Fashion People Are Wearing This Elegant Shoe Trend in 2026

From NYC to Paris, the style set can’t get enough of this unexpected shoe trend. Whether you call it calf hair or pony hair, there’s no debate: This faux-fur aesthetic is one of the hottest trends out the gate for 2026. If you’re already wearing this textured shoe, consider yourself a trendsetter. For those curious about how to style the calf-hair shoe trend, keep scrolling for outfit inspiration from the fashion people who defined it. Spoiler: Slip skirts, baggy jeans, and elegant winter coats make the list.

The calf-hair shoe trend is right in step with the current fascination with walking on the wild side. Fashion has skewed primal lately, with a preference for all things animal—faux-fur trimmings, avant-garde prints that resemble a fawn or the view from a safari (think Zebra), and embossed leathers for a tactile appeal. If you’re interested or simply looking to broaden your shoe collection, do consider the calf-hair shoe trend.

@cocoschiffer wears a pair of Dolce Vita cow-print calf-hair heels, with sheer tights, a slip skirt, and oversized funnel-neck leather jacket.

Spotted in NYC—one of our editors in residence Coco Schiffer wears a cow-print pump from Dolce Vita. She pairs the calf-hair shoe with a black slip skirt, an oversize leather jacket, and sheer tights—the cow print pops against the all-black look. Not to mention, it’s a shoo-in with the style set thanks to the print’s rise in popularity over the past few months. If you’re a leopard fan or prefer a zebra stripe, you’re just in luck: The calf-hair shoe trend lends itself quite well to animal prints.

@christietyler captures an image of The Row calf-hair ballet flats.

Why is the fashion set looking to upgrade their shoe rack to this furry finish? For one, it’s a chic alternative to the predictable winter shoe trends like suede and patent leather. Elegant and unexpected, this faux-fur shoe trend will instantly elevate any winter outfit. We’ve spotted calf hair across several shoe styles, from kitten heels and Mary Janes to knee-high boots and loafers. Keep scrolling to shop a list of the standout styles from the calf-hair shoe trend.

@_livmadeline wears cow-print calf-shoes with blue baggy jeans, an oversized blazer, and a black tote.

Second to its unexpected nature, the calf-hair trend adds an intriguing tactile element. As any fashion person will tell you, texture is essential to styling. When used correctly, it can make an outfit visually interesting and make it feel effortless.

@maryljean wears a cropped trenc, white denim, and a pair of calf-hair shoes.

Open yourself to the elegant possibility of a pony-hair ballet flat or tiger-print bootie. Both would look cute with a pair of barrel-leg trousers and a cinched-waist cardigan.