From Disney Darling to Style Icon: Selena Gomez’s Shoe Evolution from Flats to Fierce Heels

Please subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates from Your Next Shoes. This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more details.

Selena Gomez, who first captured hearts as a teenage star, has spent years evolving—both personally and stylistically. Even during her quieter moments away from the spotlight, her fashion sense never dimmed; instead, it grew more assured, refined, and quietly confident.

She began her hiatus favoring effortless staples like comfy flats and clunky boots, pieces that mirrored her down-to-earth sensibility at the time. But as her career and perspective matured, so did her wardrobe—her growing preference for statement heels signaled a return to form and a renewed embrace of glamour that would soon define her next chapter.

Selena Gomez steps out in Beverly Hills on February 20, 2014, effortlessly pairing a floral jumpsuit with a black leather biker jacket, platform pumps, and bold aviators for a chic, edgy lookSelena Gomez steps out in Beverly Hills on February 20, 2014, effortlessly pairing a floral jumpsuit with a black leather biker jacket, platform pumps, and bold aviators for a chic, edgy look (Credit: WENN)

A Disney Breakout: How Selena Gomez Rose to Fame

In “Wizards of Waverly Place” (2007–2012), Selena Gomez first captured attention as Alex Russo, a quick-witted teen witch whose rebellious wardrobe perfectly mirrored her mischievous personality.

Her on-screen style was distinctly late-2000s, filled with layered tops, statement accessories, and, of course, footwear that leaned casual and edgy.

From slouchy suede boots to bright Converse sneakers, Alex’s shoe choices became a defining part of her character’s charm and a snapshot of early-2010s teen-trend culture. Here are some of the most iconic and recurring shoe styles she wore on the show:

At just 15, Selena Gomez began her rise to fame in 2007 as Alex Russo on Disney Channel’s “Wizards of Waverly Place,” showcasing her signature teen style with cropped pants, playful accessories, and printed Converse sneakersAt just 15, Selena Gomez began her rise to fame in 2007 as Alex Russo on Disney Channel’s “Wizards of Waverly Place,” showcasing her signature teen style with cropped pants, playful accessories, and printed Converse sneakers (Credit: Disney-ABC Domestic Television)

She continued to act in other Disney Channel shows and movies and later transitioned to a successful career as a musician and producer.

Today, she is regarded as one of the most talented and successful young performers in the entertainment world.

A Throwback to 2014: Selena Rocks Zara Platform Heels

Selena Gomez steps out in Beverly Hills on February 20, 2014, pairing a relaxed floral jumpsuit with a black leather biker jacket, oversized bag, and platform pumps that elevate her off-duty look with effortless edgeSelena Gomez steps out in Beverly Hills on February 20, 2014, pairing a relaxed floral jumpsuit with a black leather biker jacket, oversized bag, and platform pumps that elevate her off-duty look with effortless edge (Credit: WENN)

In February 2014, Selena was out and about in a comfy-looking floral jumpsuit. Still, whatever laidback vibe her one-piece had was immediately negated by the fierce d’Orsay stilettos that she paired with it.

The Princess Protection Program actress upped the edgy vibe by adding a leather biker jacket, tough-chic aviators, and thick metal bracelet cuffs to her ensemble.

She carried a black leather bag and held a fast-food cup. It’s been a while since we last saw pumps with island platforms, so it’s nice seeing Selena break them out again. Remember when the island platform was still a budding trend?

Selena Gomez showcases her chic style in black Zara platform heels, effortlessly elevating her laidback floral jumpsuit with a touch of timeless sophisticationSelena Gomez showcases her chic style in black Zara platform heels, effortlessly elevating her laidback floral jumpsuit with a touch of timeless sophistication

While Charlotte Olympia’s “Dolly” pumps started the whole fad, Selena’s version from Zara features lower recessed platforms and a trendy d’Orsay cut.
Selena’s faux suede platform pumps are from a 2012 Zara collection.

Selena’s Love for Zara: Affordable Style with Star Power

​Selena Gomez has been spotted wearing Zara footwear on multiple occasions, showcasing her appreciation for the brand’s stylish offerings. For instance, in May 2012, she attended a Memorial Day party in Malibu wearing a trendy grey maxi dress paired with Zara laminated chain sandals.

Zara Cutout Faux Suede d'Orsay Platform PumpsZara Cutout Faux Suede d’Orsay Platform Pumps

More Moments Worth Revisiting

From one-off street snapshots to red-carpet gems, we’ve tracked how Selena Gomez’s footwear choices have told a longer story—of growth, intentional elevation and pure style momentum. Dive into some of her most defining shoe-and-fashion moments below.

👠 Explore Selena Gomez’s Best Shoe & Fashion Moments: