How to Accurately Tell a Person’s Personality from Their Shoes

“Show me your shoes, and I’ll tell you who you are.”

There are a great many similar proverbs that all seem to agree on one thing: there are hundreds of ways to gauge a person’s personality without even talking to them. 

While you might think it shallow, you’re guilty of doing it all the time! Our brains are hardwired to form first impressions within the first 100 milliseconds, for which we need visual clues.

Of course, the strongest visual cue is a person’s face. But there might be another cue at the polar opposite end, which might be useful as well: shoes.

Think about it: if shoes can make statements in our fashion culture, what else do they have to say?

From generic, comfortable knit sneakers to expensive, limited edition shoes, here is what your choice of footwear says about your personality.

Do Shoes Really Reveal Your Personality?

When you think about it, it’s not really that surprising. We use shoes as a standard to assess people’s personality traits. Today, shoes have become an integral part of culture.

But beyond their cultural significance, some people suggest that shoes convey ideas about the wearer's national identity, politics, class, race, and social standing. Psychologist Nicola Squicciarino expresses that shoes are “extensions on the corporeal ego.”

Similarly, Social History and Culture Professor Giorgio Riello notes that shoes are a tool to maneuver through the world, whether it’s to catch the bus to work or go backpacking with your friends. Thus, shoes extend (or inhibit) our social, emotional, and physical capacities.

In other words, your choice in footwear is one of the many ways you present yourself to the world and say: this is who I am!

Of course, this isn’t a conscious habit, but it’s one we have all internalized. While you might raise your brow at Buzzfeed’s “what your shoes say about you” quizzes, we have science to back us up.

In a 2012 study, participants were shown close-up images of strangers wearing shoes. By looking at their shoes alone, the participants were able to accurately guess 90% of the strangers’ personality traits, including gender, age, social status, income, and so on. This confirms what we’ve been saying all along: you can tell a lot about a person from their shoes. Stepping Through Time: The Evolution of Shoe Styles and Their Meanings Shoes have evolved significantly over the centuries, each era imbuing different styles with unique meanings about the wearers' personalities and social status. In the 18th century, for example, high heels were worn by both men and women in European courts. Often ornate and impractical, these shoes signified wealth, power, and high social standing. Louis XIV of France famously donned red-heeled shoes, a color that became a symbol of nobility and exclusivity. Moving into the 19th century, the advent of industrialization brought about mass production of shoes, making them more accessible. However, certain styles, like the Victorian lace-up boots, still represented decency and modesty, reflecting the era's strict social norms. Designers created women's boots to cover the ankles, adhering to the conservative values of the time. In the 20th century, the sneaker revolution transformed footwear. Initially designed for sports, sneakers like Converse's Chuck Taylor All-Stars symbolized youthful rebellion and counterculture in the 1960s. This trend continued with the rise of hip-hop culture in the 1980s, where brands like Adidas and Nike became synonymous with street credibility and individual expression. Today, the historical roots of these shoe types continue to influence modern fashion, allowing wearers to draw on past styles to make personal statements. Understanding the historical evolution of footwear helps appreciate how current trends reflect broader cultural and social dynamics, revealing much about an individual's personality and values.

What Do Your Shoes Say About Your Personality?

Athletic Shoes

Athletic shoes are essential for those leading an active lifestyle, reflecting an individual's health-conscious and dynamic personality. They come in various types, each mirroring different aspects of one's character and lifestyle choices.

Running Shoes

Those who value health, activity, and a busy lifestyle often choose running shoes. According to a study from the University of Kansas, shoe choices can provide accurate clues about a person's personality traits, including their levels of conscientiousness and extraversion.

Hence, this is a given; a predisposition towards running shoes can suggest you're active. This might seem a little too obvious, but it's true! Of course, it doesn't only have to be for exercise.

Instead, people who wear running shoes simply like to keep busy, regardless of how they do so. White or black waterproof sneakers, such as Loom Waterproof Sneakers, can also be a sign of a multitasker.

But if you only have a single pair of running shoes as opposed to backups, that might mean you're a little sporadic and often unsuccessful in your efforts. You want to keep busy, but you always fall short.

Cross-Trainers

Those who choose cross-trainers are typically adaptable and open to new experiences, reflecting a flexible and dynamic personality. This aligns with findings from personality psychology research, which links versatile footwear choices to higher levels of openness and adaptability.

Cross-trainers reflect versatility and adaptability. People who prefer these shoes often enjoy various activities and like to stay prepared for anything. This choice can indicate a dynamic personality that values both health and flexibility in their routine.

Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are indicative of an adventurous spirit and a love for nature. People often see individuals who choose these shoes as resilient, determined, and ready to face challenges head-on. They value exploration and have a strong connection to the outdoors.

Psychological studies link footwear choices to high conscientiousness and openness to experience, highlighting a preference for exploration and challenge.

Research from the Journal of Research in Personality suggests that individuals with a high openness to experience often engage in outdoor activities and prefer practical, adventure-ready footwear.

Casual Shoes

Casual shoes reflect a relaxed, easy-going nature and can even highlight specific sub-traits such as creativity or practicality. They offer a window into a person's lifestyle and preferences, providing clues about their personality.

Loafers

Loafers combine style with convenience. They reflect a person who values ease and efficiency while maintaining a polished look.

This choice suggests a practical yet sophisticated nature, indicating that the wearer appreciates comfort and formality without compromising style.

According to psychologists specializing in non-verbal communication, such as Dr. Angela Bahns, loafers may indicate a personality that balances practicality with a desire for a neat and organized appearance. This aligns with findings that shoe choices can reveal aspects of conscientiousness and agreeableness.

Sandals

Sandals can indicate a relaxed and open personality. Research from the Journal of Research in Personality suggests that individuals who choose more casual and comfortable footwear, such as sandals, are often more easy-going and open to new experiences​.

Thus, sandals highlight a laid-back attitude and a love for comfort. They often indicate a person who enjoys a slower pace of life and values simplicity and ease.

Fashion experts note, "Sandals are often chosen by individuals who prioritize comfort and enjoy a casual, relaxed lifestyle. They are the go-to choice for those who value freedom and ease in their daily activities."

Therefore, your sandal choice can also reflect a connection to warm climates and outdoor activities, suggesting that the wearer values relaxation and leisure.

Slip Ons

Slip-on shoes are convenient, but they are also much more than that. The same can be said about the people who wear them.

Comfortable, formal-casual, and stylish, these shoes are at the intersection between introversion and extroversion. If you like to wear slip-ons on a regular basis, you probably don’t like to stand out much.

But that doesn’t mean you don’t know how to keep appearances.

Knit Sneakers

Historically, there was always a negative connotation attached to sneakers. Apparently, if you wore these “street shoes,” you were a delinquent.

But now, sneakers have become a cultural statement.

If you wear knit sneakers, you’re probably in your teens or early twenties. Additionally, you like to keep up with fashion trends.

At the same time, your preference for sneakers could reveal your conformist nature. If you wear the most trendy sneakers, you like to blend in and be accepted.

Also read: 7 Best Unisex Sneakers for Teens | School and Hangouts!

Flats

Flat shoes don’t necessarily denote a flat personality. Instead, all it means is that you’re easy-going, modest, and focused.

Plus, not only are you comfortable in your shoes, but you are also comfortable with yourself. In other words, you don’t believe that you need to wear heels to be taken seriously.

At the same time, printed flats are your way of adding some spice to your footwear without compromising your comfort.

Flip Flops

Everyone owns at least one pair of flip-flops in which they can lounge around. Additionally, flip-flops are the perfect vacationing shoes.

But if you wear flip-flops out of context, you’re likely to be perceived as someone who doesn’t like to take life too seriously.

Off-Brand Sneakers

Many people like to wear off-brand sneakers, and they’re not afraid to admit it. Sure, these shoes may not be as ostentatious, but that’s exactly the point.

Instead of placing any more meaning on their shoes than necessary, these people humbly recognize that shoes are just a tool to move around. Hence, there might also be some hints of financial responsibility as well as modesty among these types of people.

Campy Shoes

Campy shoes define today’s fashion trends, including footwear. Thus, a person who sports chunky,  graphic, and colorful shoes is definitely a yes-man.

This is especially apparent in the way that most campy shoes aren’t even that comfortable to wear. Despite the discomfort, though, these people soldier on in the name of fashion.

But this isn’t necessarily a bad reflection on their character. Instead, campy shoes indicate that the wearer is spirited and zestful.

Formal Shoes

Formal shoes are often indicative of professionalism, ambition, and a preference for structure and order. They are essential for those in professional and formal environments, providing a polished look and signaling various personality traits.

Oxfords

Oxfords denote professionalism and a preference for structure and order. People who wear oxfords have a strong sense of ambition and are seen as reliable and focused individuals. These shoes reflect a meticulous nature and a desire to present oneself as dignified and respectable.

According to Dr. Angela Bahns, oxfords can indicate a personality that values tradition and structure. This aligns with findings from personality psychology, suggesting that those who prefer structured footwear like oxfords often score high on measures of conscientiousness and professionalism.

Dress Shoes

Dress shoes are a dead giveaway that a person is mostly in a professional and formal environment. When you put on dress shoes, you are dressed for success. Even if this means sacrificing your comfort, you won’t take your eye off the ball.

As a result, you are everyone's go-to person, whether it’s for advice or for a favor. Even if your personality might not be everyone’s cup of tea, they know that you are reliable.

Additionally, dress shoes reveal that you are intelligent, mature, confident, and goal-oriented.

Heels

If you wear heels on a daily basis, you’re a trooper.

But beyond that, your classy heels suggest that you like to keep things professional, and you are up to take on the world.

Additionally, being able to flaunt heels proves that you are poised, confident, and don’t want to resign to the shadows. Instead, you are secure with yourself, and other people should make no mistake about it.

Designer Shoes

Designer shoes, often associated with luxury brands and high-end fashion, reflect a taste for status, exclusivity, and a penchant for aesthetics.

These choices go beyond mere functionality, representing an individual's social standing, personal style, and often cultural background.

Shoe choices and their associated personality traits can vary significantly across cultures. In Western cultures, designer shoes often signal wealth and success, while in some Asian cultures, they might also indicate respect for tradition and craftsmanship.

For example, in Japan, high-end shoes are not just about fashion but also about presenting oneself with dignity and respect in social settings.

Expensive Shoes

If you like to wear luxurious, designer shoes, you have the world in the palm of your hand. This isn't only because you have money to spend, but because you know where to spend it.

Your choice of expensive footwear can also indicate the income strata you belong to. High-end brands like Louboutin, Gucci, and Jimmy Choo are often favored by those who appreciate craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Celebrities like Rihanna and Victoria Beckham are known for their impeccable shoe collections, often featuring high-end brands that underscore their status and style.

Rihanna's love for Louboutin heels and Victoria Beckham's affinity for her own eponymous brand highlight their refined taste and influence in the fashion world.

Flashy Shoes

We’re talking Nikki Minaj and Lady Gaga levels of flashy here. More extravagant from our current campy shoe fashion trend, these kinds of shoes show that the owner wears their heart on their sleeve.

To say that people who wear flashy shoes are extroverted is an understatement. Naturally, these people don’t mind being the center of attention. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that they crave it.

Instead, all it means is that the person is self-assured and secure with themselves.

Vintage and Unique Shoes

Vintage and unique shoes, such as retro sneakers and custom-made shoes, reflect a strong sense of individuality, a nostalgic nature, and a love for uniqueness and history. These choices go beyond mainstream fashion, signaling a preference for personal expression and often a connection to the past.

Limited Edition Shoes

Everyone wants to own limited edition shoes. But only some people have the resolve to actually go through with it.

According to Dr. Paul Marsden, a consumer psychologist, owning limited edition items is often associated with a desire for uniqueness and a sense of accomplishment. This aligns with findings that individuals who pursue exclusive items tend to be more open to new experiences and enjoy standing out from the crowd​.

Versatility is one of the main character traits of people who flaunt limited edition shoes. They do not want to restrict themself to one fashion trend. Instead, they like to seize opportunities as they come.

Hence, these people are also frequent risk-takers and adventurers.

Old And Well-Kept Shoes

People who hold on to old shoes and are somehow able to make them last for years are known to be very conscientious. If they are willing and able to maintain their shoes for so long, imagine what else they are capable of?

Their religious dedication to their favorite shoes’ upkeep also shows that these people will always do their job thoroughly, to completion. Sure, they might not be a jack of all trades, but they’re pretty good at what they do.

Keeping old and well-maintained shoes reflects high conscientiousness and responsibility. People who maintain their possessions tend to exhibit high levels of responsibility and reliability in other areas of their lives.

Research supports the notion that conscientious individuals are more likely to care for their belongings, reflecting their overall responsibility and meticulous nature. Thus, attachment to possessions can reflect broader personality traits such as responsibility and reliability.

Thrifted Shoes

Wearing thrifted shoes indicates a resourceful and creative personality. According to fashion psychologist Dr. Carolyn Mair, individuals who prefer thrifted items often demonstrate a blend of creativity, practicality, and environmental consciousness.

Pre-loved or thrifted shoes can be branded or non-branded, flashy or modest, and comfortable or over-the-top. But the one thing that remains consistent is the statement they make.

If you like to give old shoes a new chance at life, you’re definitely more patient than the average Joe. Additionally, you can also exhibit a lot of self-restraint and often have a strong resolve.

Moreover, you’re bound to be at least a little crafty and handy so that you can breathe some life into your newest thrift find.

The popularity of thrifted shoes is rising in various cultures, reflecting broader societal shifts towards sustainability and ethical consumption.

In Western cultures, thrifting has become a fashionable and eco-friendly choice, often associated with millennials and Gen Z, who value sustainability and uniqueness. In contrast, in many Asian cultures, thrift shopping is seen as a practical way to find unique fashion pieces and save money.

Whether you want to admit it or not, we all put a lot of thought into the shoes we choose to wear. Considerations like comfort, style, and practicality cross our minds at least once.

For example, if you have a lot of errands to run on a particularly hot day, you will probably put on knit sneakers.

Over time, these considerations become habitual— a personality trait. That is, we can work backward and gauge a person’s personality through their shoes alone.

 

Embrace Your Adventurous Spirit, Step into Loom Shoes and be ready for any adventure.

What Do Most Popular Shoes Say About You?

Today, some shoes are so deeply integrated into the fashion world that you immediately get to know what they mean.

 

• Air Force 1s: AF1s are the most popular choice of shoes among teenagers today. While they’ve been around for decades, they have become somewhat of a cultural icon. Therefore, people who flaunt these timeless classics are perceived as voguish, sociable, and cultured.
• Jordan 1 Highs: People who sport Jordans 1s exhibit similar personality traits to those who wear AF1s. The only distinction is that the former ones are most definitely basketball fans.
• Converse: Converse is a staple in the footwear world— some would say it’s archaic. In a similar vein, people who wear these shoes like to stick to the tried and tested classics. Since these shoes are easy to style and hassle-free to maintain, the people who wear them often have fast-paced and chaotic lives.
• New Balance: These thick-soled, clunky, lace-up shoes are infamous for being “dad shoes.” Therefore, people who wear New Balance shoes are often perceived as boomers or old souls.

What Do Your Shoes Say About Your Relationships?

 

According to the same study published in 2012, your shoes can do more than just reveal your personality. In fact, your choice of footwear can say a lot about your relationships and attachment styles as well.

Generally, wearing neutral-colored shoes suggests that the person is anxious, flurried, and insecure in their relationships. Hence, they tend to channel that same insecurity and reservation into their choice of bold footwear.

On the other hand, people who feel secure in their relationships tend to go for more flashy, campy, and bold shoes. Moreover, they are also open to stepping out of their comfort zones and experimenting with limited-edition, thrifted, and branded shoes.

Lastly, avoidant partners can be identified through their preference of non-statement, off-brand shoes. The reason for this, it seems, is that avoidant partners are aloof in most aspects of their life. Therefore, they must be unbothered by the shoes they wear, too.

Fashion Integration: Enhancing Personal Style and Confidence with Shoe Choices

By thoughtfully selecting and integrating different shoe styles into your daily outfits, you can express your personality, enhance your style, and boost your confidence.

Whether you're aiming for a classic, casual, bold, sophisticated, or laid-back look, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference.

Here are some tips on how to seamlessly incorporate different types of footwear into your wardrobe.

Classic Elegance with Dress Shoes

Dress shoes, such as oxfords and loafers, are perfect for creating a polished and professional look. Pair them with tailored suits or dress pants for formal occasions. Dress shoes can be worn with dark jeans and a blazer for a more casual yet sophisticated style.

Style Tip: Choose neutral colors like black or brown for versatility or a bold color to make a statement.

Casual Comfort with Sneakers

Sneakers are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down. Pair them with jeans, shorts, or even dresses for a casual and comfortable look. For a sporty chic style, wear sneakers with athleisure outfits.

Style Tip: White sneakers are a timeless choice that goes with almost anything, while colorful or patterned sneakers can add fun to your outfit.

Bold Statements with High Heels

High heels can instantly elevate any outfit, adding a touch of elegance and confidence. Wear them with dresses or skirts for formal events or jeans and a stylish top for a night out.

Celebrity Inspiration: Jennifer Lopez frequently incorporates high heels into her outfits, showcasing how they can enhance both casual and glamorous looks.

Sophisticated Style with Boots

Boots are perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to your wardrobe. Ankle boots can be paired with jeans, skirts, or dresses, while knee-high boots look great with leggings or skinny jeans.

Style Tip: Choose boots with unique details like buckles or embroidery to add an extra style element to your outfit.

Laid-Back Vibes with Sandals

Sandals are ideal for warm weather and can be dressed up or down. Pair them with shorts, summer dresses, or casual jeans for a relaxed look.

Style Tip: Opt for sandals with metallic accents or embellishments to add a touch of glam to your casual outfits.

Choosing Shoes to Reflect Desired Traits

Selecting the right shoes can help project specific personality traits and make a desired impression. You can effectively project your desired traits and make a lasting impression by choosing the right shoes.

Whether aiming for professionalism, creativity, a relaxed vibe, or a status symbol, the right footwear can speak volumes about your personality. Here are some actionable tips for choosing footwear that aligns with the traits you wish to convey.

Professionalism and Ambition

Opt for classic, well-crafted dress shoes or oxfords to project professionalism and ambition. These shoes denote reliability, confidence, and a preference for structure and order.

Former President Barack Obama is often seen wearing sleek, polished oxfords, reflecting his professionalism and ambitious nature. Similarly, actress Meghan Markle often chooses elegant heels, projecting confidence and a sophisticated style.

Creativity and Individuality

Retro sneakers or custom-made shoes are ideal for showcasing creativity and individuality. These choices highlight a unique personality and a love for artistic expression.

Rapper and fashion icon Kanye West often wears custom-designed sneakers from his Yeezy line, which reflect his creative genius and distinct personal style.

Relaxed and Easy-Going

If you want to appear relaxed and easy-going, casual shoes like loafers or sandals are perfect. These shoes suggest a laid-back attitude and a preference for comfort and simplicity.

Actor Matthew McConaughey is frequently spotted in comfortable loafers or sandals, embodying his easy-going, relaxed persona.

Status and Exclusivity

To convey status and exclusivity, choose high-end designer shoes like Louboutin, Gucci, and Jimmy Choo, which are synonymous with luxury and sophistication.

Jennifer Lopez's single "Louboutins" highlights this, with visual imagery and album art featuring the iconic red-bottom heels. This footwear choice reflects a high-fashion taste and a desire to project a powerful and exclusive image.

Pop culture uses the luxury footwear brand as a metaphor for female empowerment, focusing on women leaving bad relationships with their heads held high.

Shoe Care Tips

Maintaining different types of shoes extends their lifespan and reflects traits like conscientiousness and attention to detail.

Proper shoe care demonstrates a responsible and meticulous personality. Here are some tips for keeping your footwear in top condition.

Leather Shoes

Caring for leather shoes shows a high level of conscientiousness and a keen attention to detail. It indicates a person who values quality and takes pride in their appearance.

Leather shoes require regular cleaning and conditioning to maintain their appearance and durability.

Use a soft brush to remove dirt, and apply a quality leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Polishing them regularly with a suitable polish can also enhance their shine and prolong their life.

Suede Shoes

Maintaining suede shoes suggests meticulousness and a careful nature. It reflects a person who pays attention to their environment and makes thoughtful decisions about their attire.

Suede shoes are delicate and need special care. Use a suede brush to remove dirt and a suede eraser for stains. Using a suede protector spray is important to guard against water damage and stains. Avoid wearing suede shoes in wet conditions to preserve their texture.

Athletic Shoes

Keeping athletic shoes clean and well-maintained shows an active and organized personality. It indicates someone who values health and cleanliness and pays attention to detail.

Athletic shoes can be washed gently by hand with mild soap and water. Remove insoles and laces before cleaning and allow them to air dry completely. Regular cleaning helps prevent odor and maintains the material's integrity.

High-End Designer Shoes

Caring for expensive designer shoes reflects a person who values luxury and exclusivity. It demonstrates a high level of responsibility and a desire to maintain the best condition of valuable possessions.

For high-end designer shoes, storing them properly in dust bags and using shoe trees to maintain their shape is essential. Clean them with appropriate products specific to the material (leather, suede, etc.) and avoid exposing them to harsh conditions.

Conclusion

They say you should never judge a book by its cover. But the same rule doesn’t extend to shoes, according to research, whether it’s age, gender, nationality, personality, or attachment styles.

As it turns out, you can accurately tell a lot about a person from the shoes that they wear.

Of course, these rules aren’t hard-and-fast. After all, people can always surprise you; those who wear knit sneakers could be deceptively chaotic, or those who wear expensive shoes might be financially irresponsible.

For the most part, though, it would appear that shoes— not eyes— are the window to the soul.