Stock up on sneakers if you want to look trendy next summer. Sporty, comfortable footwear for every occasion - even work - will be all the rage next year. Here are more shoe dos and don'ts from Dusseldorf's shoe fair.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
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Flat, shiny and sporty: Shoes trends for next summer
What will you be wearing on your feet next summer? Lose your ballerinas, but invest in a few new pairs of sneakers, especially shiny ones - according to trend experts at the Dusseldorf shoe fair this week.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
Stick with your sneakers
Is your closet full of sneakers? Definitely hang on to them for next summer, because sporty, comfortable shoes are in. While sneakers of all colors are popular, blue is one to watch out for, according to trend experts at the GDS shoe fair in Dusseldorf, which runs from July 26-28.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M. Hitij
Show your toes
Besides blue, light colors in general are set to be dominant next summer. These sunny sandals feature stud accents for an urban look. The fair "Global Destination for Shoes and Accessories" brings together members of the industry in Dusseldorf to look ahead to trends for spring/summer 2017.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M. Hitij
Tattoo your shoe
Getting inked takes on a whole new meaning with these personalized men's leather shoes. Tattoo artist Max Gartenbach is pictured giving some footwear a permanent makeover. Since a suit wearer generally has to cover up his tattoos with slacks and long sleeves, these unique shoes could provide an alternative way to express your personality - but would you wear them to work?
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M. Hitij
Shoe art
Tattooing is not the only way to get personalized footwear. At the GDS shoe fair in Dusseldorf, there was a lot of paint thrown at shoes - intentionally. A great idea to perhaps recreate in a do-it-yourself hack at home.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
Let your feet sparkle
Shoe makers are hopeful that fashion trends such as ever rising waist lines will put more emphasis on footwear. These sequined espadrilles - in the trendy color blue - are sure to catch eyes. According to Fashion expert Claudia Schulz, they're a good alternative to outdated ballerinas.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M. Hitij
All the colors of the rainbow
When it comes to espadrilles, the color options are practically unlimited. That makes them flexible enough to go with nearly any outfit.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
International flair
Besides espadrilles, other ethnic-inspired designs also continue to be in fashion, like these colorful beaded sandals. They pair well with maxi dresses - as well as with super short shorts.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M. Hitij
Metallic magic
Another shoe trend to watch out for next summer is anything metalic. These tri-colored loafers can easily be paired with a work suit, but are still a great accessory for attention seekers.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
Get sporty
Did we mention sneakers are in? According to trend experts, they're suitable for young and old - and practically fit for any occasion. It's becoming more and more acceptable to sport the comfy shoes at work as well, depending on the design.
Image: Getty Images/A. Rentz
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You've probably been collecting tennis shoes in all styles and colors for a few years now, but now it's official: Hang on to them for at least another season.
Sneakers are in for the whole family, said trend expert Claudia Schulz from the German Shoe Institute at the opening of the 122nd "Global Destination for Shoes and Accessories" trade fair in Dusseldorf on Tuesday. The event, which runs through July 28, features footwear styles for spring/summer 2017.
However, these sneakers more about looking sporty than actually breaking a sweat, Schulz added and stressed that it's also OK for men to pair the comfortable shoes with suits - as long as the sneakers aren't too flashy. Outside of the office, though, anything goes when it comes to tennis shoes - from plain to sparkly.
Swap ballerinas for espadrilles
While high-heels will still be reserved for special occasions, there are a few more elegant alternatives to athletic shoes. Instead of ballerinas or half boots, try espadrilles or mules. Mules, by the way, will apparently also be trendy for men who want a more casual look next spring and summer.
When it comes to color choices, go light and fresh. White, powder, blue and all kinds of metallic colors are what to go for.
According to Germany's National Association for German Shoe Retailers (BDSE), men buy on average two new pairs of shoes per year, while woman purchase seven new pairs. Last year, the majority of shoes sold in Germany were sneakers - and that's not likely to change in 2017.
