We will soon bid farewell to 2025 in three months. Some of us might have to say “goodbye” to our outdated clothes and footwear, too. Are you a fan of men’s formal shoes who is looking for a wardrobe revamp? Fortunately, you don’t have to surf the internet to know what's coming in 2026. You will find everything in this article. We have forecasted some leather formal shoes’ trends to keep gentlemen ready for the new year.
So, what is the designer buzz?
Paris to Milan runways are suggesting a classy turn for men's formal shoes in 2026. For example, last Paris Fashion Week's Hermès show showcased open-weave leather sandals. People thought it was an intelligent method to incorporate luxury leather breathability during summer.
Similarly, Prada's new collection also brought global craftsmanship into men's footwear. Remember the infamous repurposing of India's Kolhapuri chappals? Yes, those might be the new Western trend next year. Soon, even traditional lace-ups will get a makeover. Wales Bonner showed glossy oxfords with crystal buckles. The meshing of British heritage with show-stopping detail made headlines.
These luxury presentations indicate a trend towards sophisticated leathers and handcrafted finishes. GQ India observes that exotic weaves are making a comeback, too. The "snakeskin shoes" or “crocodile prints” might be the new normal in Gen Z offices.
Which trends are already outdated?
Before we discuss what’s trending, let's take a moment of silence for the dead trends. Some of last year's more relaxed styles are fast fading from men’s formal shoes. PVC material in formal shoes is now a thing of the past. Rather, designers are marking the triumph of good-quality leather. Fashion bloggers have even applauded the demise of over-casual options. As GQ said, taking your style up a notch these days entails leaving behind "furry clogs, freaky trainers, and (gulp) cool-guy “FiveFingers" in your wardrobe.
Similarly, the blustery combat boot has fallen out of favor in high-end styles. The bling-y basketball sneakers, which were considered the epitome of smart formal outfits, are no longer cool. So, the pendulum is poised to swing toward traditional dress shoes. The shoes should shine in luxurious leather.
Formal shoes forecast: What will be trending?
We have segregated shoes according to the seasons. Our list compiles all the top choices that are suitable for Indian weather.
Summer formal shoe trends
India's hot summer months call for formal shoes to be light and airy. March to June might show you different shades of slimmer slip-on designs. Loafers and low-profile oxfords with skinny designs are becoming popular, according to Bollywood stylists. For example, Nordstrom menswear director Jian DeLeon suggests a "refresh" of summer dress shoes with low-profile soles. That might happen even in traditional silhouettes such as boat shoes or penny loafers.
So, slim-sole loafers and slip-ons in leather might be trending in the formal world. These shoes look dashing without warming the feet like thick boots. Fashion experts recommend pale colors for these styles.
Footwear bloggers observe that loafers are basically "the new office staple," offered in breathable designs. Some of them are also plant-friendly leather substitutes.
On the runway, we spotted pointers to this trend as well. Hermès included open-weave leather pieces and rope-solved sandals in its men's line. That was a prime example of how luxury brands are adapting formal shoes to be usable during summer. Briefly, the 2026 summer fashion prefers sleek yet light shoes. Be ready for perforated or woven leather loafers and Oxfords in pale colors.
Monsoon formal shoe trends
When rain knocks on the door, function equals formality. Designers are incorporating water-resistant elements into formal footwear in 2026. Style gurus suggest waterproofing and slip-resistance for the monsoon can keep you safe. Practically speaking, we might witness traditional leather shoes with a technological spin. Manufacturers are already experimenting with Oxfords and Derbys. They have coated shoes in waxed or treated leathers to bear the changing weather.
Slip-on formal shoes can be reinforced with soles to keep from slipping on rainy roads. Labels are now adding concealed quick-dry insoles inside traditional shoes. So, waterproof leather loafers with textured soles will take the place of smooth-soled ones. Style guides include "waterproof sneakers" and rubber-soled shoes as rain-day favorites. It will translate to professional attire very soon.
A mix of stylish uppers and practical soles can make these monsoons beautiful. These shoes can keep you looking tidy even when it rains.
Winter formal shoe trends
Winter months call for coziness and light. Formal leather boots (ankle boots, brogues, or Chelsea boots) will be the dominant style in the 2026 winter.
These boots come with waterproof leather and insulated insides. They are ideal for early northern Indian winters. Fur-lined or padded dress shoes might emerge for better comfort in colder areas. They may also become a trend in metro cities if Gen Zs want to.
Dark winter colors are still in vogue: black, deep brown, and mahogany brown leathers will feature in formal footwear color schemes. However, party times can demand glossy finishes and textures. So, get ready for delicate patent or suede highlights.
On the other hand, temperate climates might witness something new. Insulated Oxfords and Derby shoes carry on the theme of traditional men's wear during winter. Throughout, the direction is toward eternal shapes constructed tougher: high-end leather formal shoes with more traction and warmth.
Get the best formal leather shoes online.
We see the general 2026 vision for men's formal leather shoes is simple and practical. It is rather a return of handmade art and classicism, but “reinvented”. Brands want to recreate luxury with modern-day comfort and routine. So, get ready to restock your wardrobe with loafers, monk straps, brogues, and boots. You might get them in top-quality leathers with considerate nuances like fancy buckles or perforations. Consider seasonal tweaks and select wisely. Your shoes should last for years.
Ready to embrace these trends? You don’t have to wait till next year. Visit Alberto Torresi’s latest collection, as it already features this mix of heritage and innovation.
Our Italian-crafted leather formals range from sleek tan brogue Chelsea boots to polished Oxford lace-ups. Each design will align well with next year’s forecasted styles. Stop by Alberto Torresi to discover the latest formal leather shoes online and enter 2026 confidently.