The 2016 Shoe Trends That Are Officially Back in 2026

2016 is so back – and so are the shoes. Okay, we’re maybe not reviving the Snapchat dog filter just yet – but we’re definitely here for the Insta throwbacks, Tumblr-era music, and the major comeback of some of the year’s most iconic shoes. We’re talking checkerboard Vans, ballet flats, Converse All stars… so, grab your bomber jacket and skinny jeans: these are the 2016 shoes that are officially back for 2026.

Vans

Of course, Vans never really left. This iconic brand has been delivering legendary silhouettes for decades, and 2026 is shaping up to be a major moment – searches are already up 55% since late 2025. Rewind to 2016: the Vans Old Skool was everywhere, with its low-top, skate-ready silhouette and that unmistakable side stripe. Fast forward to now and it’s still a certified classic – easy to style, endlessly wearable, and the perfect 2026 staple.

If you weren’t rocking an Old Skool with your go-to ripped jeans, you probably had a pair of the iconic Classic Checkerboard Slip Ons in your 2016 wardrobe. The low-profile, slip-on design saw us reaching for them time and time again, while the instantly recognisable checkerboard pattern screams 2016 in the best way. Your 2026 rotation just got way more fun with this classic pair.

Looking for a fresh take on these 2016 icons? The Vans Super Lowpro is our current obsession. This sleek sneaker takes classic Vans DNA and gives it a modern remix, with a slimmed-down sole and a lineup of fresh, on-trend colourways. Heritage meets now = instant wardrobe win.

Ballet Flats

One thing that 2016 and 2026 have in common? Ballet flats are everywhere. Whether you’re keeping it cute in a classic flat or opting for a super on-trend sneakerina, there’s no denying that this 2016 trend is already having a major 2026 moment. A simple silhouette like the schuh Lessie is perfect for adding an elegant touch to any look – easily the chicest way to nod to 2016 in your everyday ‘fits. Want something a little more Scandi-chic than full-on throwback? The schuh Lucinda has that elevated ballet flat energy nailed.

The sneakerina (aka ballet flat meets trainer) feels way more 2026 than 2016, making it the perfect update on a 2010s staple. And with an 82% increase in searches in the last year, the sneakerina is seriously hot right now. Double up on the 2016 vibes with a style from one of the year’s most iconic brands, the adidas Barreda Mary Jane: cute and sporty in equal measure, this slip-on shoe wouldn’t look out of place in 2016 or 2026 – and we can’t get enough of it.

Converse

You didn’t think we’d forget Converse, did you? With instantly recognisable silhouettes and true cultural icon status, this is a brand that’s literally been cool since forever. Whether you were pairing your low tops with skinny jeans in 2016 or are teaming your high tops with barrel-leg denim in 2026, Converse has always had our backs.

We’re sticking with the classics for our picks from this truly timeless brand. The Converse All Star in staple black, white, and burgundy colourways are certified wardrobe classics – looking just as good now as they did a decade ago. Go for the All Star Hi for that iconic high-top basketball shoe silhouette, or choose the All Star Ox for a sleek, versatile vibe that brings just the right amount of 2016 nostalgia to your everyday ‘fits.

adidas

Of course, we can’t talk about 2016 without talking adidas. Between the classic three-stripe leggings, signature t-shirts, and retro trainers, this is the brand that everyone was obsessed with in 2016. The real standout? The adidas Superstar: needing no introduction, this is one seriously iconic shoe – and it’s basically pure 2010s nostalgia in trainer form. 

Fast-forward to now and adidas is still doing what it does best. Our 2026 pick is the adidas VL Court: with that familiar low-top silhouette and classic adidas branding, these versatile trainers are the easiest way to bring some throwback energy into your rotation. 

Want to dial up the 2010s vibes even more? The VL Court Bold delivers exactly that with its statement platform sole. Fashion usually takes a couple of decades to circle back – but platforms broke the rules, hitting mainstream less than ten years after their 2010s comeback. Different decades, same energy – whatever style you pick, you just can’t miss with the three stripes.

Ready to Bring Some 2016 Energy into 2026?

Whether you’re loving the throwback vibes or chasing something fresh for 2026, we reckon taking inspo from this iconic era is always a good idea. Stick with an old fave or switch it up with a new pick – either way, you’re set.

Trends change, but some classics never fade – and these shoes prove it. Whether you’re bagging some signature Converse high tops, iconic Vans sneakers, or a chic pair of ballet flats, you won’t regret bringing a little 2016 energy into your 2026 rotation.