Shoes are one of the most important parts of any outfit they complete the look, affect posture, and even influence confidence. But after 60, some shoe styles can unintentionally age you, feel outdated, or simply lack the comfort and elegance you deserve. As a stylist, I always recommend footwear that combines practicality with polish, ensuring that every pair supports both your lifestyle and your style. Retiring certain shoes doesn’t mean limiting your options; it’s about upgrading to choices that feel modern, flattering, and timeless. Here are 10 shoe styles women over 60 should consider saying goodbye to this year.
Table of Contents
1. Overly Chunky Platform Shoes
Chunky platform shoes may have a bold appeal, but they often overwhelm mature frames and add unnecessary bulk to outfits. The exaggerated soles also make walking less stable, increasing the risk of slips or trips. For women over 60, the priority is balance, both in terms of proportions and comfort. Platforms can easily look clunky instead of chic, distracting from your overall look. A smarter choice is opting for block heels or low wedges. They provide the same leg-lengthening effect with far more stability. Streamlined designs in leather or suede give polish while keeping you secure and stylish.
2. Kitten Heels with Outdated Shapes
Kitten heels are timeless when styled correctly, but older versions with awkward proportions like rounded toes and stubby heels tend to look frumpy. These outdated silhouettes don’t flatter the legs or elevate an outfit the way a modern cut does. Today’s kitten heels are sleeker, featuring pointed or almond toes and a refined heel shape that feels both feminine and current. They’re also practical for women who want height without the strain of stilettos. Instead of holding onto outdated pairs, update to streamlined designs in neutral shades. They’ll pair seamlessly with dresses, skirts, and trousers for a chic finishing touch.
3. Heavy Clogs
Clogs may offer comfort, but their bulky shape isn’t always flattering, especially after 60. The chunky sole can make legs appear shorter and weigh down otherwise elegant outfits. While they’ve had moments of revival, traditional clogs often feel too rustic or casual for modern wardrobes. Instead, consider mules, loafers, or block-heel slides, which provide the same slip-on ease but with a more sophisticated shape. Choosing pairs in leather or suede elevates the look, making them versatile enough for both casual and dressy settings. By swapping heavy clogs for sleeker options, you’ll maintain comfort while refining your overall style.
4. Orthopedic-Style Sandals
Overly chunky orthopedic sandals might prioritize function, but they often sacrifice fashion. Thick soles, Velcro straps, and clunky designs can unintentionally age an outfit. The good news? Many brands now offer supportive sandals that blend comfort with style. Look for contoured footbeds wrapped in leather or chic metallic straps that feel modern yet practical. Adjustable designs provide ease without looking medical. By choosing stylish comfort sandals, you’ll stay on-trend while protecting your feet. The goal is balance supportive shoes that feel intentional and polished, not purely functional. There’s no need to compromise style for comfort when you can have both.
5. Outdated Wedge Sneakers
Wedge sneakers were a brief trend in the early 2010s, but they rarely flatter women over 60 today. The hidden heel adds bulk around the ankle, disrupting natural proportions and often making legs appear shorter. Instead, a pair of streamlined leather sneakers is the perfect alternative. They’re versatile, supportive, and modern working equally well with jeans, skirts, or casual dresses. White sneakers remain a timeless choice, but soft neutrals like beige, taupe, or even metallics add subtle flair. Slip-on trainers are another chic, comfortable option. By retiring wedge sneakers, you’ll instantly modernize your look with shoes that feel current and elegant.
6. Overly Embellished Flats
Flats with oversized bows, rhinestones, or excessive detailing can easily tip into looking outdated or overly youthful. Instead of adding elegance, they often feel fussy or distracting. Flats are meant to be versatile, and the most flattering versions are simple, clean-lined, and timeless. Ballet flats, loafers, and pointed-toe flats in leather or suede achieve just that. If you enjoy embellishment, opt for subtle details like a metallic buckle or a small bow in matching tones. These understated accents provide charm without overwhelming. By swapping overly decorated flats for minimalist designs, you’ll achieve effortless polish with every step.
7. Square-Toe Pumps from the ’90s
Square-toe shoes are trending again, but not all versions work. The overly boxy pumps from the ’90s, with thick soles and rigid shapes, feel outdated and unflattering today. They shorten the appearance of the foot and lack refinement. Instead, look for modern interpretations of square-toe shoes slimmer cuts with elegant lines and softer edges. Alternatively, almond and pointed toes remain classic, elongating the legs and pairing beautifully with any outfit. Updating your shoe collection with contemporary shapes ensures your footwear feels fresh, elegant, and flattering, rather than stuck in a past trend cycle.
8. Plastic Flip-Flops
Rubber flip-flops are fine for the pool or beach, but they rarely look polished in everyday settings. They offer little support and can make even stylish outfits look careless. For women over 60, comfort and refinement should work hand in hand. Leather sandals, cushioned slides, or espadrilles provide the same easy wearability but with a far more elevated appearance. Neutral tones or metallic finishes blend seamlessly into wardrobes, while supportive footbeds ensure all-day comfort. Swapping out casual flip-flops for refined summer sandals instantly upgrades your look, proving that practicality and elegance can go together effortlessly.
9. Worn-Out Comfort Shoes
Even the best shoes lose their appeal once they’re scuffed, sagging, or out of shape. Worn-out comfort shoes can make an otherwise stylish outfit look tired. Many women hold onto them because they feel broken in, but investing in fresh pairs makes a huge difference. Today, countless brands create chic comfort shoes with modern details and excellent support. Look for cushioned soles, breathable materials, and stylish finishes like leather or suede. Replacing overly worn shoes ensures your overall look stays intentional and elegant. It’s not about discarding comfort it’s about choosing options that support both your feet and your style.
10. Ultra-Pointy Heels
Extremely pointy stilettos elongate the legs but often feel severe and uncomfortable after 60. The exaggerated tips can also look dated, especially when paired with thin, high heels. Stylists recommend opting for softer points, almond toes, or rounded pumps with lower, block heels. These provide the same flattering elongation without the harshness or discomfort. Modern pump designs in neutral shades or muted metallics are versatile and timeless, pairing effortlessly with everything from jeans to dresses. Retiring ultra-pointy heels doesn’t mean giving up sophistication it means choosing elegant shoes you’ll actually enjoy wearing.
Leave a Reply