The traditional pump has sustained itself over several seasons after experiencing a major comeback. The ladylike silhouette comes in various forms, but it’s the almond toe shoe shape that’s rising up above the rest for 2026.
What that looks like: a sleek, ever-so-slightly pointed V-shape toe that resembles, yes, an almond. Heels and the vamp (the upper section of the shoe) are of varying heights and coverage levels, respectively. But largely, for 2026, the triumphant version leans more into the ’80s aesthetic—which is no surprise, given the jewel-tones and strong shoulders that have been all over the runways.
The almond toe shoe was Princess Diana’s favorite style all through the ’80s, a time when she established enduring wardrobe classics with staples like her Lady Dior handbag, a houndstooth blazer, bike shorts worn with a slogan sweatshirt, and a fabulous tan. In the early years of her marriage and in her many royal appearances, she often opted for the classic two-toned Chanel shoe with a low heel. This particular style of pump articulated many of Princess Diana’s sartorial pressure points: elegant, easy, sophisticated, and easy to dress up and down.
Looking to the pre-fall 2026 collections, the nut shaped pump is everywhere. At Armarium, they’re styled with a pillbox hat, another ’80s accessory that’s so back for 2026. Khaite’s patent black pump proposal is styled prim and proper with a classic pencil skirt, while Ganni reformulates them into a ballerina version, added more modern stud details.
At Sea, the still-trending ballet pump gets almond-ified, but more and more they’re elevated with higher heels. At Stella McCartney and Victoria Beckham, for example, the leg is elongated with stiletto styles and paired with leggings. Again, so ’80s.
On the streets, the almond toe has transcended any accusations that it’s a “grandma” shoe and been incorporated into it-girl fashion. Just look to cool-girl brands like Aeyde or Chloë Sevigny and Katie Holmes fave Jude, Le Monde Beryl, and Kendall Jenner’s go-to Studio Amelia. Put your best nut forward!
