Gladiator-style sandals and Mary Jane heels are among the women’s footwear trends for Spring/Summer 2019.

Jessica Tang, a Hong Kong-based trend consultant at the World Global Style Network (WGSN), said on Thursday that since 2000s references continued to emerge, gladiator-style sandals were set to return next season. However, she predicted that summer essential would return with an addition of low heels, a contemporary spin on the relaxed style.

Meanwhile, Mary Jane heels is a balance between casual and sports-inspired looks that became an important style in recent seasons.

In addition to Mary Jane heels, mid-heel loafers are predicted to be a trend next season as the design smartens up women’s fashion.

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Tang said women sought comfort and a style that helped smarten up the way they dress, adding that they also wanted to have a sense of empowerment, control and self-expression.

The trend forecast was based on observations on what is happening in the world, consumer’s lifestyle, social media, arts and culture.

Based on the research, Tang revealed three macro trends for Spring/Summer 2019, namely Common Ground, In Touch and Creative Manifesto.

Common Ground focuses on localization and comfort, while In Touch stresses tactility. As for Creative Manifesto, the trend focuses on fun and freedom of expression.

These three macro trends will shape women’s footwear styles for the upcoming seasons. Besides the aforementioned styles, Tang said asymmetrical sandals, chunky sneakers, folded sandals and embellished slides were among the footwear trends for Spring/Summer 2019. (kes)