Fashion is having a nostalgic moment yet again and this time, it's peep-toe shoes making a bold return. Once a darling of mid-century wardrobes and a Y2K staple, this open-toed style is back on trend, reimagined for a new generation. From luxury runways to red carpets, peep-toes are walking their way into 2025’s must-have lists, and the fashion world is here for it.
Peep-toe shoes first gained popularity during the 1940s, emerging as a subtle symbol of femininity amid the constraints of wartime fashion. With fabric shortages and rationing in full swing, this slight reveal of the toes offered a cheeky, fashionable rebellion. Over the decades, they’ve cycled in and out of style, most recently peaking in the late 2010s as a go-to party and summer staple.
If you’ve held onto a beloved pair from the early 2000s, now’s the time to dust them off. Fashion’s cyclical nature has swung the spotlight back onto these open-toed beauties, once again making them a statement of effortless elegance.
This season, high-end fashion houses are breathing new life into the peep-toe silhouette. Brands like Prada, Tory Burch, Miu Miu and Jute have all reinterpreted the style, offering fresh takes with bold colours, sculptural heels, and modern materials. Whether paired with slouchy denim or a minimal evening dress, these shoes now strike a balance between nostalgia and contemporary cool.
The revival isn’t just confined to the runway. The peep-toe is now being seen as a versatile piece, something that can add a subtle edge to your everyday outfit or serve as the focal point of a dressed-up ensemble.
Style icons are clearly on board with the peep-toe renaissance. Hailey Bieber turned heads by donning a vintage-inspired pair not only at the Met Gala but also at the afterparty, showing how versatile and red-carpet ready these shoes can be. Elle Fanning, known for her timeless elegance, added her touch of glamour to the trend, while ‘Barbie’ star Margot Robbie gave the classic look a playful spin. Chloë Sevigny and Sabrina Carpenter have also been spotted in stylish iterations, making a strong case for their return.
What is 'barebacking'? The Gen Z commute trend that's viral on social media
So, if you’ve been hanging onto your favourite pair of peep-toes from over a decade ago, good call. The fashion world is once again embracing this open-toed icon, and there’s never been a better time to let your toes steal the show.
