Fall Shoes You Need To Check Out
Say goodbye to boring fall shoes. While there’s nothing wrong with the classic ankle boot, sometimes your fall wardrobe could use a bit more spirit and experimentation. As a transitional season, fall offers an opportunity to venture away from that pair of brown boots; sandals can be worn during mild Octobers, and socks can be paired with slip-on shoes for crisper mornings. Both gemstone colors like emerald and bold red or neutral pallets pair well with fall garments. Read on for the fall shoes most likely to shape 2022.
An Overview of the Trends
Though Y2K styles gained popularity in 2020, with Ugg Boots even making a brief stint, the 90s are fashion’s latest obsession. From Cher and Dionne’s Mary Jane pumps in Clueless to Rachel’s knee-high boots in Friends, the hours Gen-Z spent in quarantine watching these 90s classics may have contributed to the decade’s resurgence.
But Y2K trends still remain in the mix. Platform shoes that reach new heights are as coveted as they were in the early 2000s. Bright, whimsical colors often pair with these shoes–a bubble gum pink platform sandal, for example, could be worn to a Sunday brunch. But as with all cycling trends, the 2022 version of the 90s and Y2K shoes have been modified with a modern twist.
The Loafer
Perhaps the trendiest shoe on this list, loafers have been spotted on countless celebrities from Hailey Bieber to Bella Hadid. Once the clunky shoe worn by Moms attending corporate dinner, the loafer has evolved into an edgy-meets-preppy closet staple.
While many elect a dark brown penny loafer, these fall shoes are just as customizable as sneakers. A horse bit loafer (basically a loafer with a gold or silver bar across the strap) in patent leather could add an elegant touch to any outfit.
Another bonus of loafers is how easy they are to pull on in the morning. Without any laces or zippers, loafers save you the minutes of untying and retying your boots when you’re already late for work. Plus, though there are several heeled varieties of loafers, many look just as sophisticated as flats.
For a casual fall outfit, pair loafers with short crew socks and mid-length shorts so the contrast between the shoes and socks does not get lost. Add a sweater and any outwear (maybe a patterned blazer) to build layers. For a more formal outfit, pair loafers with a sweater dress and stockings.
Check out these Jeffrey Campbell white platform loafers here for $132 USD.
Oxfords
People often label Oxfords as business formal shoes or only for those firmly invested in the academia aesthetic. However, Oxfords are like loafers’ lace-up cousin. While they do not have loafers’ slip-on ease, the closed-lace detailing can partner with more outfits than you could imagine.
Try pairing Oxfords with a black leather jacket, black mini skirt and colored button-down for an edgy look. Oxfords can also add a preppy element to sundresses or pleated skirts.
For vegan red Oxfords, take a look at this pair by Dr. Martens that retails for $130 USD.
The Mule
No, we’re not talking about the cocktail. Though they come in a variety of styles, mules generally fall into the backless, closed-toe shoe category. Kind of like the grown-up ballet flat, mules can be flats or heels, synthetic or suede and have pointed or rounded toes.
The first time I considered buying a pair of Steve Madden mules, I initially had doubts. I tend to gravitate toward boots with a high heel, and I could not imagine myself incorporating mules into many outfits. But the number of times I slipped on the shoes before a dinner or paired them easily with maxi skirts honestly surprised me.
One of the best features of mules is the number of colors they come in. A lime green mule could add a pop of color to a sweltering September outfit and a burgundy mule could pair with October hues. Try adding mules to a slip dress for a touch of sophistication.
Colorful Sneakers
Bored of white Nike Air Force Ones? Opt for a more colorful shoe with color-block or monochromatic sneakers. Choosing sneakers that pair up complementary colors, such as blue and flaming orange, make the shoes the focal point of an outfit, as the contrast between the hues is eye-catching. Conversely, sneakers with details completely in one color (perhaps a hot pink) make more of a statement than the monochromatic white sneakers many have in their closet. Colorful sneakers can be worn in chunky or flat varieties and trendy or timeless styles.
For a casual outfit that celebrates colorful sneakers, pair a little black dress with a neon color-block sneaker.
The Knee-High Boot
Fall boots may never retire, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick with the standard brown ankle boot. Black knee-high boots can go well with any garment–from mini skirts and stockings to straight-leg jeans. Or, be bold with a red leather boot that can bring an autumnal twist to a button-down and pants pairing.
One of the best examples of how to wear knee-high boots was the outfit Rihanna sported at the Dior Fall 2022 Show. Featuring heeled, black patent leather knee-high boots, Rihanna wore a sheer black dress with layered necklaces and a leather jacket pulled below her shoulders.
The Highest Platforms
Say hello to platforms, the fall shoes trend you will see everywhere. With platform flip-flops, sandals, sneakers, heels and boots, there are endless outfit possibilities for this accessory. In a recent interview with Jimmy Fallon, Emma Chamberlain soared into the Tonight Show with black platform boots and inspired many to try the trend themselves.
Adding a colored platform heel to a fall dress will make your outfit look more effortful than it actually is. And for those who like loafers’ sleekness but are looking for more height, try a platform loafer.
