The fashion world's latest fixation isn't a color, a fabric, or a hemline—it's the hallux, better known as the big toe. At the 2027 Copenhagen Fashion Week, the once-niche trend of shoes that single out the big toe has solidified its place in mainstream style, appearing on runways and streets in a variety of forms. Main Developments Copenhagen's spring 2027 shows were a showcase for the big toe's versatility. From ankle-strap pumps to high heels, split-toe designs were among the most popular street style choices outside the fashion shows, indicating a shift from occasional runway novelty to everyday wardrobe staple. One of the most prominent iterations is the Tabi split-toe, which separates the big toe from the other four, encasing it in its own space. Once dismissed as ugly, the Tabi has become a stylish alternative to traditional ballerina flats, thanks largely to the popularity of Margiela's Tabi flats. Read also: Bangladesh Garment Output Slashed by Energy Crisis, Trade Feuds The trend extends beyond high fashion. Nike's Air Rift sneakers, featuring a split-toe design, have been among the most popular shoes this summer. This year, the Air Rift received an update as the first Nike Skims sneaker, introducing the silhouette to a new audience with styles in satin, breathable mesh, and pastel and neutral colors. Sandals and dress shoes are also joining the movement. Havaianas unveiled a kitten heel flip-flop on the Studio Constance spring 2027 runway, reinterpreting its signature toe-post with a distinctive toe cap that conceals only the big toe. Tory Burch's Multi-Buckle Monk Strap shoe slices away half the upper, leaving four smaller toes exposed while keeping the big toe covered. Background The big toe's prominence in footwear is not entirely new. For years, shoes that single out the toe have intermittently appeared on runways, but the recent surge in popularity marks a turning point. The Tabi design, originally popularized by Margiela, has been a cult favorite for decades, yet only now is it achieving mainstream reach. The trend has also found a foothold in the sneaker world with Nike's Air Rift, which has been a niche favorite since its debut. The collaboration with Skims this year signals a broader acceptance of the split-toe aesthetic. Why It Matters The big toe's role in walking is crucial—it bears weight and aids forward movement. While the long-term effects of split-toe shoes on foot health remain unclear, the design is intended to allow for greater toe splay and ground feel, which could have implications for comfort and posture. The trend's mainstream appeal is evident in its adoption by fast-fashion brands like Zara and Mango, as well as luxury labels such as Giuseppe Zanotti and Miu Miu. This wide range of availability makes the style accessible to a broad audience, potentially reshaping footwear trends for seasons to come. What's Next As the big toe fixation continues to grow, consumers can expect to see more innovative designs that play with toe exposure and coverage. The success of the Nike Skims Air Rift and Havaianas' kitten heel suggests that brands are willing to experiment with traditional silhouettes. Whether the trend will persist or fade remains an open question, but for now, the big toe is undeniably having its moment in the fashion spotlight.