Fall means cooling weather, so it’s time to put your open-toe sandals in the back of your shoe closet. But don’t worry—there are some fantastic fall shoe and boot trends for the new season. From the rugged appeal of combat boots to the preppy charm of heeled loafers and the classic elegance of pumps, below, we bring you a guide to our favorite must-have shoes to update your fall wardrobe.
Fall shoe trends for 2024
Combat and biker boots
Combat or biker boots are the perfect choice to keep you warm while also adding a bit of an edge to your outfit. They toughen up your look while being practical and also more versatile than you might think. You can pair them with your summer dresses and add a leather jacket, or pair them with jeans and sweaters when it gets even colder.
Heeled loafers
Loafers and brogues take their inspiration from menswear. But this season, the most on-trend loafers have a heel. This combines a timeless trend with some added height if you want to look taller some days. These shoes are perfect for the office and after hours if you go for dinner. If you usually wear pumps, heeled loafers are a great alternative. Pair with tailored trousers or jeans.
Burberry – Gucci – Louis Vuitton
Square toes
Square toes were very much on trend in the 1990s and 2000s, so you may already have some in the back of your closet. By choosing a square-toe style, you can update any type of shoe, from boots to heels or flats. If you want to make a statement and ensure everyone notices your shoes, choose a bold color.
Loewe – Saint Laurent – Louis Vuitton
Thigh-high boots
Okay, these aren’t for everyone, and we aren’t suggesting that you wear your thigh-high boots like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. But thigh-high boots can look very chic and sophisticated. Choose beautiful, natural materials like leather or suede – suede adds lovely texture to your outfit for fall. Wear over your skinny jeans, or wear with a midi or maxi dress. Choose a dress that has a slit in the thigh so you can see your boots.
Mules
Mules have an effortless elegance and an old money feel, and they’re particularly on trend now. From flat mules to heeled versions, they’re all on trend, so choose the height you like most. Just be sure your mules fit well; they don’t offer as much support as shoes with ankle straps.
Saint Laurent – Prada – Valentino
Pointed toes
We’ve already shown you square toes. But if they aren’t for you, don’t worry—pointed toes are also very much on trend. The great thing about pointed toes is that even if you choose a flat pair, they can give a leg-lengthening effect. Perfect for work, evening events, and just dressing up your jeans.
Simone Rocha – Erdem – Ferragamo
Fluffy shoes
Add a playful touch to your outfit with a pair of fluffy shoes. Just be sure that the fluff won’t drag on the ground and get dirty. Fluffy shoes are perfect for adding a bit of whimsy to your evening look—pair them with more structured pieces like tailored pants. Or, for a casual look, look for boots that are lined with shearling or that have faux fur details.
Christian Dior – Loewe – Bottega Veneta
Floral prints
Florals aren’t just for spring. Floral prints are a big trend for fall clothing and a great choice for your shoes. Adding florals to your shoe collection can update an otherwise plain outfit. Pair floral shoes with neutral tones to let them stand out.
Cecilie Bahnsen – Loewe – Erdem
Pumps
Pumps are a perennial favorite because they offer versatility and elegance that will never go out of style. Choose block heels rather than stilettos if you want to be more comfortable. Opt for a simple black pump or a bold color print. You can pair pumps with everything from jeans to dresses.
Fall trends are all about mixing classics with modern twists and unexpected details. You could, for example, pair your combat boots with a floaty summer dress or wear your floral pumps with your favorite jeans. Think about pairing the new styles of shoes with the clothes in your closet.
Christian Dior – Stella McCartney – Christian Dior
Continue reading:
- Fall winter 2024 fashion trends – and how to wear them
- Colors to wear in Fall 2024: all the color trends you need to know
- Embrace the chill with these Coats for Fall 2024
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Images from Vogue
Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.
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