Pointed or Almond Toe	Elongates the leg without needing a high heel.	Sole Bliss, Margaux
Monochromatic Soles	A sneaker with a matching sole looks more like a "shoe" and less like gym gear.	Hoka, Allbirds
Hands-Free Tech	Modern slip-ins prevent the struggle of laces while looking trendy.	Kizik, Skechers
Quality Materials	Real leather and suede mold to your feet over time.	Born, Mephisto

The Final Word

Style over 60 isn't about following every trend; it’s about intentionality. It’s choosing a shoe that says you’re active, modern, and unwilling to compromise. Whether it’s a metallic loafer from Birdies or a sleek retro sneaker from On, the right shoe should make you feel like you’re standing a little taller—even if it’s a flat.