The Freaky Footwear Trend Taking Fall by Storm
There’s something weirdly wonderful happening in the world of footwear this fall. Gone are the dainty ballet slippers and pastel sneakers—this season, the coolest styles are pierced, studded, and even cloven. Fall 2025 is embracing the freaky shoe trend, proving that a touch of odd and unsettling can be incredibly chic. So if you’re tired of your New Balances or Doc Martens, it’s officially time to let your freak flag fly—especially from the ankles down.
Viral Shoe Revolution
What began as a quirky online fascination has grown into a full-blown fashion movement. Mandy Lee, dubbed the CEO of Freaky Shoes, popularized the freaky shoe concept across TikTok and Instagram, curating her top pairs for The Real Real and showing the world how to style them. Once dismissed as “ugly shoes,” these pieces have evolved beyond sneakers into flats, heels, and even sandals, redefining what’s considered stylish. As Schiaparelli’s Trompe L’Oeil feet shoes proved—fashion’s edge is all about playful design and avant-garde energy.
Split-Toe Obsession
The reigning monarch of freaky shoes remains the Tabi, the split-toe design born from Maison Margiela and now copied by Steve Madden and Jeffrey Campbell. Even a jelly Tabi exists—proof that the world can’t get enough of this weird shoe silhouette. But a new generation is rising. Sandy Liang’s Paw Mary Jane, shaped like a subtle cat paw or dog paw, channels her sporty-coquette aesthetic with quirky footwear charm. Whether you notice the detail or not, these shoes whisper one thing: the weirder, the better.
Bold Brands to Watch
Ready to shop? The freaky footwear market is overflowing with bold designers taking risks. Tory Burch surprises with pierced mules and cutout wedges, complete with metallic piercings and reversed soles. Marni’s Fussbett clogs, crafted from long-hair calfskin, turn “ugly” into storybook style. Miu Miu’s Èlan Nappa Leather Pumps embrace grandma-chic, while Birkenstock’s Naples Clogs lean into grandpa vibes—and yes, they’re going viral. Meanwhile, The Row’s Hudson Suede Slide Mules offer luxurious minimalism, and Chloë Sevigny’s pick, the ECCO Biom lace-up sneaker, proves even comfort shoes can get freaky.
Weird Is Winning
Fashion’s current mantra? Embrace individuality. The freaky shoe movement celebrates confidence, style experimentation, and the thrill of breaking fashion’s old rules. From runway to street, every unusual design tells a story of creative expression. Whether you choose Tabis, pierced heels, or paw-shaped Mary Janes, make this fall your moment to get your freak on—one bold step at a time.
