The summer 2025 season in Spain is marked by the return of a vibrant trend from the mid-2000s: metallic-effect footwear. Sandals and ballet flats in gold and silver shades have become key wardrobe pieces, able to transform any look by adding sophistication and originality. This trend has firmly established itself both on the runways and in street style, becoming an essential part of summer outfits.
One of the foremost fans of metallic shoes is Queen Letizia, who regularly demonstrates their versatility. Her examples show how such shoes can complement and liven up even the most understated outfits. For instance, at the closing of the 15th Atlàntida Mallorca Film Fest, the queen paired a white dress from the Italian brand Mantú with gold Sundace sandals from Aquazzura. On another occasion, during a work meeting in June 2024, she chose flat Gala sandals by Pedro García adorned with crystals to go with a gray-blue dress by Adolfo Domínguez, proving that a touch of shine is also appropriate in business attire.
Street style offers plenty of ideas for integrating metallic shoes into everyday looks. For example, wide-leg jeans paired with a top featuring an asymmetric cut or decorative elements like ruffles gain a particular elegance thanks to metallic ballet flats. This accent does not weigh down the outfit, maintaining its natural look and comfort.
Even the simplest combinations, such as a basic T-shirt and neutral-colored trousers, benefit from the addition of bright shoes. In this case, the ‘less is more’ principle applies, where a statement accessory becomes the centerpiece of the entire ensemble. It’s the perfect solution for the dynamic rhythm of city life, where comfort and style must go hand in hand.
Bermuda shorts, which have made a comeback this summer, find their ideal match in metallic footwear. This pairing looks fresh and stylish, whether worn with a simple white shirt, a minimalist top, or even as part of an office look. Likewise, shiny shoes pair perfectly with relaxed boho-style knit dresses, adding a subtle romantic touch to summer evenings.
Metallic footwear is an excellent balancing element for skirts with bold prints. Whether it’s a pleated model or a skirt with a vibrant pattern, shiny sandals or ballet flats complete the look without creating visual clutter. They are also versatile when paired with dresses of all styles, from classic options to avant-garde designs with cutouts, highlighting their uniqueness.
Combining metallic shine with animal prints, such as leopard or snake patterns, has become one of the season’s top fashion tricks. To avoid an overloaded look, it’s best to pair this bold combo with understated pieces and minimal accessories. This approach works well for both daytime and evening outings.
For special occasions and formal events, metallic footwear is also indispensable. It subtly complements mini dresses with voluminous details or structured cuts, allowing the outfit to remain the focal point. Gold and silver sandals and ballet flats have become a frequent choice for wedding guests and other events, adding a touch of light and elegance to the look.
The popularity of this trend is confirmed not only on the runways, where it has been showcased by brands like Chloé, but also among global celebrities. Actress Lily Collins recently appeared at Wimbledon in a white outfit, complemented by simple flat ballet shoes with a metallic sheen. This has firmly established such footwear as a long-term and significant trend in the fashion world.
